Active in Greek Tourism? Apply Now for NSRF Funds

Greek tourism sector professionals can now apply online at www.ependyseis.gr for EU subsidies, with the procedure running through to May 17.

The total available funds, part of National Strategic Reference Framework (NSRF) 2014-2020 program — also known as ESPA — to be allocated for tourism initiatives come to 70 million euros, up by 20 million euros, compared to the initial announcement, the Economy, Development and Tourism ministry said in a statement.

The funds are aimed at boosting tourism enterprises for the upcoming season. Expenditure incurred after February 11, 2016 are eligible for financing.

Applications can only be submitted online by new or existing micro- and small- and medium-sized tourism sector enterprises. The three keys areas of focus are startups, the upgrade of tourism infrastructure and facilities, and boosting employment opportunities for higher education graduates.

In the meantime, investment projects budgeted at 15,000-150,000 euros are subsidized with funds covering 40 percent of all eligible costs, and increasing by 10 percent to 50 percent should additional staff be hired.

In order to be eligible, tourism sector businesses should focus on the upgrade of building and other infrastructure, energy/water saving interventions, expanding products offered including accessibility for people with disabilities,  as well as ensuring infrastructure and service quality certification.

For more information in Greek, press here.