The Romanian Ministry of Investments and European Projects (MIPE) has recently announced new extensions for the PNRR digitalization grants aimed at supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in adopting digital technologies. These grants, offering up to 100,000 EUR per project, are part of Romania’s National Recovery and Resilience Plan (PNRR) and are designed to boost the digital transformation of non-IT businesses across the country.
Key Updates as of June 2026
1. Extended Payment Deadline
The deadline for paying the grants has been extended to October 30, 2026, according to Ordinul MIPE 963/2026. This applies to the 20,000–100,000 EUR grants for SME digitalization projects, ensuring that businesses have more time to access the allocated funds within the budget limits of the de minimis aid scheme.
2. Project Implementation Deadline
The maximum implementation period for these projects has also been extended to July 31, 2026. However, SMEs that need additional time must submit a formal request for extension before their initial deadline expires. Requests submitted after the original implementation period will not be considered.
3. Flexibility for Justified Delays
If unforeseen circumstances (beyond the beneficiary’s control) prevent the authorization or payment of transfer requests during the implementation period, SMEs may still pay eligible expenses to suppliers after the project’s official end date—but no later than July 31, 2026startupcafe.ro.
Why This Matters
These extensions provide much-needed flexibility for Romanian SMEs, many of which have faced delays due to administrative or procedural challenges. The PNRR digitalization grants are a critical tool for modernizing businesses, improving competitiveness, and aligning with EU digital transformation goals.
For SMEs: If your project is at risk of missing the original deadline, act now to submit an extension request. Ensure all documentation aligns with the updated guidelines to avoid losing access to these funds.
