Applicants from Romanian business startups can submit their proposals for the EBRD's Star Venture program
EBRD's Star Venture Programme Opens Applications for Romanian Startups
The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) has announced the opening of applications for its Star Venture programme in Romania. This initiative, active in 26 countries, aims to support early-stage, innovative startups operating within high-tech sectors such as AI.
The programme offers a wide range of tailored support for 24 months, including expert mentoring, business advice, intensive workshops, and access to a global network of investors and partners.
Startups selected for the programme can expect to receive benefits such as:
- Access to over 1,500 expert mentors via the Dosen platform.
- Tailored workshops addressing startup needs.
- Facilitated connections with global investors and partners.
- Assistance with investor readiness and strategic advice.
- Support in scaling and expanding into new markets, especially in Europe.
- Opportunities to raise substantial funding, with participating startups collectively raising over €573 million since the programme’s launch.
- Tailored ecosystem strengthening focused on local challenges in Romania.
The programme also provides up to EUR 40,000 in grants for business advisory services. Five finalists will be selected to join the programme, with approximately 10 startups shortlisted to pitch their business ideas at an in-person event in Bucharest on April 8.
To be eligible, startups must be privately and locally owned, registered within the past 10 years, and generating annual revenues under EUR 1 million. They should have products or services that can drive economic transformation and create sustainable growth.
The Star Venture programme in Romania is funded by the EBRD Small Business Impact Fund and the TaiwanBusiness-EBRD Technical Cooperation Fund. Startups can apply for the programme by March 16.
The programme also offers fundraising support and opportunities to meet potential partners at conferences and trade shows. Selected startups will benefit from strategy workshops, including online sessions with Cambridge University. Startups will receive business advice from local and international consultants across key areas such as marketing, operations, technology, and certification.
Over 550 early-stage companies have already benefited from the Star Venture programme's services. The programme includes workshops, mentoring, and various growth opportunities, making it an ideal choice for high-potential startups seeking comprehensive resources for growth.
[1] EBRD's Star Venture Programme
[2] EBRD's Small Business Impact Fund
- The EBRD's Star Venture Programme, which is open for applications by Romanian startups, offers a comprehensive 24-month support system that includes access to technology-focused resources, such as tailored workshops, mentoring from over 1,500 experts, and opportunities to meet global investors.
- The EBRD's Small Business Impact Fund, one of the external funds supporting the Star Venture Programme, aims to provide resources for education and self-development, offering grants for business advisory services to startups that qualify for the programme.
