Bulgarian Businesses Call for Faster EU Funding to Overcome Crisis

Members of the National Council of the Bulgarian Industrial Capital Association (BICA) met with Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Innovation and Growth Tomislav Donchev to discuss accelerating EU funding, the National Recovery and Resilience Plan, and improving business conditions, CE Report quotes BTA

BICA Chairman Vasil Velev highlighted the ongoing industrial crisis, noting that production in January 2025 had dropped to 90% of 2021 levels. He cited high energy costs, sanctions, labor shortages, and administrative burdens as key challenges. Velev stressed that European funding is crucial for recovery and investment.

Deputy Prime Minister Donchev acknowledged that state support for modernization and infrastructure remains insufficient. He revealed that Bulgaria has lost BGN 320 million in EU funding and that payments under operational programs and the Recovery and Resilience Plan remain low. However, he expressed optimism about improving fund distribution, with a focus on digitalization, innovation, and energy efficiency.

Discussions also covered vocational education and workforce development. BICA emphasized the importance of aligning education with labor market needs, increasing interest in STEM fields, and fostering industry visibility. Donchev supported educational reforms and stronger collaboration between businesses and the state.

Other key topics included enhancing SME support, accelerating labor migration, fair competition, and minimum wage calculations. The meeting underscored the urgent need for coordinated efforts to boost Bulgaria’s economic recovery.