The Fund of Funds is launching selection procedures for financial intermediaries under two financial instruments financed by the Education Programme 2021–2027, co-funded by the European Union through the European Social Fund Plus. The instruments are aimed at encouraging entrepreneurial activity among students and PhD candidates, to support the transition from education to employment through the implementation of innovative ideas and business ventures.
"Fund for Startups by Students and PhD Candidates" provides equity and quasi-equity financing in support of young entrepreneurs, with a budget of nearly BGN 23.1 million.
"Microfinancing for entrepreneurial of Students and PhD Candidates" instrument will provide access to debt financing under facilitated conditions, with a budget of nearly BGN 7.9 million.
The instruments aim to stimulate the creation and development of start-ups established by students and PhD candidates, or other types of entrepreneurial initiatives, by enhancing the connection between education, science and business and developing students’ entrepreneurial skills based on the "learning by doing" principle.
Through these procedures, the Fund of Funds aims to select financial intermediaries who will provide accessible support to start-up enterprises, thereby contributing to the development of the start-up ecosystem and increasing entrepreneurial activity in Bulgaria.
The deadline for submission of applications under each of the intermediary selection procedures is 3 September 2025.
Links to the respective documentation and application requirements can be found here:
Fund for Startups by Students and PhD Candidates
Microfinancing for entrepreneurial of Students and PhD Candidates
