Purpose of financing
The “Start-up Subsidies” financial line offers grants to encourage the establishment and start-up of start-up companies younger than 14 months. This is a key support for young companies that are just embarking on their entrepreneurial path and are particularly vulnerable in the market at this stage. An analysis of market gaps has shown that these companies are the ones that urgently need adequate funding to stabilize and survive in the first months of operation.
In addition to starting companies, financing also supports the development and successful transfer of development ideas into marketable products, processes or services. The aim of the financial line is to create new companies with the potential for further growth, with a special emphasis on innovation, commercialization and market penetration.
Key characteristics
Simple and fast procedure for obtaining a start-up subsidy
1
Publication of a public tender
Public calls for start-up companies are published on the SEF website and in the Official Gazette of the Republic of Slovenia. A company wishing to obtain a start-up subsidy must first familiarise itself with the terms and conditions of application, which are set out in the tender documentation available on the SEF website.
2
Participation in start-up training
Some tenders also include practical exercises where companies check the quality of their innovative business idea. If necessary, they can upgrade it to increase the chances of successfully obtaining funds.
3
Simple and fast digital preparation and submission of the application
The application is prepared via the ePortal, where the entrepreneur fills out the application form for the appropriate tender. The applicant must complete the application in accordance with the instructions, which are clearly described in the application form.
4
Application processing and issuance of a decision
SEF reviews the application. If the application is incomplete, the applicant will be invited to complete it. All complete applications that meet the tender conditions will be approved and financed within the limits of the funds available. SEF will then send the company a decision approving the subsidy.
5
Signing of the contract with SEF
Following the approval of the application, SEF and the company conclude a co-financing agreement. The contract is signed with a qualified digital certificate for business entities. At the time of signing the contract, the company must have at least one full-time employee.
6
Signing a contract with a mentor
Start-up companies must work with a mentor to develop their business idea. The company can choose a mentor from the list of mentors available on the SEF website.
7
Reporting on results
During a period of three years, the company must report on its activities to SEF in order to monitor the progress and effectiveness of the use of the funds allocated.
This process enables entrepreneurs to easily and quickly obtain a start-up subsidy and support in the successful development of their business idea.