Romania’s government approved in its Thursday, August 6 meeting the decision to launch the program Diaspora Invests at Home, aimed at Romanians living abroad who want to set up businesses in the country.

The program has a total budget of EUR 100 million, with grants to be managed by the Development and Investment Bank (BID) on behalf of the Finance Ministry.

The grants can cover up to 60% of the investment loan, capped at EUR 200,000 per eligible beneficiary, the Finance Ministry explained.

The grants will be awarded between 2026 and 2029, subject to the available budget.

The investment loans intended to finance business capitalization can range from EUR 5,000 to EUR 500,000, with a maximum loan term of 10 years and a final maturity date no later than December 31, 2037.

The program is open to newly established companies whose share capital is majority-owned by Romanian citizens who have resided abroad for at least 12 consecutive months during the past 18 months. Applicants must provide evidence of at least one year of relevant professional experience or studies in the field for which funding is requested and must maintain the investment and ownership structure for at least three years after the completion of the project. Beneficiaries must also provide a minimum own contribution of 10% of the investment project's value, reduced to 5% for entrepreneurs younger than 35.

“With the mandate granted today, we are ensuring that the EUR 100 million in funds will be managed transparently and efficiently, reaching those who dare to start new businesses in Romania. In this way, we are offering Romanians in the diaspora not only an invitation to return, but also concrete financial support and a strong institutional partnership to bring back the experience, capital and professional skills they have acquired abroad,” Finance Minister Alexandru Nazare said.

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simona@romania-insider.com