The National Innovation Fund is developing active international partnerships with the aim of integrating the Bulgarian innovation ecosystem into the European and global research landscape, as well as ensuring access to additional sources of funding and expertise.

Innovation Beyond Borders

EUREKA Network – the world’s largest network of ministries and innovation agencies dedicated to supporting international research and development through participation in international projects:

- Eurostars is a Eureka program, part of the European Partnership on Innovative SMEs, which supports innovative small and medium-sized enterprises in carrying out international research and development projects. The program funds joint projects to develop new products, processes, and services with clear market potential. SMEs, large companies, universities, research organizations, and other partners can participate in the projects. Through Eurostars, Bulgarian companies have the opportunity to work with international partners, develop innovative solutions, and accelerate their path to market realization.

- Innowwide is a Eureka program that supports innovative small and medium-sized enterprises in exploring opportunities to bring their products, services, or technologies to international markets outside Europe. Through the program, companies can receive funding of up to €60,000 for six-month projects focused on market feasibility, preparation for internationalization, and collaboration with local partners in a selected target country. Innowwide supports SMEs in assessing market potential, the regulatory environment, technical requirements, and opportunities for future international cooperation. The program is part of the European Partnership on Innovative SMEs and is coordinated within the Eureka network.

- Eureka Investment Readiness is a program of the Eureka network that supports innovative startups and small and medium-sized enterprises in preparing to attract investment and expand internationally. Through the program, companies have the opportunity to present their solutions to international investors, corporate partners, and industry representatives, as well as to participate in online sessions, corporate challenges, and international business initiatives. Eureka Investment Readiness helps participants build partnerships, improve their investment readiness, and accelerate their path to market realization and growth.

- The "EIC Accelerator Fast Track" is a special application mechanism that provides eligible projects from the "Horizon Europe" and "Horizon 2020" programs with direct access to the full proposal submission stage under the "EIC Accelerator." The mechanism is designed for innovative companies with high growth potential and market viability that have already undergone evaluation or received support under other European programs. Through the Fast Track, companies can expedite their application to the EIC Accelerator and gain access to funding, mentoring, business support, and investors to develop and scale revolutionary innovations.

Through its international partnerships, the NIF supports the internationalization of innovative Bulgarian companies; creates opportunities for participation in joint projects with international partners; and contributes to positioning Bulgaria as an active participant in the European Innovation Area.