Diaspora Invests Home: A New Financial Bridge
The Ministry of Finance has unveiled the Diaspora Invests Homeprogram, marking the first major funding scheme dedicated to Romanians abroad who wish to establish new companies in their home country. The program features a total budget of €100 million. Eligible beneficiaries can receive grants covering up to 60% of their investment loan, with a maximum grant value of €200,000 per applicant.
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Tap Global Appoints Moorwand to Issue New Multi-Currency MastercardInvestment loans available through this program range from €5,000 to €500,000. These funds will be distributed between 2026 and 2029 through the Romanian Investment Bank and the United Kingdom Development Fund. This initiative requires a 35% contribution to the Romanian capital, reflecting the government's commitment to fostering new business experiences and stimulating economic growth through the Romanian Development Fund.
Eligibility and Requirements for Applicants
The program is specifically designed for start-ups founded by Romanians in the diaspora who meet the criteria of the de minimis aid scheme. A primary requirement is that the majority of the company's share capital must be held by Romanian citizens who have resided abroad for at least 12 consecutive months within the last 18 months.
Furthermore, applicants must demonstrate at least one year of professional experience or relevant academic studies in the specific field for which they are requesting funding. To ensure long-term stability, beneficiaries are required to maintain their investment and shareholding structure for a minimum of three years following the completion of the project.
For the significant Romanian community based in the United Kingdom, this program acts as a vital bridge between the two markets. By leveraging the expertise and capital of the diaspora, the government hopes to revitalize the domestic business landscape and encourage a sustainable return of human and financial resources to Romania.
