€2 Million for Innovation Development – Open Public Calls of the Innovation Fund of Montenegro

Four support programmes available to enterprises, startups, researchers, and educational institutions across Montenegro.

Podgorica, May 5, 2026 – With the aim of further strengthening the innovation ecosystem and fostering an innovation culture in Montenegro, the Innovation Fund of Montenegro has announced Public Calls for four support programmes, with a total budget of €2 million.

These programmes are designed for enterprises, startups, researchers, and educational institutions across Montenegro, supporting innovation development at all stages—from idea validation to product or service commercialisation.

Through these programmes, the Fund provides not only financial support, but also actively contributes to linking science and industry and building a functional innovation ecosystem where ideas can evolve into sustainable and competitive solutions.

The programmes enable beneficiaries to develop innovative ideas, enhance competitiveness, and contribute to the growth of Montenegro’s innovation community.

Available Support Programmes

1. Program for Strengthening the Innovation of newly established or existing Micro, Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises \

Total budget: €1,300,000
Grant amount: €50,000 – €200,000
This programme line fosters collaboration between MSMEs and research organisations, focusing on projects that support the development of new or improved products, services, technologies, or processes.

2. Programme for Supporting Early-Stage Startup Development

Total budget: €400,000
Grant amount: up to €35,000
Designed to strengthen the startup ecosystem in Montenegro, this programme supports the growth and development of teams, as well as existing and newly established startups developing market-driven solutions with high growth potential.

In addition to financial support, beneficiaries receive mentorship support, which is particularly valuable at this stage of development.

3. VEncouraging Innovation Culture Program

Total budget: €100,000
Grant amount: up to €8,000
This programme supports the organisation of events, competitions, and other activities aimed at promoting creativity, innovation, and the development of innovation culture.

4. Implementation of Educational Programs in Smart Specialization Areas

Total budget: €200,000
Grant amount: up to €10,000
This programme aims to contribute to increasing Montenegro’s competitiveness and building a knowledge- and innovation-based economy.

It supports the engagement of renowned professionals, scientists, innovators, and entrepreneurs from Montenegro and abroad, who will deliver structured training programmes (up to six months) to enhance the knowledge and skills of young people (students, pupils, young researchers, and professionals).

“Innovation emerges where knowledge, courage, and support come together. Our role is to make that support accessible and tangible. Through these programmes, we aim to support everyone developing new ideas—from researchers and startups to companies—in transforming their projects into sustainable solutions that can succeed in the market. In this way, we create new opportunities, strengthen competitiveness, and build a knowledge-based economy,” said Katarina Lalović, Acting Executive Director of the Innovation Fund of Montenegro.

Public Calls and application documentation are available on the Fund’s official website:
www.fondzainovacije.me

The Innovation Fund is also organising Info Days and online info sessions for potential applicants to provide detailed guidance on programme opportunities.