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A new call launched by the European Union (EU) in Cuba aims to promote entrepreneurship in the eastern region of the country, offering up to $40,000 in material resources and equipment to micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (mipymes), non-agricultural cooperatives (CNA), and local development projects (PDL) in the agri-food sector.
The announcement of this initiative, which aims to strengthen the economic fabric, promote employment, and enhance the productive capabilities of new economic actors, comes amid ongoing criticisms of the EU for financing the Cuban regime.
The first regional call for the NAE (New Economic Actors) project was announced this Tuesday on the official page of the European Union on Facebook, and will be open from July 1 to July 31, 2025.
Interested parties must submit their proposals to the email convocatoriasnae2025@gmail.com with the subject "Application."
El monto de apoyo no se entregará en efectivo, sino a través de la entrega de herramientas, suministros y otros insumos especificados en el plan de trabajo presentado, apuntó la call.
The sustainability of the project, its social and local impact, the use of information and communication technologies (ICT), and the willingness of the beneficiaries to make an additional financial contribution will be highly valued.
To apply, businesses must be legally established and submit a file with documentation that includes: a feasibility study, legal certificate, sworn declaration of tax and criminal status, and evidence of inclusion practices or technological innovation.
In addition to the eastern region of the country, the program includes a total of nine calls, covering also the central and western regions, as well as three at the national level.
The prioritized sectors also include renewable energies, creative industries, and ICT, as detailed in the official project material.
The proposals will be evaluated by an independent technical committee, and the selection process should not exceed three months.
Audits and monitoring mechanisms are also anticipated following the delivery of support, an attempt to make EU financing to the regime more transparent.
In this regard, the High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security, Kaja Kallas, recently defended in the European Parliament the continuation of the political dialogue and cooperation with the Cuban regime, despite the reports of human rights violations and calls for its suspension.
Frequently asked questions about European Union funding for SMEs in Cuba
What type of support does the European Union offer to small and medium-sized enterprises in eastern Cuba?
The European Union offers up to 40,000 dollars in material resources and equipment to small and medium-sized enterprises, non-agricultural cooperatives, and local development projects in the agri-food sector of eastern Cuba. This support is not provided in cash, but in the form of tools, supplies, and other inputs specified in the submitted work plan.
What criteria will be considered when selecting the projects to be funded?
To select the funded projects, special consideration will be given to the sustainability of the project, its social and local impact, the use of information and communication technologies (ICT), as well as the willingness of the beneficiaries to make an additional financial contribution. Projects must be legally established and submit documentation that includes a feasibility study and evidence of practices promoting inclusion or technological innovation.
How can Cuban SMEs participate in this call from the European Union?
Interested SMEs must submit their proposals to the email address convocatoriasnae2025@gmail.com with the subject line "Application". The call for proposals will be open from July 1 to July 31, 2025. Projects will be evaluated by an independent technical committee, and the selection process should not exceed three months.
What other sectors and regions are included in the European Union's program in Cuba?
In addition to eastern Cuba, the European Union program includes a total of nine calls, also covering the center and west of the island, as well as three at the national level. The prioritized sectors include renewable energy, creative industries, and information and communication technologies (ICT).
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