The Digital Transformation of Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises program aims to bring Greek businesses one step closer to the digital era. By integrating digital technologies into their daily operations, companies can significantly improve efficiency and competitiveness. Through Program 1 – “Digital Tools for SMEs”, businesses can now receive subsidies to implement digital upgrades, including e-shop development — one of the most essential tools for growth.
Build Your E-shop with 90% Funding through FirstIdea
Entrepreneurs can now develop a modern, fully functional online store (e-shop) through FirstIdea, using a voucher that covers up to 90% of the total cost.
This gives your business a powerful competitive edge, helping you promote your products and services online, reach new audiences, and increase sales. Among all the digital solutions subsidized by this ESPA program, e-shop and website creation is the most crucial for small and medium-sized businesses that want to embrace e-commerce.
The growing demand for such digital tools highlights how more and more business owners recognize the value of online sales and the vast opportunities that come with offering products and services on the internet.
Subsidy Amounts
The subsidy covers 90% of the total cost, with the voucher amount depending on the business size (measured in full-time equivalent employees – FTE).
| Category | Business Size (FTE) | Voucher Value (Max) | Eligible Cost | Funding Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Category 1 | 0.01 < μ ≤ 5 | €900 | €1,000 | 90% |
| 5 < μ ≤ 10 | €1,800 | €2,000 | 90% | |
| Category 2 | 10 < μ ≤ 18 | €3,600 | €4,000 | 90% |
| 18 < μ ≤ 25 | €5,400 | €6,000 | 90% | |
| Category 3 | 25 < μ ≤ 32 | €9,000 | €10,000 | 90% |
| 32 < μ ≤ 40 | €10,800 | €12,000 | 90% | |
| Category 4 | 40 < μ ≤ 50 | €13,500 | €15,000 | 90% |
| 50 < μ ≤ 250 | €18,000 | €20,000 | 90% |
👉 For more details, please refer to the official Program Guide.
Who Is Eligible for Funding?
1. Businesses without an E-shop
Entrepreneurs who do not yet have an online store can now create a state-of-the-art, visually appealing, and fully functional e-shop.
This allows them to:
- Expand their customer base both geographically and demographically.
- Provide a better online experience and service to their existing clients.
FirstIdea will guide you step-by-step through the process — from design and development to launch — ensuring your new digital presence is built on strong foundations.
2. Businesses that already have an E-shop
Companies that already operate an online store can still benefit from the program by optimizing or reconstructing their current website.
Possible upgrades include:
- Improved user experience (UX/UI)
- Enhanced inventory and order management
- Advanced promotional tools (special offers, newsletters, data tracking)
- Integration of new features based on your sales strategy
Together, we can define a digital growth plan to help you increase conversions and overall performance.
Program Deadlines
- Application submission: Until Wednesday, September 14, 2022
- Voucher purchase completion: Until Wednesday, November 30, 2022
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for funding, your business must:
- Operate in a commercial sector with a registered base in Greece
- Have been founded before 01/01/2022
- Be active at the time of the funding application
FirstIdea stands ready to help your business navigate the process — from eligibility check to successful submission and implementation — ensuring you make the most of the “Digital Tools for SMEs” program and its e-commerce opportunities.
