DYPA’s (Public Employment Service) new action to support new entrepreneurship allows unemployed people aged 18 to 29 to set up their own business with a grant of up to €17,500.
The €17,500 grant is significant support for starting a business.
The programme aims to promote self-employment and strengthen business activity, with particular emphasis on women’s entrepreneurship and on activities related to the digital and green economy.
According to the Joint Ministerial Decision (Gazette B’ 729/12-02-2026), the action covers a total of 2,114 new beneficiaries across Greece and is a significant opportunity for anyone who wants to start their own business with financial support.
📊 How much is the grant
The grant amounts to €17,500 and is paid in three instalments during the first 12 months of operation:
- €4,700 after the business starts
- €6,400 after the first six months
- €6,400 after the second six months
The grant period is 12 months from the business start date.
👤 Who the programme is for
The programme is for unemployed people aged 18–29 who are not in employment, education or training and want to set up a new small or medium-sized business.
Particular emphasis is given to:
- women’s entrepreneurship
- digital economy activities
- green economy activities
The action is implemented in all Regions of Greece.
✅ Key eligibility conditions
To join the programme you need:
- Registration in DYPA’s register of unemployed persons
- No employment and no participation in education or training
- The business must start after approval
- The business must operate for at least 12 months
🚫 Which activities are not eligible
Among others, the following are excluded:
- franchise activities
- short-term rental businesses
- delivery only
- seasonal businesses
- restarting the same activity
- businesses that took part in previous new-entrepreneur (NEE) programmes
Choosing the right activity code (KAD) is a key factor for successful approval.
📅 When applications are submitted
Applications for the first cycle open on:
📅 18 February 2026 at 13:00
📅 Closing on 18 March 2026 at 15:00
🧠 Why proper preparation matters
The programme has strict eligibility criteria and requires careful preparation of the file, the choice of activity and compliance with the conditions.
The right strategic approach significantly increases the chances of approval and prevents problems during implementation.
🟢 How Upgrade Solutions can help
The Upgrade Solutions team provides full support at every stage of the process:
- Eligibility check
- Strategic planning
- Preparing the application file
- Submitting the application
- Support during implementation
Our goal is successful approval and proper implementation of your investment.
📞 Contact us
If you are interested in joining the programme or would like us to assess your eligibility, contact our team for more information.
👉 It is time to upgrade your business.
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