Grant of up to €36,000 for new businesses set up by university graduates
On 30/04/2026 the ESPA programme “Xekino Epicheirimatika” (Starting a Business) was published — one of the most significant grant schemes for new entrepreneurs in recent years. It is open exclusively to graduates of higher education and funds the start-up or operation of a new business with no obligation to submit invoices.
The programme provides 100% funding — with no own contribution — for running a new business for 12 or 18 months, using lump-sum amounts and a simplified procedure.
How the grant is paid:
| Period | Sole proprietorship | Company |
|---|---|---|
| 1st half-year (months 1–6) | 4.400 € | 7.000 € |
| 2nd half-year (months 7–12) | 4.300 € | 7.000 € |
| 3rd half-year (months 13–18) | 4.300 € | 7.000 € |
| Total | 13.000 € | 21.000 € |
Who can apply
- Graduates of universities/technological institutes or recognised schools who obtained their degree after 01/01/2016
- Businesses to be established (set up after the application) or newly established ones registered with AADE after 01/01/2025
- Personal income in the last tax year up to €30,000
- Not employed or retired during the implementation period
- Small or micro businesses (SA, Ltd/EPE, IKE, OE, EE, sole proprietorship etc.)
- Separate business premises — not a residence and not shared with another business
- Not participating in another grant programme since 01/01/2025
What is funded
- Rent & operating costs of the business premises
- Fees of an accountant, lawyer or consultant
- Promotion, networking, trade fair participation, company website
- Equipment & consumables
- The beneficiary’s social security contributions
- Payroll cost of new staff (for the AWU unit cost)
Dates
Key exclusions
- Franchising, shop-in-shop, agency networks
- Offshore companies, financial & insurance institutions
- Primary agricultural & fisheries production
- Businesses in another grant programme since 01/01/2025
The “Xekino Epicheirimatika” programme is a significant opportunity for any graduate who wants to take the first step into entrepreneurship with real financial support. Careful preparation of the application and timely submission are crucial, as evaluation is comparative and the available funds are limited. The Upgrade Solutions team provides full support — from assessing your eligibility to the final submission of your file. Contact us early, before the deadline of 30 June 2026.
Read also: New DYPA 2026 programme: €17,500 grant for young people aged 18–29 · Start Smart: Upgrade’s modern guide for new professionals starting now
