Romania Launches Program to Fund Diaspora Businesses

The Romanian government has officially launched "Diaspora Invests at Home," a new program designed to encourage Romanians living abroad to establish businesses within Romania. The initiative, approved during a government meeting, has a total budget of 100 million euros.

Interim Prime Minister Ilie Bolojan announced the program, which will be implemented through the Investment and Development Bank. It targets newly established companies majority-owned by Romanians residing abroad. Beneficiaries can receive a grant covering up to 60% of an investment loan, capped at 200,000 euros per project.

Officials estimate that the program will support approximately 1,000 new businesses between 2026 and 2029. The core objective is to harness the professional skills and experience gained by Romanians working overseas, thereby stimulating investment and fostering economic growth within Romania.

Companies receiving funding will be required to maintain their investments and ownership structure for at least three years. Bolojan emphasized that private investment is crucial for economic development and that this program aims to incentivize more Romanians to return home, create jobs, and contribute to the local economy.

“

We aim to support approximately 1,000 new businesses between 2026–2029 and to leverage the professional experience that many Romanians have acquired abroad. The program offers easier access to financing for the businesses they want to develop in Romania and contributes to the development of the local economy.