The National Innovation Fund presents a Concept for Strategic Priorities for Innovation Support, prepared by the NIF Executive Board. Drawing on its professional expertise, strategic vision, and understanding of the needs of the innovation ecosystem, the Executive Board has formulated a framework that directs public support toward projects with real potential to create technologies, products, and solutions with high added value.

The concept focuses on the most critical stages of innovation development—from proof of concept to validation, demonstration, and initial real-world applications. The main priority is projects at Technology Readiness Levels (TRL) 4–6, as well as TRL 7–9 when they involve research and development, industrial or experimental testing, validation, or demonstration of the technology being developed. The concept positions the NIF as an active driver for accelerating innovation—a fund that does not merely finance ideas, but supports their transformation into practical solutions, competitive products, and new opportunities for Bulgarian businesses. Particular attention is given to innovative start-up small and medium-sized enterprises, projects with high growth potential, and partnerships between businesses, universities, research organizations, and participants in the innovation ecosystem. The role of the NIF as a bridge between national support and European and international programs is also emphasized. The Fund will seek opportunities to participate in joint initiatives and partnerships, including through Eurostars /Eureka, EIC, DIANA, ESA, and other programs, with the aim of attracting additional resources, expanding Bulgarian innovators’ access to international instruments, and strengthening their integration into European value chains.

With this concept, the National Innovation Fund declares its ambition to serve as a springboard for Bulgarian innovation—a predictable, accessible, and results-oriented partner that connects knowledge, entrepreneurial energy, and international opportunities to turn good ideas into real solutions, new markets, and sustainable growth for Bulgaria.

More about the concept:

https://nif.government.bg/en/about/mission