MANOS KONSOLAS: “New Calls for Investment Projects Under the Development Law”
Major announcements were made during the special session of the Regional Development Committee, organized by MP Manos Konsolas and attended by Minister of Development Panagiotis Theodorikakos.
Key points:
- A special development scheme for border and low-income regions will be announced on Monday.
- A scheme for large-scale investments (over €15 million) will also be launched with a deadline for project submissions by September 10.
- Evaluations of proposals will be completed within 90 days, with approvals expected by Christmas.
- In the fall, a new call will support small businesses with technology upgrades and digital transformation.
Mr. Konsolas emphasized the new development law’s benefits for small and medium-sized tourism businesses in island and mountainous areas, including:
- Support for thematic and sustainable tourism.
- Special incentives for agritourism, ecotourism, cultural and gastronomic tourism.
- Flexibility in eligible expenses, including digital upgrades and staff training.
- Incentives for projects that extend the tourism season, such as conference centers, sports facilities, and spa tourism infrastructure.
Konsolas noted that only 162 of the 852 submitted investment plans were approved, and proposed:
- A new investment support scheme with increased funding.
- Tax incentives for SMEs in tourism.
- An EU-funded program (NSRF) to upgrade 3-star hotels and older accommodations.
He stressed that regional development is vital not only economically, but also demographically and geopolitically.
