The Innovation Fund has published the results of the 2023 public call for the MSME Innovation Programme. Following a thorough evaluation process, 5 projects were selected for co-financing with a total approved amount of EUR 720,000.
The funded projects represent a strong focus on technology-driven product development and sustainable manufacturing processes. Sectors covered include organic food production, solar energy, marine inspection systems, sustainable textiles and prefabricated housing made from recycled materials.
Each selected project will receive up to 70% of eligible costs in grant funding over an 18-month implementation period. The 2023 round saw increased competition, with the average quality of applications significantly higher than in the 2021 cycle, reflecting the growing maturity of the innovation ecosystem in Montenegro.
Winners
Project name
Organic Produce Supply Chain
Project description
Development of a digital traceability platform and cold-chain logistics network for certified organic producers in Montenegro to reach retail and export markets.
Project name
Solar Panel Efficiency Enhancer
Project description
Innovation of a proprietary anti-reflective coating and micro-inverter module that increases energy yield of standard solar panels by up to 18%.
Project name
Underwater Drone Inspection System
Project description
Development of an autonomous underwater drone for inspection of submerged infrastructure such as pipelines, harbour facilities and fish farms, reducing the need for costly diver operations.
Project name
Sustainable Textile Dyeing Process
Project description
Development and industrial-scale implementation of a waterless textile dyeing process using supercritical CO2, significantly reducing water consumption and chemical waste.
Project name
Prefab Housing from Recycled Materials
Project description
Design and prototype production of energy-efficient prefabricated housing modules constructed from recycled construction waste, targeting affordable housing markets.
