The Development Agency of Serbia (DAS), within the framework of the Programme for Supporting Regional Development and Entrepreneurship implemented by the Ministry of Economy, has announced a Public Call for the provision of free standardised mentoring services in 2026 (the “Public Call”).
It is important to emphasise that the programme does not involve the provision of grants or other forms of direct financial assistance to beneficiaries, but rather free professional advisory support comprising between 25 and 50 hours of mentoring, depending on the needs and category of the beneficiary.
Subject to the eligibility requirements set out in the Public Call, newly established and existing micro, small and medium-sized enterprises and entrepreneurs, as well as cooperatives, clusters and social entrepreneurship entities engaged in manufacturing, processing or the provision of services, are eligible to apply.
Particular attention should be paid to the restrictions concerning eligible business activities. Applicants may not engage in trade as their predominant business activity, operate in the military industry or organise games of chance or lotteries.
From a legal and business perspective, prior to submitting an application, applicants should in particular verify:
- whether the applicant falls within the categories of eligible beneficiaries;
- the applicant’s date of registration, in order to determine whether it qualifies as a newly established or existing business entity;
- whether all tax and social security contribution liabilities have been duly settled;
- whether the applicant’s business activity satisfies the requirements of the Public Call;
- whether all required supporting documentation has been obtained, including the relevant certificate issued by the Tax Administration or, where permitted, evidence that a request for its issuance has been submitted;
- which Accredited Regional Development Agency is competent to receive the application.
The mentoring services may include a business diagnostic assessment, preparation of development plans and projects, support in accessing sources of financing, assistance with applications to banks and other financial institutions, improvement of production processes and marketing activities, business internationalisation, identification of potential business partners, as well as the implementation of KAIZEN methodology and tools.
Of particular significance is that mentoring is provided through direct cooperation between the mentor and the owner and/or legal representative of the business entity, in accordance with the methodology developed by DAS in cooperation with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).
A total budget of RSD 11,000,000 has been allocated for the implementation of the programme.
Applications, together with the prescribed forms and supporting documentation, must be submitted in person or by registered mail to the competent Accredited Regional Development Agency, in accordance with the requirements of the Public Call.
The application deadline is 13 October 2026.
For additional information or consultations, the Tasić & Partners team remains at your disposal.