STEP employee training: €20 million call, applications from 2 November
The call for in-company training in strategic technologies, defence and security has been published. It offers 50% funding through company applications, not individual vouchers.
A new call under the Competitiveness Programme allocates €20 million for employee training in STEP strategic technologies and defence–security. The Greek Ministry of National Economy and Finance announced it on 14 October 2026; the programme’s official page is dated 13 October.
Applications are not open yet
Online applications through OPSKE start on Monday 2 November 2026 at 15:00 and close on Thursday 31 December 2026 at 15:00. The call’s “Active” status does not mean applications can already be submitted.
Eligibility and funding
Applicants are existing companies employing at least 100 distinct workers during the last complete calendar year before application, documented through ERGANI. Eligible activity or demonstrated relevance and a focus on the call’s subject areas are required. This is not an individual voucher for employees or unemployed people.
Eligible training plans range from €150,000 to €1.2 million. Public funding covers 50%, or €75,000–€600,000 per plan. Subjects include digital and green technologies, biotechnology, health technologies and cyber defence.
Before applying
A Business Training Plan setting out skills needs, relevance and expected results is mandatory. Applications are assessed in chronological order until the relevant funds are exhausted; participation does not guarantee approval.
Training activities must not have started before application. Trainees’ wage costs, legally mandatory training and equipment purchases are not funded. Companies should check every annex to the call before committing expenditure.
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