The application guidelines for the B Light 2 program have been published; the program supports cross-border business cooperation among small and medium-sized enterprises operating along the Hungarian-Croatian border. Applications are expected to be accepted starting September 24, 2026, and the call for proposals is expected to remain open for two months.
B Light 2 – Fostering cross-border business cooperation among SMEs operating on different sides of the Hungary-Croatia border, as part of the Interreg VI-A Hungary–Croatia Program, promotes the establishment and strengthening of business relationships between small and medium-sized enterprises operating on both sides of the border.
The initiative offers a platform for Hungarian and Croatian companies that wish to grow by pursuing common business goals. The focus is on joint development, the creation of new products and services, the sharing of knowledge and experience, and accessing new markets. The geographical proximity of the border region can thus become a tangible economic advantage.
Under this program, the total eligible budget for a Light project can range from 75,000 to 375,000 euros, for which a grant of 60,000 to 300,000 euros can be requested from the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF). The aid intensity is capped at 80 percent, so a minimum of 20 percent in own contributions is required to implement the projects.
This funding can facilitate a variety of business development initiatives. Eligible activities may include joint product, service, and technology development; research, development, and innovation; technology and equipment development; the creation of digital solutions; and the use of external expert and consulting services. In connection with joint development projects, activities related to market expansion, business development, and market entry are also eligible for support.
The application must involve at least one Hungarian and one Croatian partner. The program primarily offers opportunities to small and medium-sized enterprises, and, subject to the conditions specified in the call for proposals, may also allow for the involvement of research and development organizations.
The total project value of B Light 2 is 10.79 million euros, of which 8.63 million euros comes from European Union funds. Under the program, €7.50 million in EU funding is available to support cross-border cooperation projects by SMEs.
The application documents for the call for proposals are now available on the official website of the Interreg Hungary–Croatia Program. Applications are expected to be accepted starting September 24, 2026, and the submission period is expected to last two months.
The Baranya County Development Agency Nonprofit Ltd. is involved in the implementation of the B Light 2 program as a regional partner, and, as part of the program, plays a role in providing information to businesses in Baranya County and in promoting cross-border business relationships.
In connection with the call for proposals, an information session will be held in collaboration with the Agency; we will provide details on the date shortly. At the event, interested parties will receive detailed information about the content of the call for proposals, the application requirements, and the most important details regarding the submission process.
To receive updates on the B Light 2 call for proposals, the information day, and other news, please sign up for our mailing list on the Invest in Baranya website.
