Since 2001, the EIF has enhanced access to finance for Bulgarian SMEs and the dynamic environment for SMEs and startups within the country.
Through region-specific programmes and local partnerships, initiatives such as JEREMIE Bulgaria have reached around 9,000 SMEs, More recently, the 2016 SME Initiative has mobilised €385 million, providing support to over 4,000 SMEs, including micro-enterprises and startups.
“Changing careers is the kind of thing you do once in a lifetime. It does require a lot of effort, it’s a complete change in daily routines, re-working everything around you. I can’t say it was an easy step, but I was very determined,” explains Antoaneta Stefanova.
Taking advantage of a deferred tuition payment plan guaranteed in part by the EU and backed by the European Investment Fund, Antoaneta signed up for a 6-month programming course at Telerik Academy and landed a job shortly upon completion.