In 2025, Czech entrepreneurs can benefit from a wide range of subsidies provided both by national and European institutions. Support programs cover various business areas, including innovation, digitalization, ecology, and export. Here is an overview of the most interesting and relevant options.
1. Operational Programme Technologies and Applications for Competitiveness (OP TAK)
OP TAK (Operační program Technologie a aplikace pro konkurenceschopnost) is the key programme of the Ministry of Industry and Trade to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). In 2025, several areas are available with different subsidy amounts:
- Energy savings – up to CZK 200 million per project
- Renewable energy sources – up to 50% of project costs covered
- Business digitalization – up to CZK 50 million (digital technologies, cybersecurity, BIM and CDE systems)
- Innovation – up to CZK 80 million for the development of new products and services
- Marketing – up to CZK 4.9 million for external consultancy services
Eligible applicants include SMEs, research organizations, industrial and energy enterprises, and ICT companies.
Digital Technologies Programme
Starting in October 2025, companies can receive up to CZK 30 million for the purchase and implementation of IT equipment and software, as well as training employees in digital skills. Support is primarily aimed at enterprises in Central Bohemia, South Bohemia, Plzeň, South Moravia, and Vysočina regions.
INOSTART Programme
This programme targets start-up entrepreneurs with up to three years of business experience and annual turnover not exceeding EUR 50 million. It offers loans of up to CZK 15 million with repayment terms up to five years, along with subsidies for marketing and professional consultancy.
Eligible expenses include:
- tangible fixed assets (premises, equipment, transport)
- intangible fixed assets (licenses, copyrights, patents)
- working capital (materials, raw materials)
SME Fund
From February 2025, applications can be submitted for subsidies supporting the protection and use of intellectual property (patents, utility models, trademarks, legal and consultancy services). The funding amount depends on the project. Sole proprietors (self-employed) are also eligible.
National Recovery Plan (NPO)
The National Recovery Plan (Nástroj pro oživení a odolnost) enables the Czech Republic to receive funding under the EU’s Recovery and Resilience Facility (RRF).
Supported areas:
- green transformation towards a sustainable economy
- digital infrastructure and digital skills
- science, research, and innovation
- education and the labour market
- healthcare
- transport infrastructure
The advantage of the programme is a uniform funding rate and minimal bureaucracy. The challenge is the strict “zero tolerance for errors” policy, which requires flawless applications.
TAČR Subsidies
The Technology Agency of the Czech Republic (TAČR) actively supports research and development in Czech companies. Support is available across various industries, including energy, transport, ecology, IT, and social sciences. The list of subsidy programmes is updated regularly.
Czech Labour Office
The Czech Labour Office (Úřad práce ČR) offers two forms of financial support for individuals starting self-employment (OSVČ) who are registered as job seekers:
- Subsidy for Creating a Workplace for OSVČ
- application and business plan must be submitted before starting business activity
- activity can begin only after approval and signing a contract with the Labour Office
- the amount of support depends on the regional branch, is not legally guaranteed, and cannot be appealed
- subsidy covers initial expenses (equipment, tools, facilities), but not operating costs
- Short-term/bridging subsidy
- intended to cover operating costs after launching the business
- can be granted for up to 5 months
- the amount is determined by the regional branch of the Labour Office within legal limits
How to Apply for a Subsidy?
- Register in the ISKP21+ system
- Prepare a high-quality business plan
- Attach financial documents proving project sustainability
- Respect deadlines – late applications are not accepted
Many entrepreneurs turn to consultants who help prepare documentation properly and significantly increase the chances of approval.
Useful Resources
- DotaceEU – current programmes and subsidy information
- Grantika.cz – consultancy and application support
- DotaceOnline – regional programmes and updates
In 2025, Czech entrepreneurs have access to a variety of financial instruments to support business growth. The key to success is timely preparation and proper documentation.
Author: Alexandra Baranova