Romania

Opportunities through the EEA Grants

Romania receives EEA Grants funding. The EEA Grants are Norway's contribution to reducing social and economic disparities in Europe and strengthening cooperation between the beneficiary countries and Norway.

Over the past seven years, we have managed the ‘Business Development and Innovation’ and ‘Renewable Energy’ programmes in Romania. These programmes have received more than €100 million in funding for projects in green and digital innovation, renewable energy, clean industry and capacity building. Around half of the projects were carried out with Norwegian partners, helping to strengthen cooperation between Norway and Romania in areas of mutual interest.

Romania will also receive EEA Grants in the upcoming programme period. Negotiations for the next period are under way, and we will provide more information once the agreement has been signed in the first half of 2026.

Market opportunities in Romania

Romania is the sixth-largest country in the EU by population. It is strategically located on the Black Sea and offers a growing market, a network of highly skilled professionals and relatively low costs. Romania's key sectors are:

Information technology and digital services

Romania offers expertise in software development, cybersecurity, cloud services, artificial intelligence, automation technologies and digital services. Cities such as Bucharest, Cluj and Timișoara have dynamic technology ecosystems with start-ups that are succeeding internationally. Romanian developers deliver global solutions based on cloud services, artificial intelligence and automation, supported by a strong talent pool from leading universities.

Renewable energy and the green transition

Romania is investing in the transition to renewable energy, including wind, solar and hydropower. EU initiatives and national strategies are driving investment in energy efficiency, smart grids and green manufacturing. Romania's energy sector offers attractive opportunities thanks to the country's relatively high level of energy independence, diverse energy mix and connections to neighbouring countries such as Moldova and Ukraine, as well as Central Europe. Green technology manufacturing is also growing, including solar panels, turbine components and battery technology, alongside renewable energy production, smart grid infrastructure and sustainable technology development.

Automotive industry and advanced manufacturing

Romania plays a key role in the European automotive supply chain, with major manufacturers such as Dacia and Ford, as well as smart manufacturing of batteries and powertrain systems, production of electric vehicle components, automation and smart manufacturing technologies.

Agriculture and agri-tech

Romania's fertile soil and favourable climate support a strong agricultural sector. EU funding and modernisation are driving growth in organic farming, precision agriculture and food processing, while new technologies and digitalisation are also creating export opportunities.