A national programme will aid Bulgaria in its attempts to increase competitiveness and speed up economic growth in the period from 2007 to 2013.

Deputy Economy and Energy Minister Nina Radeva presented the programme during a seminar on new business opportunities related to Bulgaria’s EU entry.

The programme targets the development of small and medium-sized companies in Bulgaria, which are the main force behind economic growth in the country.
 
Radeva said that the programme is the first attempt of the Economy and Energy Ministry to create a system for financial support for small and medium-sized companies. Financial resources will come from the European Regional Development Fund and from the national budget.

Innovations and risk capital funding will be provided, as well, Focus news agency reported.