Hungary and Croatia’s border areas face significant legal and bureaucratic challenges that deter economic cooperation. Differences in company registration, permits, and procurement processes create obstacles for businesses. This project aligns with broader regional objectives by creating a cohesive framework to promote entrepreneurship and regional growth. The project directly contributes to the program’s objectives of fostering economic development through a supportive cross-border environment for SMEs. The project aims to promote sustainable entrepreneurship and cross-border partnerships by reducing regulatory hurdles. Located in the Hungary-Croatia border region, the project will involve target groups: start-ups, SMEs, incubators, and public bodies. Partners (2 HR - 2 HU) include Enter Koprivnica as a lead partner, and ZMVA, Inkubatori VPŽ, and SFN, each managing specific activities based on their expertise.

By reducing bureaucratic barriers, the project will support cross-border collaboration among business incubators, support organizations, and public institutions, enhancing the region’s attractiveness for SMEs and startups.

Expected Outputs and Results:
Border Connect Business Point: : A centralized hub for legal and administrative support for SMEs.
Digital tool - centralized digital platform with digitized reports, databases, online documents and contact of experts
Workshops: Capacity-building sessions on business support, sustainable development
Experience-sharing Meetings: Exchange of best practices to foster cross-border frameworks.

The project will create a transparent, efficient business environment, encouraging entrepreneurship and simplifying cross-border operations.

The cross-border approach will address shared administrative challenges, creating a more integrated regional economy and enhancing mutual cooperation. By fostering streamlined administrative processes, the project will drive investment, transparency, and a sustainable partnership foundation, ensuring long-term benefits for businesses and public institutions. The Border Connect Business Point and digital platform will remain active post-project, with partners committed to ongoing updates and a follow-up meeting to evaluate progress, ensuring enduring impact.

The project is financed from the Interreg VI-A Hungary-Croatia program, its total value is 289,214.98 EUR (231,371.97 EUR EU contribution) of which 84,131.01 (67,304.81 EUR, 80% co-financed) applies to Enter Koprivnica. Project duration: 01/02/2026 - 31/07/2027.