The National Employment Service (NES) has announced a public call offering subsidies to unemployed individuals interested in starting their own businesses. The subsidy amounts to 380,000 dinars, with a slightly higher amount of 420,000 dinars available for individuals with disabilities. These funds are provided as a one-time payment and can be used for establishing a shop, cooperative, or any other form of entrepreneurship, including starting a business company.
Eligibility requirements: To qualify for the subsidy, applicants must meet the following conditions:
- Be registered with the National Employment Service.
- Complete entrepreneurship development training.
- Settle all obligations to the National Employment Service by the application date.
- Regularly pay taxes and mandatory social insurance contributions for at least 12 months after starting the business.
The subsidy is classified as de minimis aid, meaning it is subject to certain legal restrictions and a financial framework, limiting the amount of assistance received within the current and two previous fiscal years.
Ineligible activities: The subsidy cannot be used for the establishment of associations or certain other non-financed activities.
Application process: To apply, candidates must complete the required application form, which includes a detailed business plan. Additional documents must be attached, such as proof of completed entrepreneurship training (if not conducted by NES) and, for individuals with disabilities, a decision on their disability or work ability assessment.
Applications can be submitted:
- In person at the competent branch of the National Employment Service.
- By mail.
- Electronically via the call site.
Scoring and priority categories: Applications will be ranked based on a point system, with priority given to categories such as:
- Long-term unemployed individuals.
- People over 50 years old.
- Young people with no work experience.
- People with disabilities.
- Women from less developed areas.
Candidates can receive up to 30 points based on these categories. If there is a tie in points, priority is given to those who submitted their application first.
Approval process: The decision to approve the subsidy will be made based on the ranking list of candidates, with the final decision expected within 30 days after the close of the public call. If insufficient funds are available, remaining applications may be reconsidered.
Contract signing and obligations: Approved candidates must sign a contract with the National Employment Service within 45 days of the decision. The contract defines the rights and obligations of both parties, and the subsidy is paid only after signing the agreement.
Subsidy recipients are obligated to:
- Perform the registered business activity for at least 12 months.
- Pay taxes and contributions regularly.
- Allow NES to monitor the project’s implementation.
Failure to meet these obligations may result in the return of all or part of the subsidy amount, along with legal interest.
The final list of approved subsidies will be published on the National Employment Service’s bulletin boards and website.
