OPEN CALL: Scaling-up programme for SMEs!

Are you a small or medium-sized enterprise (SME) operating in the food and beverage sector that wants to grow beyond the local market?

Interreg Central Baltic project “Rural-UP” invites ambitious SMEs from Vidzeme and Latgale in Latvia, South Estonia, and the Kymenlaakso region of Finland to apply for an international 12-month scaling-up programme designed to help SMEs grow faster, smarter, and across borders.

The programme will help to overcome challenges linked to remote locations, limited market access, and growth capacity. Selected companies will join a cross-border growth journey, gaining access to expertise, networks, and tools needed to scale their business internationally.

Who should apply?

• Food and beverage production and related sectors SMEs established no more than 5 years ago, who are registered and operating in Vidzeme or Latgale in Latvia, South Estonia or Kymenlaakso region of Finland;
• Ambitious to grow and scale internationally;
• Open to collaboration and learning in English.

Programme benefits:

• International mentoring and experts support;
• Practical trainings and webinars on growth, innovation, digital tools, branding, export, and sustainability;
• Exchange visits;
• Participation in international events;
• A personalised growth roadmap with clear KPIs;
• Support for new markets, products, and investments.

Why join?

By the end of the programme, companies are expected to achieve measurable growth, such as:

• Entering new export markets;
• Increasing revenue or production capacity;
• Launching new or improved products;
• Securing investments or funding;
• Strengthening digital sales and visibility.

Application period:

From 20th of January till 16th of February 2026. Applications are submitted online HERE.

Information seminars: 

Informative seminars will take place from 21.02. to 06.02.2026.
Stay updated by following the project partners social media channels!

Ready to grow?

If you are a food & beverage production or related sector business with big ambitions, this programme is your opportunity to scale up internationally – with expert support and a strong cross-border network behind you.

Apply and take the next step in your growth journey!

The project “Rural Enterprise Expansion Initiative (Rural-UP | CB0600372)” is funded under the Interreg Central Baltic Programme 2021–2027.