The Ministries of Labor, Social Affairs and Family and the Ministry of Economy released a joint call on Thursday to submit applications for non-refundable financial contributions within the Employment and Social Inclusion and Competitiveness and Economic Growth operational programs. Labor Minister Viera Tomanova provided this information at Thursday's press conference. This call is to help resolve employment problems mainly in regions with a high long-term joblessness rate, to support creation of jobs and to increase adaptability of employees in direct relation to growth of company competitiveness, the minister explained.
On aggregate, SKK 600 million (EUR 19.92 million) will be distributed among successful applicants. The maximum amount per contribution is EUR 200,000 (SKK 6.025 million), and the minimum sum was set at EUR 5,000 (SKK 150,600). The aid provided to any one applicant must not exceed 50 percent of total eligible costs of the project. Districts with long-lasting unemployment, such as Rimavska Sobota, Velky Krtis, Revuca, and Spisska Nova Ves, are exempt from this rule. Maximum assistance can be 20 percent higher in these localities. Applicants have to submit their applications by November 28, 2008. Assistance will be provided over a period of 36 months.
Beginner businesses that have not been conducting business for longer than three years as of the bid submission date, organizations founded by authorities of state and public administrations, which do business, participate in economic competition and in which the stake of legal entities on the share capital or voting rights equals or exceeds 51 percent are eligible for this assistance. Entities from all counties can apply for aid, except for Bratislava County. Minister. Tomanova pointed out that not the registered address of applicants but the place of the project's implementation will be decisive in the distribution of funds.