On 16 December, the Cabinet of Ministers (CM) approved the draft regulation “Support Rules for Market Participation Activities”, which aims to increase the share of large export-oriented companies in the economy, promote entrepreneurship and research collaboration, and ensure access to funding for market participation activities, thereby fostering investment attraction, innovation, and export growth in Latvia.
In 2026, up to EUR 4.2 million is planned for this purpose, which will support investment attraction and the growth of exports in Latvia.
It is envisaged that a single recipient may receive up to EUR 100,000 within one calendar year. If the support is provided under Commission Regulation No. 2023/2831 (de minimis), the support intensity will be 60%; however, if the support does not qualify as business aid, the intensity will be 85%.
Eligible activities and costs for support include participation in international exhibitions abroad and in Latvia with a stand or joint stand, participation in conferences abroad with a stand or presentation, and participation in business matchmaking events abroad, either in person or online. The support also covers the costs of developing and managing advertising campaigns, creating marketing visual materials, conducting target market research, and organizing international exhibitions in Latvia, among other activities.
Priority applicants include: large companies registered in the Commercial Register of the Republic of Latvia, state-owned companies, municipal-owned companies, private companies, public-private companies, municipalities, special economic zone authorities, port authorities, associations or foundations established by the state or municipalities registered in the Register of Associations and Foundations, planning regions, or scientific institutions.