From August 27, 2025, Estonian food industries can submit applications for investment support through ARIB, which is intended for the construction of buildings and the acquisition of equipment. The application round is open until October 15 and the total budget is 30 million euros.

The aim of the support is to improve the economic capacity and competitiveness of the food industry and contribute to the achievement of environmental and climate goals. Supported activities include technological innovations, digitalisation, automation, increasing security of supply of inputs and strengthening market orientation.

Who is the support paid to?

Applicants can be micro, small, medium-sized and large enterprises, if their main activity is the production of food or beverages. Support is also available to micro and small enterprises whose main activity is not food production, but which have sold agricultural products or processed products obtained from them for at least 14,000 euros in the previous two financial years.

The amount of support covers 15% to 50% of the eligible costs. The percentage depends on the size of the company and the planned activities.

Submission of applications and conditions

Applications can only be submitted electronically in the e-PRIA environment. New applicants must first register as a client of the PRIA.

The conditions are set out in the regulation of the Minister of Regional Affairs “Investment support for food industries for the period 2023–2027”. The requirements concern the absence of tax debt, the company's solvency, the correctness of previous support, criminal record data and other sustainability. Score points are also taken into account, which depend on the size of the company and the content of its activities.

Comments and context

Although the ARIB news itself did not contain quotes, the media has emphasized that the support can be used to create new production units, invest in digital solutions and increase the security of supply of inputs. It is also an opportunity to modernize existing production.

Previous similar supports have been important, for example, in ensuring energy security - for example, companies that invested in generators or backup energy systems have been supported to ensure the continuation of production even in a crisis situation.

Former head of Enterprise Estonia Kati Kusmin has said that investments that have both an economic and environmental impact are essential for the future of the Estonian food sector. Similar views have also been expressed by leaders of the industrial sector, emphasizing the need for a flexible but strong support system.

Summary

From August 27 to October 15, 2025, Estonian food industries can apply for support through ARIB for the construction of buildings and the acquisition of equipment. The 30 million euro support measure will help increase the competitiveness of the sector, encourage technological innovation and contribute to meeting environmental goals. Applications are submitted in e-PRIA and the eligibility of companies is determined based on various criteria, including tax compliance and sustainability.

https://www.pria.ee/uudised/toiduainetoostused-saavad-tanasest-prialt-taotleda-toetust-ehitistesse-ja-seadmetesse