New support for digitalisation of manufacturing and mining is coming

The Chamber of Commerce supported a draft that aims to support the level of digitalisation and automation of manufacturing and mining companies, thereby reducing the need for human intervention.

In order to increase the added value of the industrial sector, the state has aimed to support industrial enterprises in the digitalisation of production. Until now, manufacturing and mining companies could apply for support for digital diagnostics through Enterprise Estonia (EAS). However, since June 1, the next support measure will be introduced.

The activities for which support can be applied are the use of digital technologies, robots and automation. Applications for support are processed, disbursed and monitored by EAS. The support is aimed at operating manufacturing and mining companies registered in the Estonian Commercial Register.

In the case of a support measure, please note:

• The objective of the measure is to support investment in reducing human intervention, so that added value increases (10% over two years);

• As a result of the investments, the content of the jobs will change, therefore the retraining of the employees will also be supported;

• In order to make the opportunity available to as many companies as possible, there is no minimum threshold for the support, with a ceiling of EUR 200,000. The rate of support depends on the type of state aid but does not exceed 50% of the eligible costs;

• The company must have digital audit based on the digital diagnostics method of Enterprise Estonia (but it may not be financed by the Enterprise Estonia digital diagnostics measures) and the need for planned investments identified in the course of it.