Romania
Partnerships open doors to a growing EU market, skilled talent and opportunities in sectors such as green energy, digital innovation and advanced manufacturing.
Market Opportunities in Romania
Romania is the sixth largest country in the EU by population. Romania combines a strategic location on the Black Sea, a growing home market and strong EU integration with competitive cost Levels.
The main sectors are:
Information Technology and Digital Services
Romania is a tech hub with capabilities in software development, cybersecurity, cloud platforms, artificial intelligence and automation technologies and digital services. Cities like Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, and Timișoara host vibrant ecosystems boasting startups that succeed in international markets. Developers deliver global solutions using cloud platforms, artificial intelligence and automation technologies. Supported by a robust talent pipeline from universities, this is a dynamic sector that offers opportunities for investment in the latest technology.
Renewable Energy and Green Transition
The country is accelerating its shift toward renewable energy, particularly in wind, solar and hydropower. EU-backed initiatives and national strategies are driving investments in energy efficiency, smart grids and green manufacturing. The energy sector is attractive because of the country’s relatively high energy independence, diverse energy mix and connections to neighbouring market, including Moldova and the Ukraine but also Central Europe. There is growth in green energy manufacturing, including solar panels, turbine components, and battery technologies, as well as renewable energy generation, smart grid infrastructure and technology manufacturing.
Automotive and Advanced Manufacturing
Romania plays a key role in the European automotive supply chain, with major manufacturers like Dacia and Ford operating locally. The sector is transitioning toward smart manufacturing as well as batteries and drivetrain systems. There are opportunities in EV component manufacturing, automation, and smart production technologies.
Agriculture and Agri-Tech
Romania’s fertile land and favourable climate support a strong agricultural sector. EU subsidies as well as modernisation efforts are driving growth in organic farming, precision agriculture and food processing as well as digitalisation and export opportunities.
The EEA and Norway Grants (EØS-midlene)
Romania is a beneficiary of the EEA and Norway Grants. The EEA and Norway Grants are Norway’s contribution to cohesion and cooperation in Europe. The Grants aim to reduce social and economic disparities and to increase cooperation between the beneficiary countries and Norway.
As part of the Grants, Innovation Norway has operated programmes on Business Development, Innovation and SMEs and on Renewable Energy in Romania over the past seven years. These programmes have provided more than 100 million euro to projects on green and digital innovation, renewable energy, the greening of industry and capacity-building. Around half of the projects were implemented together with Norwegian partners, and the strengthened cooperation between Norway and Romania will continue to provide benefits for companies in both countries.
Romania will benefit from the EEA and Norway Grants in the upcoming programming period too. Negotiations on the next period are ongoing, and information on the opportunities in Romania will be made available once the agreement is signed. The agreement is expected in early 2026.
Read more about the EEA and Norway Grants here.
Address
Innovation Norway – Bucharest office,
11-11A George Enescu Street,
Enescu Office building 2nd floor, 1st district
010301 Bucharest
