How Will Bulgaria Use Digital Decade Funds to Develop Quantum and Semiconductor Technologies by 2027?
The Digital Decade program offers Bulgaria a unique opportunity to accelerate its digital transformation and position itself as a player in strategic sectors such as quantum technologies and semiconductors. By 2027, the country will have access to over €2.19 billion for digital projects — about €1.3 billion from the Recovery & Resilience Mechanism and the rest from European cohesion funds.
First steps and current developments
Bulgaria is already part of initiatives like EuroHPC, Chips Joint Undertaking, and EuroQCI. The “Discoverer” supercomputer at Sofia Tech Park has become a regional hub for high-performance computing, and pilot projects in quantum communications pave the way for establishing a QCI network.
The national roadmap includes 60 measures aimed at stimulating research and development (R&D), public-private partnerships, and funding for startups.
Challenges and opportunities
One major hurdle is the fragmented ecosystem — few startups and a lack of private investment in deep tech. According to an OECD analysis, without strategic coordination, the infrastructure risks remaining underutilized for industrial applications.
At the same time, the EU encourages the development of sensitive industries through legislation such as the Chips Act and Quantum Act, which could open doors for Bulgaria as a regional hub.
Possible scenarios by 2027
Scenario A: Accelerated ecosystem building
Through proactive policies and foreign investment attraction, Bulgaria manages to develop quantum communication hubs and small semiconductor production lines. Public-private partnerships boost R&D and create new jobs.
Scenario B: Limited achievements
Funds are used for infrastructure, but a lack of entrepreneurial culture and private investment prevents real competitiveness.
Scenario C: Delays and isolation
Low administrative capacity and slow project implementation lead to missed opportunities to position Bulgaria in strategic sectors.
Conclusion
The Digital Decade represents a chance for Bulgaria to shift from a consumer to a creator of high-tech solutions. Realizing this potential depends on attracting investments, coordinating public and private efforts, and building a sustainable ecosystem.
Disclaimer:
This article is an analytical review by the BurgasMedia editorial board and reflects the opinion of an expert group based on current political, economic, and social developments.
The conclusions presented are not predictions or factual statements, but a hypothetical interpretation of possible scenarios.
The publication is not responsible for any discrepancies with future developments and encourages readers to form independent judgments based on verified sources.