The Strategic Plan for Agricultural and Rural Development 2023-2027 provides for a large-scale intervention for afforestation and forest territory restoration. The financial initiative is aimed at comprehensive improvement of the ecological environment through targeted investment mechanisms.
The main goal of the program is multi-layered impact on the natural environment - regulating the hydrological cycle, preserving biological diversity, and effectively absorbing carbon emissions. An additional focus is prevention against soil erosion and agricultural land desertification.
The circle of potential beneficiaries covers a wide spectrum of subjects - individuals and legal entities, sole traders, forest associations, religious communities, municipal and state structures. They can apply for grants for various activities related to forest fund restoration.
Financial support includes a comprehensive package of eligible expenses: preparation of a technological plan, soil preparation, purchase of planting material, temporary storage, labor remuneration, fencing, and preventive measures against plant diseases.
The maximum financing amount varies - up to 800 thousand euros for most candidates and up to 7 million euros for state enterprises. The assessment will apply specific priority criteria, including the degree of forest potential damage and use of local tree species.
Applications will be submitted entirely electronically through the Electronic Services System (SEU) at https://seu.dfz.bg. The deadline for submission of applications is set for October 3, 2025.