State aid: Commission approves €150 million Greek scheme to support micro and small enterprises in the region of Central Macedonia affected by the coronavirus outbreak

The European Commission has approved a €150 million Greek scheme to support micro and small enterprises active in the region of Central Macedonia affected by the coronavirus outbreak. The scheme was approved under the State aid Temporary Framework. The public support, which will take the form of direct grants, will cover working capital amounting to up to 50% of the expenses borne by the beneficiaries in 2019. The purpose of the scheme is to support micro and small enterprises that are facing a sudden liquidity shortage due to the coronavirus outbreak. The Commission found that the Greek scheme is in line with the conditions set out in the Temporary Framework. In particular, the aid per company will not exceed €800,000, as provided by the Temporary Framework. The Commission concluded that the measure is necessary, appropriate and proportionate to remedy a serious disturbance in the economy of a Member State, in line with Article 107(3)(b) TFEU and the conditions set out in the Temporary Framework. On this basis, the Commission approved the measure under EU State aid rules. More information on the Temporary Framework and other actions taken by the Commission to address the economic impact of the coronavirus pandemic can be found here. The non-confidential version of the decision will be made available under the case number SA.58367 in the State aid register on the Commission’s competition website once any confidentiality issues have been resolved.