THE FINANCIAL AND SOCIAL IMPACTS OF THE APPROVED PROJECTS IN THE AREA OF DIGITAL AND GREEN TRANSITION ON THE CROATIAN SMES

Abstract

On our way of living and doing business digital technologies have a profound impact. The research and innovation strategy is crucial to a more productive, sustainable and green economy. Digital solutions that put people first will open up new opportunities for businesses, encourage the development of trustworthy technology, foster an open and democratic society, enable a vibrant and sustainable economy, help fight climate change and achieve the green transition. The aim of this paper is to research the literature about digital and green transition, hers financial and social impacts on Croatian economy across of the approved projects (for the period 2019 – 2023) to the Croatian micro, small and medium entrepreneurs. Based on these results, the author(s) will contribute to the new knowledge about the green and digital transition and offer recommendations for a sustainable green and digital transition in Croatian and potential finance benefits on Croatian economy. For the purposes of this work, the author(s) used secondary data, analyzing them using the following methods: descriptive research methods, deductive research methods, analysis methods and compilation methods. Obtained results are visible in the number of approved projects proposal and the total value of the projects. The impacts of project proposals on strengthening the sustainability and competitiveness of project holders and their partners is manifested through the number of newly introduced technological solutions related to green and/or digital goals in the year m+2, the projection of the newly employed persons as a result of the implementation of project activities in the year m+2, projected increase in sales revenue in year m+2, predicted increase in exports revenues in the year m+2. On the basis of research of literature and previously conducted secondary data research, the author(s) provide recommendations for the further sustainability of the digital and green transition in micro, small and medium-sized enterprises in Croatia.