ZDK Government: 2.2 million KM for employment of the veteran population

(Patria) - The Government of Zenica-Doboj Canton (ZDK) at today's session, at the proposal of the Ministry for Veteran Affairs, adopted programs for employment and self-employment incentives for members of the veteran population for 2026.

After record results in the past year, the Ministry continues with the economic empowerment of veterans and their family members, with additional improvements compared to the previous cycle.

For these purposes, funds in the amount of 2.2 million KM have been allocated for 2026, planned in accordance with the needs of the labor market and the growing interest of beneficiaries, with the aim of reducing the unemployment rate within this population.

The programs include incentives for self-employment and employment, with a special focus on developing one's own business through the "First Business" and "Business Plus" programs.

Within the "First Business" program, funds in the amount of 12,000 KM are provided for beneficiaries who have registered their activity from January 1, 2025, until the completion of the Public Call.

The "Business Plus" program is intended for beneficiaries who have already used the Ministry's incentives, and includes several support models - from 3,000 to 10,000 KM for those who have employed one or more workers, from 1,000 to 7,000 KM for beneficiaries who have maintained their business and settled tax obligations, as well as a one-time incentive of 1,000 KM for beneficiaries of the "First Business" program from 2025 who have retained their registered activity and duly settled their tax obligations.



At the same time, employment incentives in legal entities are aimed at cooperation with employers who express interest in employing members of the veteran population, with subsidies for salaries and contributions in the amount of 12,860 KM per newly employed worker for a period of 24 months.

Compared to the previous year, the criteria for awarding funds have been further improved, so the List of Special Beneficiaries - children of demobilized veterans - will be formed in accordance with the participation of parents in the Armed Forces during the period from April 6, 1992, to December 23, 1995, with priority given to those whose parents spent a longer period in their ranks.

- Our goal is not just a statistical reduction in unemployment, but the permanent integration of veterans and their children into economic flows. Last year, we had a record number of applications, which was a clear signal for us to continue with the same, or even greater intensity, in 2026.

Continuous support through "Business Plus" shows that we do not leave our beneficiaries alone after the first year, but we monitor their growth and sustainability in the market - said Minister Adnan Sirovica.

According to him, the Ministry will announce a Public Call in the coming days, which will be available on the official website of the Zenica-Doboj Canton, as well as through the competent city and municipal services for veteran-disability protection.

They invited all interested members of the veteran population to check the conditions and prepare the necessary documentation in a timely manner in accordance with the Public Call, in order to exercise their right to non-refundable funds and support in their professional work.