On March 3rd of this year, Serbia’s Ministry of Economy awarded Rivian SE Europe doo Belgrade a subsidy of 3.5 million euros. The funding will be used to establish a European technology center, as well as centers of excellence and shared services for Rivian’s support functions.
Rivian SE Europe, founded on July 28, 2022, is owned by Rivian Europe BV, headquartered in Amsterdam, Netherlands. The company specializes in computer programming and operates within the information technology sector. At the time of applying for the subsidy, the company had no employees.
Rivian SE Europe is a part of RIV UK Engineering Limited, based in London, which focuses on engineering design for industrial processes and production. This company serves Rivian Automotive Inc, which produces electric vehicles (SUVs and pickup trucks) based on the “skateboard” platform.
Rivian’s main markets are Europe and North America. At the time of the application, the company employed 11,331 workers across the countries where it operates.
The funding supports the company’s investment project to set up a European technology center and centers of excellence in Belgrade. As per the agreement, Rivian is required to hire at least 370 new employees by the end of 2024 and invest a minimum of 6.6 million euros by the end of this year. Additionally, for five years following the investment, the company must maintain a workforce of no fewer than 370 employees.
The agreement also stipulates that Rivian will offer internships at its production plant and headquarters for students from secondary schools, as requested.
The subsidy will be paid in two installments. The first, 88.8% of the total funds (approximately 3.2 million euros), will be disbursed in 2025, while the remaining 11.16% (about 394,087 euros) will be paid in 2026.
