by[email protected]GrantsNo Comments

STEP Business R&D&I for Digital and Biotechnology

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STEP Business R&D&I for Digital and Biotechnology supports integrated research, development and productive innovation projects focused on the development, scale-up and commercial production of critical digital and biotechnology technologies. In doing so, it reinforces strategic European value chains through consortia led by companies under the EU Strategic Technologies for Europe Platform (STEP).

Programme details

  • Application deadline:30 April 2026

  • Beneficiary entities: Large companies, SMEs, micro-enterprises and startups (in co-promotion consortia)

  • Benefit: R&D activities: up to 80% funding and productive innovation activities: up to 70% funding, in accordance with regional aid maps and State aid rules.

  • Minimum investment: €5,000,000

  • Geographic scope: Mainland Portugal (excluding Lisbon area)

 

About the funding

STEP Business R&D&I for Digital and Biotechnology supports integrated investment operations combining industrial research, experimental development and productive innovation.

Projects must target higher Technology Readiness Levels (TRL ≥ 6), with limited activities allowed from TRL 4. The programme is designed to accelerate the transition from advanced development to industrial deployment and market introduction.

Eligible operations must contribute to the development, manufacturing or reinforcement of value chains of critical technologies in one of the following areas:

  • Digital technologies, including deep tech and technologies aligned with the Digital Decade objectives
  • Biotechnologies, including critical medicines and their components

Projects must align with STEP objectives, demonstrate innovation or strategic value-chain reinforcement, and lead to commercialisation or industrial deployment of results.

The maximum project duration is 36 months.

How it works

This grant requires the creation of co-promotion consortia led by companies and integrates both R&D and productive investment components within a single operation.

Projects must demonstrate:

  • Strategic relevance within European critical technology priorities
  • Technological maturity compatible with industrial deployment
  • Clear contribution to competitiveness and value-chain strengthening
  • Market-oriented outcomes resulting in commercial production or industrial implementation

The integrated structure allows companies to combine research and development efforts with investment in production capacity within the same funding framework.

Eligible investment expenses

R&D component:

  • Personnel costs (technical staff, researchers, fellows)
  • Acquisition and licensing of patents
  • Consumables and raw materials
  • Prototypes, pilot and demonstration components
  • External scientific, technical and consultancy services
  • Equipment, scientific instruments and specialised software (amortisation)
  • Intellectual property protection costs
  • Dissemination of results (non-commercial)
  • Travel strictly related to R&D
  • Certification, audits and financial validation costs

Productive innovation component:

  • Machinery and equipment
  • Tangible and intangible assets, including patents, licences, know-how and software
  • Engineering services, studies, audits and technical services (for SMEs)
  • Construction or refurbishment of facilities, within defined percentage limits
  • Job creation costs, as an alternative in eligible regions

All expenses must be directly related to the approved project and comply with applicable regional aid and State aid rules.

Who can benefit from this incentive

This incentive is aimed at companies developing critical technologies within digital and biotechnology sectors, operating through structured co-promotion consortia.

It is particularly relevant for organisations that:

  • Develop advanced technological solutions approaching industrial maturity
  • Require scale-up investment linked to R&D outcomes
  • Operate within strategic European value chains
  • Intend to move from development stages to full industrial deployment

 

Understanding the rules and eligibility criteria of each incentive is essential to assess its relevance and potential impact within a company’s broader investment and tax strategy.
For clarification or further information, reach out through our contact form.

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by[email protected]GrantsNo Comments

STEP Productive Innovation for Digital and Biotechnology

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STEP productive innovation supports innovative productive investment projects aimed at manufacturing critical digital and biotechnology technologies or strengthening and securing their value chains. In doing so, it contributes to reinforcing strategic industrial capacity and technological sovereignty within the European framework.

Programme details

  • Application deadline: 30 April 2026

  • Beneficiary entities: Large companies, SMEs, micro-enterprises and startups

  • Benefit: 50% for micro and small enterprises, 40% for medium enterprises and 30% for small mid-caps and large enterprises.

    +5 percentage points for projects located in certain areas of Algarve
    +10 percentage points for projects located in the remaining mainland Portugal

  • Minimum investment: €3,000,000

  • Geographic scope: Mainland Portugal (excluding Lisbon area)

 

About the funding

STEP Productive Innovation for Digital and Biotechnology is a funding incentive aimed at supporting innovative productive investment projects.

The call focuses on the creation of new establishments, diversification of production, introduction of new products or services, or fundamental changes to production processes. Eligible projects must contribute to the manufacturing of critical technologies or to reinforcing their value chains in the areas of digital technologies, including deep tech aligned with the Digital Decade 2030 objectives, and biotechnologies, including critical medicines and their components.

This initiative follows the strategic framework defined under the European Strategic Technologies for Europe Platform (STEP), reinforcing the role of advanced technologies in strengthening European value chains.

How it works

This call supports productive investment projects that integrate technological innovation and advanced knowledge into manufacturing activities.

Eligible projects must demonstrate:

  • Strategic relevance for the European Union
  • Contribution to innovation or value-chain reinforcement
  • Economic viability
  • Impact on competitiveness, exports and qualified employment

The maximum project duration is typically 24 months. The incentive is designed to support structurally relevant investments rather than incremental or routine improvements.

Eligible investment expenses

Eligible expenses under STEP Productive Innovation for Digital and Biotechnology include:

Tangible assets such as machinery, equipment, production lines, IT equipment and associated installation costs

Intangible assets including patents, licenses, technical know-how and software

For SMEs, additional eligible costs may include engineering services, studies, audits, certification, DNSH alignment studies, marketing plans and architecture and engineering projects

Construction or refurbishment of buildings, when duly justified and within defined percentage limits

All expenses must be directly related to the productive investment and incurred after the submission of the application.

Who can benefit from this incentive

This incentive is aimed at companies that develop innovation-driven investment projects in digital technologies, deep-tech or biotechnology.

It is particularly relevant for businesses that:

  • Operate in knowledge-intensive sectors

  • Develop technology-based products or processes

  • Contribute to innovation within complex value chains

  • Seek to strengthen productivity and international competitiveness

 

Understanding the rules and eligibility criteria of each incentive is essential to assess its relevance and potential impact within a company’s broader investment and tax strategy.
For clarification or further information, reach out through our contact form.

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by[email protected]GrantsNo Comments

Internationalization of SMEs for individual operations

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Support for individual operations by SMEs aimed at business capacity building for internationalization through the adoption of advanced business strategies and increased integration into global value chains.

Programme details

  • Application deadline: 31/03/2026

  • Beneficiary entities: SMEs and micro-enterprises

  • Benefit: 50% non-refundable grant (up to 150.000€ grant)

  • Minimum investment: 200.000€

  • Geographic scope: Mainland Portugal

 

About the funding

Internationalization of SMEs – Individual operations is a funding incentive designed to strengthen the international presence of small and medium-sized enterprises.

This call supports operations that enhance SMEs’ capacity for internationalisation, to increase export base and export capacity, improve international recognition, and facilitate access to new markets. The incentive places particular emphasis on market diversification and the increased use of digital tools through online platforms.

Priority is given to operations focused on the production of tradable and internationalizable goods and services, especially those integrated into broader production chains that generate higher added value.

How it works

The incentive supports individual internationalization operations carried out by SMEs, combining promotional, marketing and strategic activities aimed at external markets.

Eligible operations may include actions to strengthen international visibility, participation in international events, development of international marketing strategies, and the adoption of digital tools to support global reach.

Special focus is placed on:

  • Diversification of target markets

  • Reinforcement of international promotion and branding

  • Increased use of digital platforms in internationalization strategies

Eligible investment expenses

Eligible expenses under Internationalization of SMEs – Individual operations include the following categories.

Human resources

  • Salary costs related to the hiring of qualified human resources

  • Up to two new hires

  • Maximum base salary of €2,250 per month per hire

International promotion and events

  • Participation costs in international fairs and exhibitions

  • Space rental

  • Stand construction and operation

Specialised consulting services

Eligible consulting services include:

  • International marketing campaigns

  • Product, process or service certification

  • New brand design and brand registration

  • Subscriptions to digital platforms and the development of digital presence

  • Internationalization promotion and market prospecting

  • Incorporation of ESG principles

  • Accountant or auditor validation of payment requests (up to €5,000)

Who can benefit from this incentive

Internationalization of SMEs – Individual operations are aimed at small and medium-sized enterprises seeking to strengthen or expand their international activities.

The incentive is particularly relevant for SMEs that:

  • Intend to increase export capacity

  • Seek to access new international markets

  • Invest in international promotion and branding

  • Use digital tools as part of their internationalization strategy

 

Understanding the rules and eligibility criteria of each incentive is essential to assess its relevance and potential impact within a company’s broader investment and tax strategy.
For clarification or further information, reach out through our contact form.

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by[email protected]Business SetupNo Comments

Starting a business in Portugal in 2026

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Many companies arrive in Portugal with a clear business plan, but without a clear operational framework.
This gap is often only noticed after activities begin, when tax issues, delayed registrations or compliance obligations start to surface.

Starting a business well is not about speed.
It is about making the right decisions before the first formal step is taken.

For international companies, early clarity is what prevents costly corrections later.

Why early planning matters

In practice, many of the issues companies face when entering the Portuguese market could have been avoided with earlier preparation.
Incorrect tax setups, delayed registrations or compliance obligations addressed too late often lead to adjustments once operations are already underway.

Early planning allows businesses to define their legal, tax and operational framework with greater predictability, reducing uncertainty as activities begin.

Portugal offers a stable environment for companies establishing operations, provided regulatory requirements are understood and addressed at the right stage.

Structure before registration

Choosing the right legal and operational structure before registration can have a lasting impact on taxation, reporting obligations and future flexibility.

Decisions taken at this stage influence how the company is taxed, how profits are distributed and how easily the structure can adapt as the business grows.
Correcting these choices later is often more complex and costly than defining them properly from the beginning.

Tax clarity from the start

Tax obligations in Portugal should be assessed before operations begin.
This includes corporate income tax, VAT registration and withholding tax rules, all of which depend on how the business is structured and how activities are carried out.

Defining these elements early helps avoid misunderstandings, late registrations, and compliance risks once transactions begin.

Employment planning

Hiring locally brings additional obligations that require advance preparation.
Payroll processing, Social Security registrations and ongoing reporting apply from the moment an employment relationship is established.

Understanding these requirements before hiring ensures that employment structures are compliant from day one and aligned with the company’s operational plans.

Compliance starts with the first activity

Accounting and reporting obligations apply from the beginning of a company’s activity, even before revenue is generated.

Deadlines, record-keeping requirements and reporting duties are not automatic. They require clear processes and timely execution from the first day of operation.

A structured approach from the start helps ensure that compliance is managed consistently and without disruption.

A well-prepared start avoids costly adjustments

Entering a new market always involves complexity. However, with the right preparation, that complexity can be managed with clarity and confidence.

A well-prepared start reduces the need for later corrections, allows businesses to operate with greater predictability and supports sustainable growth in Portugal.

Understanding the regulatory, tax and operational framework from the outset is key to building a solid foundation.

For companies planning to start a business in Portugal, early clarification of structure and obligations is essential.
If further guidance is needed, companies may reach out through our contact form.

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by[email protected]Funding NewsNo Comments

PT2030 funding opportunities open for companies in Portugal

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PT2030 funding opportunities are outlined in the Call Publication Plan for 2026 recently released by the Portuguese Government, providing companies with visibility over upcoming funding under the Portugal 2030 programme.

This roadmap gives companies early visibility over upcoming calls, allowing investment projects to be prepared and aligned with eligibility requirements ahead of time.

 

 

€3.9 billion in funding calls expected in 2026

According to the published plan, around 220 funding calls, representing approximately €3.9 billion, are expected to be launched throughout 2026.

The programme focuses on competitiveness, innovation and sustainability, supporting projects across multiple sectors of the economy.

 

Early 2026 is expected to be particularly active

Nearly 100 calls are expected to open by April, making the first months of 2026 especially relevant for companies with investment projects under consideration.

Priority areas include productive and industrial innovation, digital transformation, research and development, decarbonisation, energy efficiency, sustainable mobility and water management.

Given the expected concentration of calls, early preparation will be essential.

 

Strategic Technologies (STEP) calls gain relevance

A key highlight of the plan is the launch of four Strategic Technologies for Europe Platform (STEP) calls, scheduled for the end of January, with a combined budget of approximately €1.1 billion.

These calls target high-impact projects in areas such as energy transition technologies, digital and deep-tech solutions, advanced manufacturing and biotechnology. For technology-driven companies, STEP funding is expected to play a particularly important role.

 

 

Why this matters for companies operating in Portugal

The Call Publication Plan introduces greater predictability into a competitive funding landscape. By knowing which calls are expected and when, companies can better align investment decisions, internal resources and project timelines.

In practice, this planning can significantly influence the quality and viability of funding applications.

 

How we support your PT2030 applications

At Oporto Accounting, we monitor developments under the Portugal 2030 programme and support companies throughout the funding process, from identifying suitable calls to structuring projects and supporting post-approval reporting.

With the right preparation, PT2030 funding can become a strategic tool to support innovation, competitiveness and long-term growth.

 

Take the next step

Companies considering investment projects in Portugal should begin aligning their plans with the funding calendar already announced.

With structured preparation and informed guidance, PT2030 opportunities can be approached realistically, turning public incentives into concrete business outcomes.

For further clarification on upcoming PT2030 funding opportunities, companies may reach out through our contact form.

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by[email protected]GrantsNo Comments

SIFIDE R&D tax credits

SIFIDE R&D tax credits are a corporate income tax incentive that allows companies to recover a significant portion of their Research and Development (R&D) expenses.

Businesses can recover between 32.5% and 82.5% of their annual R&D investment. Because this tax incentive covers expenses arising from a company’s normal business activities, such as personnel costs and material purchases, companies are not required to make additional or extraordinary investments, nor to define or structure projects in advance.

Programme details

  • Application deadline: Continuous

  • Beneficiary entities: Large companies, SMEs, micro-enterprises and startups

  • Type of benefit: Corporate income tax credit (IRC)

  • Benefit: Tax credit of 32.5% to 82.5% of R&D expenses

  • Minimum investment: Not applicable

  • Geographic scope: Mainland Portugal, Madeira and the Azores

 

What are SIFIDE R&D tax credits

SIFIDE II is an IRC tax credit that allows companies to recover part of their Research and Development (R&D) expenses.

The incentive applies to R&D expenditure incurred within the scope of the company’s normal activity and does not require prior project approval.

Further details on the SIFIDE framework are available on the official programme page.

How the tax credit works

SIFIDE II is structured around two components:

  • Base rate: 32.5% of R&D expenditure incurred during the period

  • Incremental rate: 50% of the increase in expenditure over the period, compared to the average of the previous two years, up to a maximum of €1.5 million

In practice, companies can recover up to 82.5% of their investment in R&D.

For companies with less than two financial years of experience that have not benefited from the incremental rate, there is a 15% increase on the base rate, resulting in a base rate of 47.5%.

If it is not possible to deduct the entire benefit due to insufficient tax collection, the surplus becomes a tax credit and can be deducted for up to 12 years.

Eligible R&D expenses

Eligible expenses under SIFIDE include:

Research

Expenditure to acquire new scientific or technical knowledge.

Development

Expenditure incurred by exploiting the results of research or other scientific or technical knowledge with a view to discovering or substantially improving raw materials, products, services or manufacturing processes.

Other eligible expenses

  • Costs of personnel involved in R&D activities (minimum NQF level 4)

  • Operating costs, up to 55% of staff costs

  • Acquisition of tangible assets, provided they are new or created for R&D activities (excluding buildings and land)

  • Hiring R&D services from public entities, beneficiaries of public utility status or entities recognised by ANI

  • Participation of managers in R&D institutions

  • Expenditure related to the participation of managers and staff in the management of R&D institutions

  • Participation in the capital of R&D institutions and contributions to public or private investment funds aimed at financing companies mainly dedicated to R&D

  • Registration, purchase and maintenance of patents

  • Acquisition of patents for R&D purposes (SMEs only)

  • R&D-related audits

Demonstration actions of funded R&D projects

Who can benefit from SIFIDE

SIFIDE applies to a wide range of companies, including large enterprises, SMEs, micro-enterprises and startups, provided they incur eligible R&D expenses.

The incentive is particularly relevant for companies that carry out research or development activities as part of their regular business operations.

Understanding the rules and eligibility criteria of each incentive is essential to assess its relevance and potential impact within a company’s broader investment and tax strategy.
For clarification or further information, reach out through our contact form.

by[email protected]Business SetupNo Comments

Carhartt WIP Lisbon store supported by Oporto Accounting

We are pleased to have supported Carhartt WIP (Work In Progress) in the establishment of its new store in Lisbon, located in the Chiado district, one of the city’s most emblematic commercial and cultural areas.

Oporto Accounting provided accounting and tax advisory services throughout the entire project, supporting the brand from the incorporation of the commercial company through to the opening of the store. This included guidance on corporate structuring, tax registration and ongoing compliance with Portuguese tax and regulatory requirements, ensuring a smooth and compliant market entry.

The successful opening of the new store reflects the importance of having reliable local support when establishing operations in a new country. For international brands entering the Portuguese market, understanding local tax obligations, accounting standards, and reporting requirements is essential to avoid delays and ensure long-term operational stability.

This project was developed in close collaboration with RSN Advogados, who led the legal advisory component of the process. Working alongside trusted legal partners allows us to provide integrated and structured support, combining legal, tax and accounting expertise under a coordinated approach. This collaboration ensured that all regulatory, corporate and contractual aspects of the project were aligned from the outset.

The opening of this new location further strengthens Carhartt WIP’s presence in Lisbon and reinforces the city’s position as an attractive destination for international brands. Portugal continues to draw foreign investment thanks to its stable regulatory framework, skilled workforce and growing consumer market, particularly in key urban centres such as Lisbon.

At Oporto Accounting, we support international companies throughout all stages of their establishment and expansion in Portugal. From company incorporation to ongoing accounting and tax compliance, our role is to provide clarity, reliability and continuous support, allowing our clients to focus on their business development with confidence.

Read the full article on ECO.

by[email protected]Funding NewsNo Comments

How corporate donations are recognised in Portugal

Corporate giving plays an important role in how companies contribute to social, cultural and environmental progress. In Portugal, donations made by businesses can also offer relevant tax benefits, provided that the contribution meets the rules set out in Article 62 of the Fiscal Benefit Code (Estatuto dos Benefícios Fiscais – EBF).

For many international companies, understanding how donations are recognised is essential to ensure their giving strategy is both meaningful and fully compliant. With the right structure, a corporate donation can support important causes while generating a measurable financial impact.

 

What corporate donations mean under Portuguese law

Corporate donations are recognised differently depending on the type of entity receiving the contribution. The applicable deduction rate, the limits and the enhanced benefits all vary based on this classification. Because of this, validating the eligibility of the recipient is a key step before any transfer is made.

Under Article 62 of the EBF, donations can fall into three main categories: public entities, private associations and charities, and private institutions operating in recognised areas of public interest.
For the official legal framework, the Fiscal Benefit Code is available on the Portuguese Tax Authority portal.

 

Donations to public entities

Public entities include the State, local governments, municipal associations and government-owned foundations. Contributions to these organisations may be fully deductible, and in several cases higher deduction rates apply.

Key recognition rules include:

  • Full deductibility with no limit for donations made directly to the State or public entities.
  • Enhanced deduction of 140% for donations with a social purpose.
  • Enhanced deduction of 120% for environmental, sports or educational purposes.
  • Enhanced deduction of 130% when the donation is formalised through an agreement with clearly defined objectives.

These enhanced rates mean that a company may deduct more than the actual amount donated, allowing corporate giving to have both social and financial impact.

 

Donations to private associations and charities

Private non-profit organisations may also receive deductible corporate donations, although they are subject to limits.

Key rules include:

  • A limit of 8‰ (0.8%) of annual revenue. For example, a company with €2,500,000 in revenue may deduct up to €20,000.
  • Eligible organisations include those focused on social solidarity, human rights, childcare, elderly care, EPE hospitals, treatment of drug addiction, or programmes related to cancer or HIV.
  • Enhanced deduction rates:
    • 140% for most social solidarity contributions.
    • 150% for maternity support programmes.

These benefits support corporate engagement with high-impact social causes across Portugal.

 

Donations to private institutions

Some private institutions also qualify for corporate donations under Article 62 when they operate in areas of scientific, educational or cultural interest.

Eligible entities include scientific research bodies, museums, libraries, schools and sports federations.

Key rules include:

  • A limit of 6‰ (0.6%) of annual revenue. Using the same example, a company with €2,500,000 in revenue may deduct up to €15,000.
  • Standard deduction rate of 120%.
  • Enhanced deduction of 140% when the donation supports kindergartens or preschools.

 

Why corporate giving matters for international companies

For foreign companies operating in Portugal, donations can become part of a broader ESG approach, supporting the communities in which they work and improving long-term stakeholder trust. When managed correctly, donations also contribute to a responsible tax strategy, allowing companies to benefit from recognised incentives while maintaining full compliance with Portuguese law.

Enhanced deduction rates can significantly increase the financial value of a donation. For example:

  • A €1,000 donation may generate a tax benefit of €200 (100%), €240 (120%) or €280 (140%).
  • A €5,000 donation may generate €1,000 (100%), €1,200 (120%) or €1,400 (140%).
  • A €10,000 donation may generate €2,000 (100%), €2,400 (120%) or €2,800 (140%).

These examples illustrate how companies can amplify the impact of their contributions when aligned with the correct category and documentation.

 

Validating the recipient

To ensure that a donation qualifies for tax benefits, the receiving organisation must be properly registered under Portuguese law. If the institution is not legally recognised, the tax authority may refuse the benefit. This makes verification an essential step in any corporate giving plan.

Proper documentation must also be kept, including donation receipts, proof of eligibility and copies of any required agreements.

 

How Oporto Accounting supports your giving strategy

At Oporto Accounting, we support international companies in structuring their giving with clarity. Our team ensures that donations comply with Article 62 of the EBF and that each contribution is aligned with the company’s objectives.
For an overview of how we support businesses with their wider tax responsibilities, visit our Consultancy page.

Our support includes:

  • Assessing whether the donation qualifies for enhanced deduction rates.
  • Validating the registration status of the receiving organisation.
  • Reviewing limits based on annual revenue.
  • Ensuring proper documentation for tax recognition.
  • Integrating donations into a responsible, compliant financial strategy.

Our mission is to make doing business in Portugal simpler and more transparent for international clients. With clear guidance, companies can give with confidence, knowing each contribution is both impactful and fully compliant.

 

Take the next step

Corporate giving in Portugal offers valuable opportunities for companies to support meaningful causes while benefiting from recognised tax incentives. With the right structure, donations can become a strategic part of your organisation’s long-term vision.

If you would like support in planning or validating your corporate giving, our team is here to help you build a clear and reliable approach.

SME Fund 2025: Supporting European SMEs in protecting their ideas
by[email protected]Funding NewsNo Comments

SME Fund 2025: Financial support to protect your ideas and grow with confidence

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Expanding a business in Europe often comes with challenges, particularly when it comes to protecting innovation. Intellectual property is one of the most valuable assets a company can own, yet, for many small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), managing this process can feel complex and expensive.

To make it simpler, the European Commission and the European Union Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO) have launched the SME Fund 2025, a financial support programme that helps SMEs safeguard their intellectual property while reducing costs.

 

What is the SME Fund 2025?

The SME Fund 2025 is an initiative of the European Commission, implemented by the EUIPO, designed to provide financial support for intellectual property protection across the European Union.

Running until 5 December 2025, the fund offers voucher-based grants that reimburse part of the costs associated with registering trade marks, designs, patents and plant varieties.

By reducing these expenses, the EUIPO SME Fund aims to make intellectual property protection accessible to more small and medium-sized businesses, supporting innovation, growth and competitiveness in every sector.

Funds are limited and allocated on a first-come, first-served basis, meaning early application is essential. Importantly, the grant must be approved before any fees are paid.

 

 

Why it matters for international entrepreneurs

For international companies expanding to Portugal, the SME Fund 2025 represents a valuable opportunity to protect innovation while establishing a stronger position in the European market.

Securing intellectual property rights gives businesses exclusive control over their brands, inventions and designs, ensuring that growth is sustainable and legally protected.

At Oporto Accounting, we help clients navigate these programmes with clarity, combining financial expertise and local knowledge so that every step feels predictable and transparent.

 

What the EUIPO SME Fund covers

The SME Fund 2025 provides four types of vouchers, each designed to support a different area of intellectual property:

  • Voucher 1 – IP Scan
    Reimburses up to 90% of the cost of an IP Scan, a professional analysis of your company’s intangible assets and IP strategy (up to €1,350).

  • Voucher 2 – Trade marks and designs
    Reimburses up to 75% of national and EU application fees and 50% for international filings (up to €700).

  • Voucher 3 – Patents
    Covers up to 75% of national patent fees and prior-art searches and 50% of attorney fees for European filings, with total support of up to €3,500.

  • Voucher 4 – Plant variety rights
    Reimburses up to 75% of the fees for Community plant variety protection (up to €1,500).

Each SME can apply for multiple vouchers, with a combined maximum of €7,050 in financial support.

 

Who can apply

All EU-based SMEs are eligible to apply.
In the context of the EUIPO SME Fund, an SME is defined as a business with fewer than 250 employees, an annual turnover below €50 million or a balance-sheet total under €43 million.

For international entrepreneurs establishing or expanding in Portugal, this means that any locally registered company qualifies as an EU-based SME, and can therefore benefit from the programme.

 

 

How to apply for the SME Fund 2025

Applying for the SME Fund is a straightforward process if managed with the right preparation:

1. Select your vouchers and submit your application through the official EUIPO SME Fund portal.

2. Wait for approval before paying any fees, applications made prior to approval are not eligible.

3. Carry out your IP activity, such as filing a trade mark, design or patent.

4. Request reimbursement, submitting proof of the fees paid to receive your refund.

Applicants will need a VAT certificate or equivalent, a bank statement showing the company name and IBAN, and, if applicable, a declaration of honour for any external representative involved.

How Oporto Accounting supports you

At Oporto Accounting, we understand that protecting intellectual property and accessing European funding can seem complex, especially when running a business across borders.

We offer tailored support to make the process clear, compliant and efficient:

  • Eligibility assessment and strategic planning – identifying which vouchers best fit your business goals.

  • Application management – handling the submission and ensuring compliance with EUIPO requirements.

  • Post-approval support – managing voucher activation and reimbursement claims accurately and on time.

Our mission is to make doing business in Portugal simpler, clearer and fully transparent for international clients. With our guidance, you can focus on your growth while we ensure every financial and regulatory detail is handled with precision.

If you’re exploring additional funding opportunities, learn more about our Incentives service, developed to support companies in structuring their business effectively and making confident, well-informed financial decisions.

Take the next step

The SME Fund 2025 offers an excellent opportunity for SMEs to access financial support for intellectual property protection.

Because funds are granted on a first-come, first-served basis, preparation is key.
Start planning early to secure your share of this support and protect your innovation in Portugal and across the EU.

At Oporto Accounting, we bring clarity to complexity, helping you protect your ideas and grow with confidence.

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by[email protected]Business SetupNo Comments

Portugal sees a rise in new businesses, while closures and insolvencies decline

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Recent data from the Informa D&B Barometer reveals encouraging signs for the Portuguese economy. Between January and September 2025, 40,465 new companies were created, marking a 2.4% increase compared to the same period last year. At the same time, company closures and insolvencies have decreased, suggesting a healthier and more confident business environment. According to the study, 7,910 companies closed and 1,502 entered insolvency proceedings by September, representing a 5.2% drop compared to 2024.

 

 

Strong growth across key sectors

Some industries are leading the way in business creation. Real estate grew by 22%, construction by 13%, business services by 4.8%, and agriculture by 20%. Meanwhile, sectors such as transport (-30%) and retail (-8.5%) recorded fewer company incorporations. Insolvencies have fallen particularly in manufacturing (-26%) and textiles/fashion (-37%), indicating stabilisation in traditional industries.

 

 

What this means for investors and entrepreneurs

These figures reflect a positive shift in Portugal’s business climate, especially for those looking to establish or expand their operations here. Three key takeaways stand out: greater business confidence, as more companies are being launched and fewer are closing; sectoral opportunities, with real estate, construction and business services continuing to attract strong investment; and reduced structural risk, with the drop in insolvencies pointing to a more stable environment for new ventures.

 

 

 A favourable moment to enter the Portuguese market

For foreign investors, this is a promising time to explore opportunities in Portugal. However, establishing a company in a new country still requires careful planning, from tax registration and payroll to ongoing compliance.

 

 

At Oporto Accounting, we provide tailored support for each stage of your business journey, helping international entrepreneurs and companies start and grow in Portugal with confidence.

Get in touch to learn how we can support your business setup and tax compliance needs.

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