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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:
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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:
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Eligibility assessment and strategic planning – identifying which vouchers best fit your business goals.
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Application management – handling the submission and ensuring compliance with EUIPO requirements.
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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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