- March 10, 2025
- Posted by: Toranja Solutions
- Category: Business plans
New Incentives to Boost Competitiveness of Startups in Portugal
Contents
1. New Incentive System Boosts Competitiveness of Startups in Portugal
The Portuguese government has recently launched the Incentive System for the Competitiveness of Startups, an initiative aimed at strengthening the national business ecosystem, focusing on micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises, including startups. This system, formalized by Ordinance No. 49/2025/1 of February 20, is part of the “Accelerate the Economy” program, which includes 60 strategic measures to drive innovation and business competitiveness in Portugal.
2. Objectives of the Incentive System
The main goal of this incentive system is to stimulate the creation, investment, growth, and internationalization of the most innovative companies in the country. By providing non-refundable financial support, the initiative aims to promote disruptive innovation, retain and attract talent, and facilitate the transfer of scientific and technological knowledge from higher education institutions to the business sector.
3. Key Support Modalities
-
Voucher Deep Tech:
- 60,000€ to support national deep tech companies in participating in international programs.
- This funding covers areas such as intellectual property management, regulatory processes, investment strategies, prototyping, and market development.
- Designed to enhance the technological maturity of startups.
-
Voucher Go to EIC Accelerator:
- 10,000€ to help with the preparation of applications to the EIC Accelerator, a European initiative that funds highly innovative startups.
- This voucher covers costs related to the application process, including graphic design, video production, and pitch decks.
-
Start from Knowledge Program:
- 30,000€ to support the creation of startups in the academic environment.
- Aims to transfer scientific and technological knowledge from higher education institutions to the business sector.
- Funds can be used for incubation, acceleration programs, marketing strategies, and pilot projects.
4. Eligibility Criteria and Application Process
To qualify for these incentives, companies must:
- Be legally established in Portugal.
- Have regularized tax and social security status.
- Maintain organized accounting if legally required.
- Not be in financial distress and present a positive net position.
- Provide proof of SME status
Applications will be evaluated by the technical support team of the Innovation, Technology, and Circular Economy Fund, with funding decisions expected within 30 business days of submission.
5. Expected Impact on the Entrepreneurial Ecosystem
This incentive system is expected to strengthen the Portuguese entrepreneurial ecosystem by promoting the creation of new companies, boosting technological innovation, and facilitating the internationalization of national startups. By providing targeted financial support, the government aims to create a more entrepreneur-friendly environment, encouraging innovation and competitiveness in the global market.
Conclusion
The Incentive System for the Competitiveness of Startups in Portugal aims to boost innovation and international growth for SMEs and startups. With non-refundable financial support, the government seeks to drive technological development and enhance the country’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Key Points Recap:
- Voucher Deep Tech: €60,000 to support deep tech companies in intellectual property and market expansion.
- Voucher Go to EIC Accelerator: €10,000 for EIC Accelerator applications, covering design and pitch costs.
- Start from Knowledge: €30,000 to promote the creation of startups from academic research.
- Eligibility: Companies must be legally established with a positive net position.
- Quick Decisions: Funding decisions within 30 business days.
By simplifying access to financial support and focusing on innovation and scalability, this system is set to strengthen Portugal’s position as a competitive hub for startups.
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