Grants & Funding "Portugal"
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Grants & Funding
Portugal offers a variety of government funding programs for businesses, with a focus on supporting innovation, R&D, and growth both locally and internationally. Below is an in-depth overview of the main funding programs,
StartUP Portugal
As part of the National Strategy for Entrepreneurship, the XVI Constitutional Government of the Portuguese Republic initiated the StartUp Portugal programme. This programme is organized around three main areas: ecosystem, financing, and internationalization, and it includes 15 measures designed to support entrepreneurship. The aim is to foster an entrepreneurial spirit and provide assistance to entrepreneurs and businesses, enhancing their sustainability and ability to create jobs. Below are 9 measures that specifically focus on improving access to capital.
a) StartUp Voucher
The Startup Voucher is a program in Portugal designed to support aspiring entrepreneurs. It offers financial aid and mentorship to individuals seeking to launch innovative business ideas. The initiative is aimed at fostering entrepreneurship and boosting the national economy. Participants can receive up to €200,000 in funding, along with networking and advisory services to help them succeed.
1. Purpose
- The Startup Voucher program aims to provide financial support to early-stage entrepreneurs in Portugal to help them develop and validate their business ideas.
- It encourages individuals to transition from concept to execution, facilitating the launch of innovative startups and fostering a vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem talk to Susan…
2. Eligibility Criteria
Target Group:
• Individuals aged 18 and over who are looking to create a startup.
• First-time entrepreneurs without prior business experience within the last five years.
Business Idea:
• The proposed business idea must be innovative and have potential for growth and market viability.
• Startups in any sector can apply, but the emphasis is on technology and innovation-driven projects.
Registration:
• Applicants must not have previously received funding under other government initiatives for the same project.
Commitment:
• Entrepreneurs must commit to dedicating full-time efforts to their startup during the voucher period talk to Susan…
3. Funding Amount
The Startup Voucher provides up to €5,000 in financial support.
This funding can be used to cover living expenses and initial costs associated with developing the business idea talk to Susan…
4. De Minimis
Yes, the Startup Voucher falls under the De Minimis aid rule.
This means that the total public aid received by a company, including the Startup Voucher, should not exceed €200,000 over a three-year period. This regulation ensures that the funding does not distort competition within the market talk to Susan…
5. Application Website
b) Startup Portugal Program
The Startup Portugal Program is an initiative by the Portuguese government to support the growth of startups and innovation across the country. It provides a range of services, including financial support, tax incentives, and access to networks of investors and mentors. The program aims to foster entrepreneurship, attract foreign investment, and enhance Portugal’s position as a hub for innovation. It encompasses various initiatives such as the Startup Voucher, the National Incubator Network, and other support mechanisms tailored to different stages of business development.
1. Purpose
- The Startup Portugal Program is designed to create a supportive ecosystem for startups in Portugal.
- It aims to promote entrepreneurship, innovation, and competitiveness by providing a framework of support, resources, and funding opportunities for early-stage companies.
- The program focuses on fostering collaboration between startups, investors, and the public sector to enhance the startup ecosystem and facilitate growth.talk to Susan…
2. Eligibility Criteria
- Target Group:
• The program is primarily aimed at startups and entrepreneurs operating in Portugal.
• Startups must be registered and have a business plan that demonstrates innovation and market potential. - Business Stage:
• It caters to various stages of business development, including ideation, early-stage startups, and companies looking to scale. - Sector:
• While it supports a wide range of sectors, there is a strong emphasis on technology, innovation, and scalable business models. - Registration:
• Startups must be legally incorporated and meet specific criteria set by the program administrators talk to Susan…
3. Funding Amount
- The funding amount can vary based on the specific support programs and initiatives within the Startup Portugal framework.
- Various funding instruments under this umbrella, such as grants, loans, and vouchers, can provide financial support ranging from €1,000 to €200,000, depending on the specific initiative.
- The program also facilitates access to additional funding sources, including venture capital and angel investors talk to Susan…
4. De Minimis
- Yes, funding received through the Startup Portugal Program is generally subject to the De Minimis aid rule.
- This means that the total public funding received by a company, including grants or vouchers from the program, should not exceed €200,000 over a three-year period, ensuring compliance with EU regulations on state aid.
5. Application website
c) Scale Up Portugal
Scale Up Portugal is a government initiative aimed at helping high-potential startups scale and expand both locally and internationally. It offers specialized support, including access to funding, mentorship, and networking opportunities with global investors and industry experts. The program targets innovative companies that have already achieved a certain level of growth and are looking to accelerate their business development.
1. Purpose
- The Scale Up Portugal program is designed to support startups with high growth potential that are ready to expand beyond the Portuguese market.
- It aims to accelerate the scaling process for established startups by providing financial support, access to mentorship, international networking, and resources tailored for companies entering new markets.
- The program focuses on helping businesses strengthen their market presence, develop robust operational strategies, and attract global investors talk to Susan…
2. Eligibility Criteria
- Business Stage:
• Targeted at startups that have already established their product-market fit and are generating consistent revenue.
• Companies should demonstrate a track record of growth and show readiness to scale operations internationally. - Size:
• Generally aimed at small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) registered and operating in Portugal. - Innovation and Growth Potential:
• Startups must operate in sectors with high growth potential, such as technology, e-commerce, health, or renewable energy.
• Companies should demonstrate innovative product or service offerings with strong competitive advantages. - Commitment to Expansion:
• Applicants must present a clear internationalization plan, detailing how they intend to use Scale Up Portugal’s resources to enter or strengthen their position in global markets talk to Susan…
3. Funding Amount
- The exact funding amount can vary, depending on the project’s scope and the specific support needs of the startup.
- The program typically provides access to financial support packages, which may range from €10,000 to €200,000. Funding may be disbursed in stages as the company achieves specific growth or internationalization milestones.
- Scale Up Portugal also offers non-financial support, including mentorship from industry experts, guidance on international market entry, and connections with potential investors talk to Susan…
4. De Minimis
- Yes, funding received under Scale Up Portugal is subject to De Minimis aid regulations.
- This means that any company participating in the program should not exceed a total of €200,000 in public funding over a three-year period, in line with EU state aid rules talk to Susan…
5. Application Website
c) Scale Up Portugal
Scale Up Portugal is a government initiative aimed at helping high-potential startups scale and expand both locally and internationally. It offers specialized support, including access to funding, mentorship, and networking opportunities with global investors and industry experts. The program targets innovative companies that have already achieved a certain level of growth and are looking to accelerate their business development.
1. Purpose
- The Scale Up Portugal program is designed to support startups with high growth potential that are ready to expand beyond the Portuguese market.
- It aims to accelerate the scaling process for established startups by providing financial support, access to mentorship, international networking, and resources tailored for companies entering new markets.
- The program focuses on helping businesses strengthen their market presence, develop robust operational strategies, and attract global investors talk to Susan…
2. Eligibility Criteria
- Business Stage:
• Targeted at startups that have already established their product-market fit and are generating consistent revenue.
• Companies should demonstrate a track record of growth and show readiness to scale operations internationally. - Size:
• Generally aimed at small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) registered and operating in Portugal. - Innovation and Growth Potential:
• Startups must operate in sectors with high growth potential, such as technology, e-commerce, health, or renewable energy.
• Companies should demonstrate innovative product or service offerings with strong competitive advantages. - Commitment to Expansion:
• Applicants must present a clear internationalization plan, detailing how they intend to use Scale Up Portugal’s resources to enter or strengthen their position in global markets talk to Susan…
3. Funding Amount
- The exact funding amount can vary, depending on the project’s scope and the specific support needs of the startup.
- The program typically provides access to financial support packages, which may range from €10,000 to €200,000. Funding may be disbursed in stages as the company achieves specific growth or internationalization milestones.
- Scale Up Portugal also offers non-financial support, including mentorship from industry experts, guidance on international market entry, and connections with potential investors talk to Susan…
4. De Minimis
- Yes, funding received under Scale Up Portugal is subject to De Minimis aid regulations.
- This means that any company participating in the program should not exceed a total of €200,000 in public funding over a three-year period, in line with EU state aid rules talk to Susan…
5. Application Website
d) Funding and Investment Support
Funding and investment support in Portugal is designed to help startups and businesses at various stages of growth, from early-stage ideas to scaling ventures. The government, alongside private investors and financial institutions, offers a range of programs, grants, and initiatives to support entrepreneurship.
1. Purpose
- Funding and Investment Support aims to provide Portuguese startups and small-to-medium enterprises (SMEs) with access to capital, either through direct funding or by facilitating investment opportunities.
- The initiative is designed to accelerate innovation, enable business expansion, and improve competitiveness both nationally and internationally.
- It offers a range of support, from venture capital and grants to debt instruments and investment matching, allowing startups to find financial backing suited to their growth stage and specific needs talk to Susan…
2. Eligibility Criteria
- Target Businesses:
• Primarily aimed at startups and SMEs registered in Portugal, with a focus on scalable businesses with high growth potential.
• Companies operating in sectors that drive innovation—like technology, clean energy, life sciences, and digital solutions—are given priority. - Business Stage:
• Open to companies at various growth stages, from early-stage startups to established SMEs looking to expand operations. - Innovative or High-Potential Products:
• Eligible companies typically must show innovation in their business model, products, or services, along with a clear roadmap for growth. - Financial Stability and Viability:
• Startups and SMEs are required to present solid financial plans and projections that demonstrate the feasibility of the proposed use of funds, ensuring they can responsibly manage the investment talk to Susan…
3. Funding Amount
- The funding amounts under this program vary depending on the type of support accessed. Typical funding ranges include:
o Grants and subsidies: Can range from €5,000 to €200,000, depending on the project’s scope and alignment with the program’s objectives.
o Equity and Venture Capital: Some startups receive investment through venture capital programs, often matching private investor funds, which can range from €50,000 to €2 million.
o Debt Instruments: Low-interest loans and credit lines are available, with flexible terms to support growth activities. - Funding amounts are determined based on the startup’s needs, the business plan, and investor or funding program requirements talk to Susan…
4. De Minimis
- Yes, any grant-based financial assistance under the Funding and Investment Support program is generally subject to De Minimis aid regulations.
- This means that the total public funding a company receives should not exceed €200,000 over three fiscal years, aligning with EU rules to avoid market distortion.
- Funding provided through equity investment may have different limits, but companies should confirm the specific terms with each funding program talk to Susan…
5. Application Website
e) Talent and Skills Development
In Portugal, talent and skills development, funding is focused on nurturing human capital, fostering innovation, and equipping the workforce with the skills necessary to thrive in an evolving economy. Several government-backed programs, initiatives, and funding mechanisms support education, training, and skills development, especially in the context of entrepreneurship and technological innovation.
1. Purpose
- The Talent and Skills Development program is designed to help Portuguese companies, especially startups and SMEs, build a skilled workforce by investing in training, upskilling, and talent acquisition.
- Its primary goal is to boost the competitiveness of Portuguese businesses by addressing skills gaps, enhancing innovation potential, and supporting the retention of high-potential employees.
- The program supports both in-company training initiatives and partnerships with educational institutions, promoting continuous learning and workforce adaptability in evolving sectors like technology, digitalization, and green energy talk to Susan…
2. Eligibility Criteria
Targeted Beneficiaries:
- The program is open to Portuguese businesses, with a focus on startups and SMEs, that wish to develop or enhance the skills of their workforce.
- Companies must be legally registered and operating in Portugal.
Training Program Plans:
- Companies are generally required to submit a comprehensive training or talent development plan, detailing the objectives, type of training, and expected outcomes of the skill-building activities.
- The program is particularly geared toward companies in industries with high skill demands, such as tech, engineering, healthcare, and sustainable energy.
Focus on Growth and Innovation:
- Companies should demonstrate how the skills development initiative aligns with their growth objectives and contributes to overall business innovation.
Commitment to Retain Talent:
- Priority is often given to businesses with concrete strategies for retaining trained employees, thereby contributing to stable job growth within Portugal talk to Susan…
3. Funding Amount
- Funding amounts can vary widely depending on the scale and scope of the talent development initiative, with typical ranges being:
- Training Grants: Grants for in-house or external training programs may range from €5,000 to €100,000, covering costs associated with curriculum development, instructor fees, or learning materials.
- Internship and Talent Acquisition Support: Financial assistance for hiring interns or recent graduates, with stipends often around €2,000 to €10,000 per individual, can also be part of the program.
- The funding amount is based on the specific needs of the business, the scope of the training program, and the projected impact on the company’s workforce development talk to Susan…
4. De Minimis
- Yes, this program typically falls under De Minimis aid regulations, meaning that the total public funding a company receives should not exceed €200,000 over a three-year period, in line with EU state aid rules.
- This regulation ensures that companies stay within the limits while accessing multiple public funding sources talk to Susan…
5. Application Website
f) Internationalization Support
Internationalization support in Portugal is designed to help businesses expand beyond local markets and tap into global opportunities. The Portuguese government, along with various private and public institutions, provides a range of services, funding, and resources to assist companies in internationalizing their products, services, and operations.
1. Purpose
- The Internationalization Support program aims to help Portuguese businesses, particularly startups and SMEs, enter and establish themselves in international markets.
- Its primary focus is on boosting Portugal’s economic footprint globally by facilitating access to new customers, networks, and resources outside Portugal.
- This program helps companies cover the costs associated with international expansion, including market research, trade show participation, marketing campaigns, and adaptation of products or services to meet foreign regulations talk to Susan…
2. Eligibility Criteria
- Targeted Businesses:
- Open to Portuguese businesses that are legally registered and have a strategic interest in entering foreign markets, particularly startups and SMEs with high export potential.
- Export Readiness:
- Companies are expected to demonstrate that they are “export-ready” and have a product or service with a viable market abroad.
- Typically, companies will need to submit an internationalization plan outlining their goals, target markets, and strategies for international growth.
- Sector Focus:
- The program is open to most industries, but preference is often given to high-growth sectors with strong potential for international competitiveness, such as tech, manufacturing, green energy, and healthcare.
- Commitment to Innovation:
- Priority may be given to companies whose products or services are innovative and aligned with global demand trends, as this can enhance their competitiveness on an international scale talk to Susan…
3. Funding Amount
- Funding amounts can vary depending on the scale and specifics of the internationalization project, but typical support includes:
- Grants: Financial assistance ranging from €10,000 to €300,000 to cover up to 50% of eligible costs associated with international expansion.
- Loans: Low-interest loans and credit lines are also available to support specific expenses, such as market research, establishing a physical presence abroad, or launching local marketing campaigns
- The exact funding amount and type depend on the project’s size, the chosen market, and the projected benefits of internationalizing the business talk to Susan…
4. De Minimis
- Yes, the Internationalization Support program generally falls under the De Minimis aid regulations, meaning that the total funding received should not exceed €200,000 over three consecutive years.
- This regulation applies to all cumulative state aid and is intended to prevent excessive subsidization that could distort competition within the EU talk to Susan…
5. Application Website
g) The Public Policy Advocacy
The Public Policy Advocacy funding instrument by Business Portugal aims to bridge the gap between policymakers and businesses, particularly startups and SMEs, to ensure that the evolving needs of the business community are represented in governmental policies.
1. Purpose
The Public Policy Advocacy program is designed to enable Portuguese business associations, clusters, and networks to advocate for policies that foster a supportive environment for innovation and business growth.
It aims to ensure that policies align with the evolving demands of industries and the startup ecosystem, addressing regulatory barriers, promoting economic growth, and enhancing international competitiveness.
The program also seeks to drive collaboration between government and the private sector, ensuring that policy changes support key sectors and foster sustainable development talk to Susan…
2. Eligibility Criteria
Eligible Entities:
- Primarily open to industry associations, professional clusters, and networks that represent specific sectors or the broader business community in Portugal.
- Eligibility may extend to private non-profit entities with a mission focused on promoting entrepreneurship, innovation, and economic growth.
Policy Advocacy Focus:
- Eligible entities must present a clear agenda focused on public policy change that addresses specific challenges faced by Portuguese businesses or certain sectors.
- The advocacy plan should be evidence-based and aimed at fostering improvements in areas like innovation, digital transformation, sustainability, and international competitiveness.
Collaboration with Government and Stakeholders:
- Preference is given to organizations with a history of engaging with government bodies, regulatory agencies, or international trade organizations to advocate for policy enhancements talk to Susan…
3. Funding Amount
- Funding varies depending on the scope and significance of the advocacy project, with amounts typically ranging from:
• €10,000 to €150,000 for larger initiatives involving multiple stakeholders, in-depth research, or broad-based policy reform efforts.
• Financial support is available to cover costs associated with research, data collection, outreach activities, and policy proposal drafting.
• Exact funding levels are determined based on the project’s potential impact on the business landscape and alignment with Portugal’s economic priorities talk to Susan…
4. De Minimis
- Yes, the Public Policy Advocacy program generally falls under De Minimis aid regulations, meaning that any entity benefiting from it should not exceed €200,000 in cumulative state aid over a three-year period.
- This ensures compliance with EU regulations to prevent excessive public funding that could distort competition talk to Susan…
5. Application Website