Alentejo Litoral launches 5 million euro R&D fund

The Alentejo Litoral region has launched a 5 million euro funding initiative to support business research and development (R&D) projects. Integrated into the Alentejo 2030 Regional Program, the call for applications, titled “SI I&D Empresarial para uma Transição Justa”, aims to bolster innovation, competitiveness, and the acceleration of climate and energy transitions.

Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are eligible to apply, either individually or in partnership with Non-Business Entities of the Research and Innovation System (ENESII). The funding, provided by the Just Transition Fund (FTJ), can cover up to 80% of eligible expenses for SMEs and up to 85% for ENESII.

Strategic focus areas for the projects include the agri-food, renewable energy, and tourism sectors. Supported activities include industrial research and experimental development aligned with the Smart Specialization Strategy (RIS3). Applications are open until December 21, 2026, with evaluation processes scheduled in two phases ending in September and December 2026.