Portugal opens €182.5 million innovation fund for micro‑SMEs

Portugal’s Ministry of Economy and Territorial Cohesion has launched a competition offering €182.5 million to support productive innovation by micro, small and medium enterprises on the mainland. The scheme, open for applications until 30 September 2026, provides co‑financing of up to 60 % for projects that increase capacity, diversify production or create new establishments, with a focus on low‑density territories.

Of the total budget, €100 million is managed through the Compete 2030 programme, while the remainder is allocated to regional programmes – North 2030, Centre 2030, Lisbon 2030, Alentejo 2030 and Algarve 2030. The ministry highlighted that “discriminating positively the low‑density territories reinforces territorial cohesion” and that “the appeal to the interior lies in investments that can create jobs and attract people”. The funding targets innovative, digital and sustainable solutions that build on research and development to boost qualified employment.