SME Fund 2026: Applications open to support the protection of intellectual property rights

SÉRVULO PUBLICATIONS 05 Feb 2026

Applications are open, as of 2 February 2026, for the new edition of the SME Fund – Ideas Powered for Business, an initiative of the European Commission, implemented by the European Union Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO), aimed at supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the protection of their intellectual property rights.

This grant scheme allows SMEs to obtain partial reimbursement of official fees related to the registration and management of intellectual property assets, including trademarks, designs, patents, plant varieties, and IP Scan services.

SMEs established in the European Union, within the meaning of the European Commission definition (fewer than 250 employees and annual turnover of up to EUR 50 million), including self employed entrepreneurs, are eligible to apply for the SME Fund 2026.

The 2026 edition of the SME Fund provides for the allocation of reimbursement vouchers, with reimbursement rates ranging from 50% to 90%, depending on the type of service.

Applications are open until 4 December 2026, or until the available budget for each category is exhausted. Funds are allocated on a first come, first served basis, and early submission is therefore recommended. Once approved, the support is granted in the form of vouchers, which allow reimbursement of eligible expenses after payment of the corresponding official fees.

The proper definition of an intangible asset protection strategy, combined with the effective use of the SME Fund, can be decisive in maximising the benefits of this support. Appropriate legal advice ensures compliance with formal requirements and the efficient use of the available vouchers.

For further information on the SME Fund 2026 or on the protection of intellectual property rights, please contact us.

Mariana Costa Pinto | mcp@servulo.com