Intellectual property (IP) protection is an essential element for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), ensuring them a competitive advantage and legal security. The SME Fund 2025, managed and implemented by the European Union Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO), offers financial support to SMEs in the European Union and in Ukraine (from territories under the control of the Ukrainian government) for the protection of IP rights, facilitating access to registration services and specialized consultancy.
What is the SME Fund 2025?
The SME Fund is a financing program designed to support small and medium-sized enterprises by providing partial reimbursements for fees associated with intellectual property protection, including trademarks, patents, industrial designs, and plant varieties. This initiative is part of the EU’s strategy to strengthen innovation and competitiveness in the market.
What types of funding are available?
SMEs can access several types of funding through the SME Fund 2025, structured as follows:
| Voucher Type | Description | Maximum Reimbursement Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Voucher for Trademarks and Industrial Designs | 75% reimbursement of official fees for registering trademarks, designs, and models... | €700 |
| Voucher for Patents | 50% reimbursement of legal costs for drafting and filing... | €3,500 |
| Voucher for Plant Varieties | 75% reimbursement of the application and online examination fee... | €1,500 |
| Voucher for Consultancy Services | 90% reimbursement of the costs of pre-diagnostic and IP portfolio analysis services... | €1,350 |
How can funding be accessed?
The application process involves the following steps:
- Register on the EUIPO platform dedicated to the SME Fund (create an account).
- Submit the grant application along with the required documents – this involves completing a form and attaching documents such as the VAT certificate, the applicant’s bank account statement, and, if applicable, the power of attorney for the designated person.
- Application evaluation and response within 10 working days of entering the evaluation process.
- Approval and issuance of the voucher, which can be used to reimburse eligible costs within the validity period.
- Carry out eligible IP activities – file applications and pay the associated fees.
- Request reimbursement of expenses – this will be paid directly into the SME’s bank account provided in the submitted form.
Application Period
The SME Fund 2025 is open for applications from February 3, 2025, to December 5, 2025. Funds are limited and awarded on a first-come, first-served basis, so SMEs are encouraged to apply as soon as possible to benefit from financial support.
Conclusion
The SME Fund 2025 represents a strategic opportunity for small and medium-sized enterprises in Romania and across the European Union to protect and leverage their innovations. By accessing this financial support, SMEs can strengthen their market position and avoid the risks associated with the lack of IP protection.
The budget for 2024 was estimated at €18.85 million for vouchers one and two (IP Scan and trademark/design protection) and €1.15 million for vouchers three and four (patents and plant varieties). The total budget available for co-financing actions under the SME Fund 2025 is €18 million, according to the EUIPO.
For specialized consultancy and assistance in the application process, reach us out!
