Disclaimer!
The content in this SMEs corner is provided for educational purposes only, and does not constitute legal, tax, or business advice. For guidance tailored to your specific circumstances, please consult a qualified professional.
Explore EU funding opportunities for SMEs
Commercialising IP may require financial resources that go beyond an SME's own funds. The European Union offers a range of funding tools and programmes that can help SMEs protect, develop, and bring their IP to market. The most relevant ones are set out below.
EUIPO SME Fund
The SME Fund is a grant scheme designed to help EU-based SMEs protect their IP rights. Grants are awarded as vouchers that can be used to claim reimbursement for the costs of IP registration, as well as IP Scan services. SMEs can save up to 75% on IP right applications and up to 90% on an IP Scan, depending on their country or region. The SME Fund opens annually.
Check current availability and apply
Horizon Europe
Horizon Europe is the EU's largest research and innovation programme, with a budget of €95.5 billion running to 2027. Within the programme, the European Innovation Council (EIC), was established to support breakthrough innovations across the full cycle from basic research to commercialisation. It funds projects at three key stages: early breakthrough research (Pathfinder), market preparation (Transition), and scale-up (Accelerator). For further guidance on IP management within Horizon Europe, see:
Magali Contardi, 'Managing Intellectual Property in Horizon Europe Projects' (4iP Council).
EIC Accelerator
The EIC Accelerator is a funding programme under Horizon Europe. It has been particularly designed for SMEs and start-ups with an innovative product or service ready to scale. It offers a combination of grant funding of up to €2.5 million and equity investment of up to €10 million, alongside coaching, mentoring, and networking opportunities.
Find out more about EIC Accelerator
Further tools and resources
The following tools may also be useful depending on your stage of development and sector.
- Deep Tech Finder — helps SMEs and start-ups with patented technologies connect with investors and partners.
Available as a web tool and app - EU Funding & Tenders Portal — allows SMEs to search EU funding calls and support programmes.
- Strategic Technologies for Europe Platform (STEP) — provides an interactive overview of funding opportunities in strategic technology areas.
- Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions — offers research-oriented funding opportunities that may suit SMEs engaged in research projects.
National funding opportunities
Several national funding schemes are also available for EU SMEs to assist with IP registration and commercialisation. Some of these are below.
- WIPANO (Germany) — Covers 50% of eligible expenses for patent search, filing, and commercialisation support, up to €16,000 in total. Available to SMEs that have not filed a patent or utility model in the last three years. See more.
- Innovation Box (Netherlands) — Taxes profits from innovation activities at a lower rate instead of the standard corporate tax rate. See more.
- Pass PI (France) — Funds 50% of the service cost of hiring an IP expert for patent, IP valuation, design, or IP tax services for eligible SMEs up to €3,000. See more.
