SME Fund 2024 Relaunched

To support innovation and enhance the competitiveness of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) within the European Union, the SME Fund (Small and Medium Enterprises Fund) has been relaunched for a limited period, starting on September 16, 2024. This initiative aims to strengthen the capacity of SMEs to protect their intellectual property (IP) assets by providing financial resources and specialized support for the efficient registration and management of these rights.

The SME Fund, designed to facilitate SME access to services for the protection of intellectual property, serves as a crucial mechanism for companies seeking to maintain a competitive advantage in an increasingly complex global business environment. The protection of trademarks, patents, and industrial designs is a strategic priority for any innovative enterprise, and this program offers a favorable framework for SMEs to secure and capitalize on their intellectual property assets.

The relaunch of the program in 2024 presents a valuable opportunity for SMEs across all EU member states, enabling them to protect their innovations and maximize their potential for growth and development. Funded by the European Union Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO) and the European Commission, the program seeks to address the immediate needs of SMEs in an economic landscape marked by challenges and uncertainties.

Given the temporary nature of the relaunch, eligible SMEs are encouraged to apply promptly to benefit from these non-refundable grants, which may cover a significant portion of the costs associated with registering trademarks, patents, and other intellectual property rights, thereby strengthening their competitive position in the global marketplace.

Limited Time Relaunch in 2024

Eligible SMEs have a limited period to submit funding applications, with the deadline set for December 6, 2024, provided that funds are not depleted before this date. Given the limited availability of funds, SMEs may obtain partial subsidies for national, regional, or international registration fees.

Who Is Eligible?

The program is aimed at small and medium-sized enterprises based in EU member states. These companies must meet the eligibility criteria to apply, and grants are awarded on a “first come, first served” basis until the available funds are exhausted.

Benefits for SMEs

Participation in the SME Fund program offers the following benefits for SMEs:

• Reimbursement of 75% of official fees associated with the registration of trademarks and/or designs with the State Office for Inventions and Trademarks (OSIM) and the European Union Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO);
• Reimbursement of 50% of official fees associated with the registration of trademarks and/or designs with the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO).

How to Apply

Interested SMEs must access the EUIPO’s online platform, where they can submit their applications and review details about eligibility criteria and the application process. The application deadline is limited, and funds are available for only a short period, making timely application essential to take advantage of these subsidies.

The relaunch of the SME Fund in 2024 represents a critical opportunity for SMEs seeking to strengthen their market position through the protection of intellectual property rights. This program not only provides financial support but also grants access to expertise and services that can significantly impact long-term competitiveness and success.

For further information, please contact us at +40 792 422 919 or via email at contact@irimia-ip.ro.