SMEs Eligible for Partial Reimbursement of Intellectual Property Expenses Through 2026 SME Funds

The 2026 SME Funds program enables small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and micro-entrepreneurs within the European Union and Ukraine to obtain partial reimbursement for expenses related to intellectual property (IP) activities. The initiative, open for applications since February 2, 2026, aims to support SMEs in protecting their innovations by offsetting costs associated with patent filings, trademarks, designs, and other IP-related procedures.

Eligible companies must meet the European Union’s SME definition, which includes having fewer than 250 employees and either an annual turnover below €50 million or an annual balance sheet total under €43 million. Applications must be submitted and approved before incurring IP-related expenses, as the reimbursement is not retroactive.

1. Prior IP Diagnosis Services (IP Scan and IP Scan Enforcement): Companies can receive up to €1,620 annually, with refunds covering up to 90% of the costs.

2. Trademark, Design, or Model Filings: A maximum annual reimbursement of €700 is available for taxes paid at regional, national, or international levels. Refunds cover up to 75% for European, national, and regional taxes, and up to 50% for international taxes outside the EU.

3. Patents: For European patent applications or prior art searches, companies may receive up to €3,500 annually, with refunds covering 75% or up to €1,000. Legal costs related to patent drafting may be reimbursed at 50%, with a maximum of €2,500, subject to certain conditions.

4. Plant Variety Certificates: Companies can obtain up to €1,500 annually, with refunds covering up to 75% of online application fees for European Union plant variety certificates.

There is no limit to the number of applications a company can submit within the annual caps. Companies that have previously received funding may apply again in 2026. Applications are processed through the European Union Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO) website.

Applicants should note that funding is limited and may be exhausted before the December 4, 2026 deadline, potentially leading to early closure of applications. As of now, applications remain open.

This funding opportunity aligns with the European Commission’s Recommendation of May 6, 2003, defining micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises within the European Economic Area.

For further details and to apply, SMEs can visit the EUIPO website and consult the National Institute of Industrial Property (INPI) resources on the SME Funds program.