New support program for SMEs by EUIPO: Ideas Powered for Business SME Fund
The Ideas Powered for Business SME Fund is a EUR 20 million financial assistance program designed to help small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the EU access their intellectual property rights. This SME Fund is a European Commission initiative implemented by the European Union Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO) and will run from January 10, 2022 to December 16, 2022.
The program offers two different services, which SMEs can apply for individually or in combination:
- 50% discount on the basic fees for filing trademarks and designs at national, regional and EU level (all EU countries)
- 75% discount on the cost of the preliminary IP Scan, which helps you develop an IP strategy
The IP Scan examines the SME’s business model, products and/or services, and growth plans to formulate an appropriate intellectual property strategy.
The SME must first apply for the grant and, if approved, will receive vouchers that are valid for four months. It should be noted that the SME must first make advance payments for the use of IP services. Subsequently, by submitting the reimbursement form, the vouchers will be activated, allowing the costs to be reimbursed through the program.
Please note: Funds are limited and therefore will be awarded on a first-come, first-served basis.
For more information, please visit https://euipo.europa.eu/ohimportal/en/online-services/sme-fund or https://euipo.europa.eu/ohimportal/en/help-sme-fund?utm_source=sme-fund-newuser-may-de&utm_medium=newsletter&utm_campaign=sme-fund-newuser-may-de.
We will be happy to assist you in researching as well as drafting an EU trademark and/or design application – also using the funding program.