Incubadoras de Base Tecnológica

This grant supports the creation, expansion, or modernization of technology-based incubators in the Algarve region. These infrastructures must aim to accelerate the development of new tech-driven companies aligned with regional smart specialization priorities — including tourism, health and longevity, environmental sustainability, digitalization, and endogenous resources. Eligible applicants include higher education institutions, non-profit R&D organizations, tech parks, incubator operators, and public entities in cooperation with these bodies.

Focus on the creation, expansion, or conversion of physical infrastructures that serve as technology-based incubators.

Clearly contribute to the development of regional smart specialization domains such as:

• Tourism
• Health and longevity
• Endogenous resources
• Environmental sustainability
• Digitalization and ICT

Be based in the Algarve region (NUTS II).

Examples of Admissible Projects

• Creating a new tech incubator focused on supporting early-stage startups in sustainable tourism and digital services.

• Expanding an existing incubator with laboratory and testing facilities to host healthtech and biotech spin-offs.

• Modernizing an incubator facility with shared high-performance computing infrastructure for startups working in artificial intelligence and data analytics.

• Converting a municipal building into a fully equipped incubation center targeting startups in circular economy and smart agriculture.

• Developing a sector-specific incubator program (e.g. for blue economy or energy efficiency) with a partnership between a university and a local tech park.

• Construction and/or adaptation of physical infrastructure – Includes works to create or modernize spaces that will host technology-based incubators.

• Acquisition of technical studies and services – Includes architectural and engineering execution projects, as well as supervision services directly linked to construction.

• Purchase of equipment and ICT systems – Includes acquisition of communication and information systems required for the qualification and operation of the incubator.

• Procurement of specialized goods and services – Essential for the effective operation of the incubator (e.g., specialized installations, technical systems).

• Personnel costs – Salaries for staff proven necessary to implement and develop the infrastructure; only the base salary and mandatory social charges are eligible, proportional to time allocated to the operation.

Total budget for the grant: €1,000,000

Co-financing percentage: 60%

Maximum funding per project: 200,000€

• Be a legal entity operating in the Algarve region.

• Belong to one of the following categories:

  • Higher education institutions or their R&D units

  • Public or private non-profit organizations focused on knowledge transfer, R&D, or innovation

  • Entities managing science and technology parks or incubators

  • Public entities, including municipalities, operating under a formal cooperation agreement with at least one of the types listed above

• Be in a regular financial and tax situation, with no outstanding obligations to the Tax Authority or Social Security

• Have organized accounting and financial capacity to execute the project