SIID – Vale Inovação - Apoio para a inovação na biotecnologia azul

The main goal of this opportunity is to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the field of blue biotechnology. It aims to help these companies begin working with research and innovation systems by funding consultancy services for innovation. The focus is on knowledge transfer, protecting intellectual property, and promoting eco-innovation. Activities may include technical assistance, technology transfer, and consultancy for acquiring, protecting, and commercializing intellectual property. This grant is available for projects located in the Norte, Centro, Alentejo, and Algarve regions of mainland Portugal.

• Projects must align with the objectives of the opportunity and fit within the blue biotechnology sector.
• They should aim to create goods or services that can be sold and have international potential, generating economic value for the region.
• The project must take place in one of the eligible regions: Norte, Centro, Alentejo, or Algarve.
• Only simplified research and innovation projects focused on acquiring consultancy services are admissible.
• Each project must last no longer than 12 months and comply with environmental principles.
• Only one application per company is allowed, with a funding cap of €25,000 per project.

Examples:

• A biotech startup in Algarve hires consultants to help protect a new marine enzyme patent.
• An SME in Norte works with experts to develop an eco-friendly algae-based product and explores international markets.
• A small company in Centro contracts a firm for technology transfer services to commercialize an innovative aquaculture technique.

• Consultancy services for knowledge transfer in blue biotechnology
• Consultancy services for protection of intellectual and industrial property
• Consultancy services for eco-innovation and quality improvement
• Technical assistance related to research and innovation
• Technology transfer services
• Support for the acquisition, protection, and commercialization of intellectual property
• Services directly related to the beneficiary's establishment where the project is developed
• Costs must result from transactions with independent third parties

Restrictions: Expenses must be directly linked to the project and carried out by unrelated third parties. Only consultancy and related services are eligible.

• Total budget of the grant: €1,500,000
• Co-financing rate: up to 100%
• Maximum per project: €25,000
• Maximum project duration: 12 months

Other financial details: The grant is non-reimbursable. An initial payment of up to 10% is made after proof of service contracting, with the remaining 90% paid after the final report showing 80% completion. Funding is subject to EU de minimis rules and requires organized accounting and PME certification.

• Applicants must be micro, small, or medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) or small mid-cap companies of any legal form.
• Projects must fit within the blue biotechnology sector and align with regional innovation priorities.
• Applicants must have organized accounting and submit a budget from a qualified provider.
• Only one application per company is allowed.
• The application must be submitted before contracting any services.
• Each project must be completed within 12 months.
• Applicants must justify the chosen project domain and comply with environmental principles.
• Beneficiaries must comply with all outlined eligibility requirements and maintain PME certification.