For many innovative SMEs and startups, protecting their brand, design or innovation is an important step. A registered brand, model or patent gives investors extra confidence and can even be used as collateral in some cases. Although the costs for these registrations are relatively limited, they can still be a barrier in the start-up phase. That is why it is extra attractive that the European Union offers financial support through the so-called SME Fund. With this subsidy, small and medium-sized companies can recover a significant part of their costs for registering intellectual property (IP).
How does the grant from the SME Fund work?
The scheme works with a voucher system. Entrepreneurs can use these vouchers for various forms of IP protection, such as trademark registrations, design registrations or patents. For example, the official trademark or design registration fee is 75% reimbursed, up to a maximum amount of €700.
This makes it definitely not a huge subsidy, but it is a convenient arrangement that helps many SMEs and startups actually capture their intellectual property. As a result, trademark registration at the EU level, which normally costs as little as €1,000, has a completely different cost. Trademark registrations at the Benelux level are also eligible for the subsidy.
Simple application process
The procedure for the SME Fund is relatively simple: first, a company applies for the voucher. Once it has been granted, the registration costs can be incurred. Thereafter, the compensation can be partially claimed back.
Applications for the SME Fund 2026 have been possible since February 2026, as long as a budget remains available. Last year, the European budget ran out around September/October, so the scheme can be used for quite some time. However, don't wait too long to apply.
Are you interested in this SME grant and protecting your IP rights? Get in touch with Thomas Venneker from TrademarkMeister.com (EU Trademark Attorney) or do a free grant scan to see what else your company qualifies for.
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