SI Productive Innovation – An Opportunity from Portugal 2030

The launch of the new community framework, Portugal 2030, brought a series of new investment support opportunities. One of the most sought-after contests over the years has been the SI Inovação Produtiva. Therefore, the HM Consultores team has compiled a set of key questions our clients have asked, which may be useful if you intend to apply for project support.

10 Key Questions About SI Productive Innovation

  1. Can I invest in facilities located in different geographic locations within a single application, or do I need to submit an application for each planned investment?
    Yes, it is possible to include investments in different establishments located in various regions in a single application, except for the regions of Lisbon and Algarve. In these cases, a separate application must be submitted for these regions, and another for the remaining ones.
  2. I have a micro-enterprise. Can I apply for this incentive? What is the maximum funding rate?
    Yes, micro-enterprises are eligible, and the maximum incentive rate is 40% as a non-repayable grant.
  3. Are there maximum and minimum limits for the investment to be applied for?
    Yes, the eligible expenditure ranges from €250,000 to €25,000,000.
  4. My company operates in the agro-food sector and is based in the Alentejo Coast. Can I apply for this Incentive System?
    Operations in the renewable energy, agro-food, and tourism sectors in the NUTS III region of Alentejo Coast are not eligible. However, for applications with investments in the aforementioned sectors, refer to the specific notice for this region: Productive Business Investment for a Just Transition.
  5. What are the main eligible investments?
    • Tangible Fixed Assets: Production Machinery and Equipment; Computer Equipment
    • Intangible Assets: Technology Transfer Licenses; Software
    • Building Construction and Renovation Works
    • Other Expenses: Engineering Services; CC/ROC Intervention
  6. I have an ongoing application for Productive Innovation under PT2020. Can I submit a new application to this new notice without having closed the previous project?
    Yes, it is possible to submit a new application as long as the investment project is different from the previous one.
  7. I did not make the Aid Registration Request (PRA). Can I submit my application in the 1st phase of the notice schedule?
    Yes, you can submit the application immediately, as you can start executing the investments right after submission. However, its analysis and decision will only be made in phases 3 and 4.
  8. Do beneficiary companies have to invest their own resources?
    Yes, companies must demonstrate they have funding sources to ensure the operation’s completion. They must guarantee at least 20% of the investment with their own capital (share capital, incorporation of loans, and additional capital contributions).
  9. What benefits does the SI Inovação Produtiva bring to my company?
    With the approval and development of a Productive Innovation project, the company receives funding to strengthen competitive and export capacity, reduce innovation costs, acquire technical and engineering consultancy services, expand networking, and potential strategic partnerships.
  10. Does Portugal 2030 have a technical assistance platform?
    • Fund Line: On business days, from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Toll-free number for national calls: 800 103 510; Cost of call to national fixed network for international calls: 00351 300 003 987. This line provides support under Portugal 2030 and answers questions related to:
    • Technical support for the Fund Desk;
    • Notices and Operations; and
    • General information.

Anticipation is the Best Guarantee of Success

It is advisable to anticipate the structure of your investment projects. The better prepared you are, the better we’ll be able to help you and the more likely your application will be approved. We are here to help you grow and become more competitive in an increasingly demanding market.