Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) considering the protection of their innovations are encouraged to apply for Voucher 3 of the 2026 SME Fund, which remains open and provides financial support for patent protection.
The programme offers: 75% reimbursement, up to €1,000, for:
- National patent applications, Prior art searches
- European patent applications
- 50% reimbursement, up to €1,500, for legal services related to European patent applications.
With nearly 110,000 SMEs having already benefited from the SME Fund and more than €6 million available for patent-related applications in 2026, eligible businesses are encouraged to apply as early as possible.
Applications for Voucher 3 must be submitted before filing any patent application or requesting a prior art search.
The programme will remain open until the end of 2026 or until the available funds are exhausted, on a first-come, first-served basis.
SMEs interested in the protection of Community plant varieties may also consider Voucher 4, which supports European plant variety protection applications.
For more information, please visit the website: SME Fund 2026
