EUIPO launches new edition of the SME Fund 2025

It supports the protection of intellectual property rights for SMEs and self-employed professionals

The European Union Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO) has launched the sixth edition of the SME Fund, an initiative offering financial support specifically designed to help small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and self-employed professionals based in the European Union protect their intellectual and industrial property rights effectively.

Since its inception, the program has played a key role in supporting SMEs across the EU, helping them safeguard their intellectual property and foster innovation. Originally introduced as a pilot project in 2021, the initiative has supported more than 95,000 SMEs over the past four years through reimbursement of eligible fees and services.

For the new call, companies and self-employed professionals based in Spain can access three funding options:

• Voucher 2 covers applications for trademarks and designs, helping businesses protect their corporate identity and aesthetic creations.
• Voucher 3 applies to national patent applications.
• Voucher 4 is aimed at securing intellectual property rights outside the European Union, enabling international expansion of protection.

It should be noted that Voucher 1, intended for IP Scan and IP Scan Enforcement services, is currently not available for applicants based in Spain.

The process to benefit from the SME Fund is simple and follows these steps:

1. Apply for the grant
2. Receive approval and vouchers
3. Request the IP activity (trademarks, designs, patents, or plant varieties) and complete payment
4. Obtain reimbursement
5. Monitor the application period

One of the main advantages of this program is that applications can be managed through an Industrial Property Agent acting as an authorized external representative. This option not only simplifies the administrative process but also ensures specialized technical management that maximizes the chances of successfully obtaining protection rights.

The 2025 SME Fund program runs from February 3, 2025, to December 5, 2025.

All detailed documentation on the vouchers and procedures is available on the EUIPO’s official website.

At BALDER, we encourage SMEs and self-employed professionals to take advantage of this initiative, which represents a real opportunity to protect their intangible assets and strengthen their competitiveness in both European and international markets.