Unlocking IP Protection for Startups

The SME Fund, funded by the European Commission and implemented  by the European Union Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO), is designed to provide targeted financial assistance to SMEs within the European Union. This initiative aims to enhance the capacity of SMEs to register and manage IP  assets, including patents, trademarks, designs, and plant varieties.

The Ideas Powered for Business SME Fund is a grant program aimed at helping SMEs within the EU safeguard their IP rights. The fund was relaunched on the 3^rd of February 2025, and it offers up to a maximum of €7,050 per SME in vouchers to support IP protection. Having been active since 2023, the fund steadily gained popularity as SMEs came to appreciate how straightforward the application process is and how much value could be derived from the resulting IP rights.

The European Commission defines SMEs based on the number of employees and either turnover or balance sheet. For eligibility, companies must not employ more than 250 employees and have an annual turnover not exceeding €50 million or an annual balance sheet total not exceeding €43 million¹.

To support these businesses in protecting their IP rights, the SME Fund operates a voucher-based reimbursement system that streamlines financial support for IP-related expenses.

The IP Scan service delivers personalized support to SMEs by identifying and assessing their intangible assets. It offers strategic guidance on how to incorporate IP protection into their overall business development plans, enabling SMEs to make the most of their intellectual property and use it as a driver for growth. This is not available in all member states.

This is the most relevant voucher for startups. It covers up to 75% of the fees for applying for trademarks and designs at the EU, national, or regional level. This includes:

• Application fees
• Additional class fees
• Examination, registration, and publication fees
• Deferment of publication (for designs)

Startups can also receive 50% reimbursement for international trademark and design applications filed through the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO)—though this does not apply to Ukrainian applicants.

This voucher is ideal for startups looking to protect their brand identity, logos, product packaging, or innovative designs. It can cover up to €700 per business, making it a cost-effective way to secure valuable IP rights early in your growth journey.

The voucher supports businesses involved in agriculture or biotechnology. It covers up to €1,500 for the online application and examination fees of plant varieties protected under the EU system. While this may not apply to most tech startups, it’s highly relevant for agri-tech or biotech ventures.

Intellectual property (IP) is more than just legal protection—it’s a strategic asset that can drive growth, attract investment, and boost competitiveness. According to a 2025 joint study by the EUIPO and the European Patent Office, SMEs that own IP rights generate 44% more revenue per employee and pay 43% higher wages than those without IP portfolios. Despite these clear benefits, fewer than 10% of European SMEs currently hold any form of registered IP, such as trademarks, patents, or designs  . For startups in Malta and across the EU, this highlights a major opportunity: securing IP early can significantly enhance your business performance and long-term value.

The SME Fund offers valuable financial support to help small and medium-sized enterprises protect their intellectual property. If you're an SME based in the EU, you may be eligible for reimbursement on costs related to registering trademarks, designs, and patents at both the national and EU levels. The fund also covers part of the fees for professional representation when preparing and filing European patent applications. Successful applicants receive a voucher, which can be used to register IP through the appropriate bodies, such as national IP offices, the EUIPO, or the European Patent Office, before claiming reimbursement. Applications are reviewed regularly, but since the funds are capped, they are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.

By delivering expert legal, administrative, and strategic support, our team will enable SMEs to effectively navigate the complexities of applying for the SME Fund. This service not only makes it easier for SMEs to get funding but also helps them build a stronger foundation for future growth.

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1 Commission Recommendation of 6 May 2003 concerning the definition of micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (Text with EEA relevance) (notified under document number C (2003) 1422).