Merit Assessment in Portugal 2030: The Key to the Success of Your Application

Knowing how this merit evaluation works and what evaluators look for can be the deciding factor in ensuring the success of investment projects.

What is the Merit Evaluation in Portugal 2030?

The Merit Evaluation is the process that determines how well an application aligns with the objectives and priorities of Portugal 2030. This evaluation is essential because it helps select the projects that will have the greatest impact and success. In Portugal 2030, the Merit Evaluation is based on a formula that weighs four main criteria: Strategic Fit, Quality, Execution Capacity, and Impact.

How is the Merit of a project calculated in Portugal 2030? 

The formula for calculating the merit of an application in Portugal 2030, in the case of the Incentive Systems for Business Competitiveness (SICE), is as follows: 20% A + 30% B + 10% C + 40% D.

Let us now detail each of these criteria to better understand what they mean.

• A - Strategic Fit (20%): This criterion evaluates how well your project aligns with regional and sectoral strategies, such as the Regional RIS3. It is important that the application clearly demonstrates how the project will contribute to the priorities defined in these policies.
• B - Quality (30%): Here, the coherence and suitability of the investment plan are analysed. The project needs to have a well-structured plan that makes sense in relation to the defined objectives. Furthermore, the innovative character of the operation is also evaluated, that is, how much newness the project brings to the sector or region where it will be implemented.
• C - Execution Capacity (10%): This criterion evaluates the company's ability to manage and implement the proposed project. This includes both the team's experience and the availability of necessary resources to ensure the project is successfully executed.
• D - Impact (40%): This is the most important criterion, with the highest weight in the evaluation. It analyses the project's value creation potential, the generation of qualified employment, the propensity for international markets, and the ability to promote regional convergence. A project that demonstrates high impact in these aspects will have a significant advantage in the merit evaluation.

Understanding how the Merit Evaluation works and how the criteria are weighted is fundamental for any company wanting to submit an application to Portugal 2030 and can be the difference between the success and failure of an application.

By focusing on the most important criteria, such as Impact and Quality, and ensuring that the project is well-aligned with regional and sectoral strategies, companies can significantly increase their potential for success.

If you are thinking of submitting a project, it is essential to understand and carefully work on each of the criteria to ensure your application stands out. Prepare well, align your project with strategies, and clearly demonstrate the impact it will have — and you will be on the right track to securing funding.

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Last update: 21 August 2024