Portugal 2030 vs. Portugal 2020: What Changes in Support for the Internationalization of SMEs?

The Internationalisation Incentive System has always been an essential tool for Portuguese SMEs seeking to expand their operations to international markets. Since Portugal 2020, this system has provided crucial support for companies wishing to increase their exports, develop new business models, and qualify themselves to compete globally. Now, with the introduction of Portugal 2030, new opportunities arise, but also new challenges.

Objectives and Benefits of the Internationalisation Incentive System

The main objective of this incentive system is to empower individual operations promoted by SMEs wishing to enter new markets. Through targeted support, companies can develop effective internationalisation strategies, whether by increasing exports, organisational innovation, or creating and promoting brands abroad.

Projects involving online presence and e-commerce, international marketing, prospecting and presence in external markets, and product certification for international markets are eligible for support. In practice, this means that expenses such as hiring qualified professionals, participation in international fairs and exhibitions, and specialised consultancy in ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) can be covered by the programme.

What Changed in Portugal 2030?

Although the core objectives remain, Portugal 2030 has introduced significant changes reflecting a more focused and strategic approach:

1. Stricter Criteria: Now, only companies with an international turnover exceeding 200,000 euros in 2023 are eligible. This shows a clear targeting of support towards companies that already have some export experience and are ready to expand further.
2. Focus on Innovation and Sustainability: Portugal 2030 places greater emphasis on innovation and sustainable practices, aligning with global trends in corporate responsibility. Companies investing in innovative and sustainable practices will be better positioned to obtain support.
3. Increase in Minimum Investment: The minimum investment for projects has increased from 25,000 euros in Portugal 2020 to 200,000 euros in Portugal 2030. This change suggests that the programme is aimed at larger-scale and higher-impact projects.
4. Reduction in Funding Rates: The maximum incentive rate has been reduced to 40%, with a cap of 315,000 euros per operation, except in the Algarve region. In Portugal 2020, this rate was 50%, with a cap of 500,000 euros. This indicates a more selective and focused allocation of resources.
5. Beneficiaries whose CAE corresponds to Divisions 45, 46 and 47 of CAE Rev3 are not eligible. Whereas in PT2020, trade activities in companies whose sales in the external market added value to the national offer were included.
6. More Competitive Selection Process: In the first phase of the tender, which runs until 31 September, only applications from SMEs with an export bracket exceeding 1 million euros will be decided upon. Additionally, applications must achieve a merit score equal to or greater than 3.50 points.

How SMEs Can Take Advantage of Portugal 2030 - SICE Internationalisation?

Compared to Portugal 2020, Portugal 2030 presents a more demanding scenario, but for SMEs meeting the new criteria, financing opportunities can be decisive for success in the international market. Companies must carefully assess their capacity to meet the new requirements and prepare their applications strategically.

Portugal 2030, although stricter, offers great potential to catalyse the expansion and international consolidation of Portuguese SMEs. It is a programme that not only supports export growth but also encourages innovative and sustainable business practices, preparing companies to compete in an increasingly demanding global market.

Therefore, if your SME is ready to take the next step in internationalisation, Portugal 2030 could be the necessary boost to reach new heights of success. Seize this opportunity to align your growth strategy with global demand and ensure a solid and competitive future in the international market.

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Last update: 20 August 2024