Companies can now request a 40% advance on PT2030 projects

Do you have an approved project under Portugal 2030? Companies can, starting today, request an advance of 40% of the incentive value without any charges!

One of the biggest challenges for companies with approved projects in Portugal 2030 is the "cash flow bottleneck": the need to finance the initial investment before receiving the first reimbursement of the incentive. To solve this problem, the Government, through the Banco Português de Fomento (BPF), has launched a transformative mechanism: the possibility of receiving an advance of 40% of the approved support.

But what needs to be done? What are the conditions? And how can your company ensure access to this advance quickly and safely?

We have created this complete guide to answer all your questions and show you the way to make the most of this benefit.

What is, exactly, the 40% advance of PT2030?

The 40% advance is a mechanism that allows your company to receive, right at the start of the project, a substantial portion (up to 40%) of the non-repayable grant that was approved for you. Instead of waiting months for reimbursements, you can have immediate capital to pay suppliers, buy equipment, and move forward with your investment.

This mechanism is enabled by a public guarantee, totally free for your company, issued by the Banco Português de Fomento and by the Mutual Guarantee Societies (SGM).

Competitive advantages: why is this mechanism a Game-Changer?

• Immediate liquidity: this is the main advantage. It ends the wait and allows your investment schedule not to be limited by your cash flow.
• Zero cost: the BPF guarantee has no associated costs. Your company does not pay any commission or charge to access this advance.
• Interest-free: the amount you receive is an anticipation of your grant, not a bank loan. Therefore, there is no interest payment.
• Less dependence on banking: reduces the need to resort to short-term credit lines, which are more expensive and bureaucratic, to finance the start of the project.

The step-by-step guide: how to access the 40% advance of PT2030

The process was designed to be a natural consequence of the start of your project. Follow these steps:

• Step 1: have the project approved - the base requirement is to have an approved application in one of the eligible incentive systems of Portugal 2030 (see list below).
• Step 2: start the investment (the 5% trigger) - begin executing your project. The mechanism is triggered as soon as there is a submitted payment request of at least 5% of the total approved investment. This is the document that formalises the start and serves as the official "trigger".
• Step 3: request the 40% advance - as soon as you submit the 5% reimbursement request, you can formally request the 40% advance. The managing authority will then coordinate with the BPF and the SGM for the issuance of the public guarantee in your company's name.

According to information from the Banco Português de Fomento, it is expected that after the request is submitted, it will take up to 20 working days for the capital to be released. 

Who can benefit from the 40% advance of PT2030? 

This measure covers the generality of business investment projects, including SMEs and Large Enterprises, approved in the following Incentive Systems:

• Business Competitiveness Incentive System (SICE): Productive Innovation, Qualification and Internationalisation.
• Research and Development Incentive System (SIID): Business R&D and R&D&I
• Territorial Base Incentive System (SIBT): e.g.: Development projects in specific territories.
• Climate Transition and Energy Incentive System (SITCE):  Decarbonisation and Energy Efficiency.

People also ask 

How much does the 40% advance of PT2030 cost?

It is a benefit totally free of costs, commissions, or interest for the company. 

Until when can I request the 40% advance of PT2030?

 The 40% advance is in effect for requests made until 31 December 2025. From 2026 onwards, the advance ceiling drops to 25%. Acting quickly is crucial.

Do I need to contact my bank?

The process is handled between your company, the managing authority of your programme, and the mutual guarantee system. The only exception is if you choose not to wait for the 5% execution and prefer to present a commercial bank guarantee on your own initiative.

Yunit as a strategic partner in maximising your incentive

Navigating the procedures of Portugal 2030, ensuring that each step is taken correctly and at the right time, can be a complex challenge. An error in submitting the payment request or in the timing of the advance request can delay the liquidity your company needs by months.

Yunit's team of experts ensures that your process runs smoothly and optimally. We accompany you from the preparation of the reimbursement request to the receipt of the advance, ensuring that you meet all requirements to unlock your funding without delay.

Do not let your investment stall due to lack of cash flow. Talk to one of our experts and discover how we can accelerate your project with the 40% advance of PT2030.