IFIC: 315 million to prepare the Portuguese economy for the future

The creation of the IFIC – Financial Instrument for Innovation and Competitiveness emerges in a context where Portugal faces the challenge of accelerating the modernisation of its economy, raising international competitiveness, and responding to the demands of the green and digital transition. Integrated into the RRP – Recovery and Resilience Plan, its direction is clear: to reinforce companies' investment capacity, especially in areas of technological risk and productive differentiation. With an allocation of 315 million euros, the instrument was designed to reduce the risk of business projects and mobilise private investment in areas considered vital for sustainable economic growth.

Why this system was created

Many disruptive projects in Portugal do not move forward for three central reasons:

1. Limited access to financing with competitive conditions, especially for SMEs.
2. High technological or market risk, which drives away traditional investors.
3. Lack of specific instruments for strategic or emerging sectors.

The IFIC responds to these blockages, making available credit lines with guarantees, non-repayable financial incentives [grants] and attractive financial conditions. The idea is clear: when risk is shared, the likelihood of companies investing in innovation, technology, and differentiation increases.

What is at stake in September

The first lines to open have already been announced:

• Reindustrialise Line: supporting companies in reinforcing productive capacity and adopting new manufacturing technologies.
• Defence and Security Economy Line: boosting solutions of strategic value for a crucial sector in terms of sovereignty and export.
• AI in SMEs Line: supporting advanced digitalisation with the integration of artificial intelligence into the business fabric.

These lines reflect the country's priorities: making the industry more modernised, playing an active role in critical sectors, and equipping companies with digital tools that can redefine their productivity and competitiveness.

The impact for companies

This instrument goes further than simply making funds available. It represents a paradigm shift: it demonstrates a willingness not only to finance short-term projects but to create foundations for more resilient, innovative companies aligned with global trends.

Ignoring the IFIC is not just letting an opportunity slip by. It is accepting a future of greater vulnerability to competition and difficulty in keeping up with the transitions that are shaping the European economy. On the other hand, those who seize this moment will be positioning themselves to lead in the domestic and external markets.

The missing step

Companies need to mobilise: identify strategic projects, structure applications, and view the IFIC as an essential tool to transform their activity. This is not conventional support; it is an investment in the future of the Portuguese economy, with a direct impact on the future of each company.