You have validated research but need to turn it into a company
This programme supports the creation and launch of science and technology-based companies, from proof of concept to market entry. We assess your project's fit with no obligation.
- Funding to move from research result to company
- Support for technical and commercial validation
- A position investors value in the next stage
Calls with their own calendar — confirmed in the diagnosis
Start PME assessment
Start your assessment
Funding
Calculated for your project
Programmes
Portugal 2030, RRP and others
Region
Mainland Portugal, depending on the call
Eligible businesses
Academic spin-offs, Researcher entrepreneurs, Deep-tech startups, Companies at proof-of-concept stage
The opportunity
Why this funding is worth exploring
The incentive reduces the financial burden of the investment and accelerates projects already planned by the business.
From research to market
Funds technology maturation and the evidence needed to sell the solution.
Launch without losing equity
The grant component reduces the need for immediate investor entry.
A defensible business plan
We translate science into business model, market and assessable indicators.
Who can apply
- Newly created or forming science and technology-based companies
- Project based on knowledge, research or proprietary technology
- Founding team with demonstrable technical capability
- Link to a research institution, where the call requires it
- Work not started at the application date
What you can fund
- Proof of concept and technology maturation
- Prototyping, testing and real-world validation
- Industrial property and patent registration
- Hiring qualified staff
- Specialist launch support services
Not sure whether your project qualifies? Receive an answer within 24 business hours.
Estimate my grantKeep exploring
Other funding linked to this project
Many companies combine more than one incentive. Check the related pages before deciding.
How Start PME works
From assessment to payment, with support at every stage
We work through clear stages so you always know what happens next.
- 1
Free assessment
We review the business profile, investment and region to confirm eligibility and the applicable rate.
- 2
Strategy and eligibility
We select the right call, structure the project and maximise the available uplifts.
- 3
Application submitted
We prepare the project description, investment plan and forecasts, and submit everything on time.
- 4
Delivery and payments
We support procurement, payment claims and reports through to project completion.
5,000+
Applications submitted
€50M+
Approved eligible expenditure
€27M+
Approved non-repayable funding
82%
Approval rate
Experience and trust
Trusted by the clients we have supported
Proven results and genuine feedback from Start PME clients.
Frequently asked questions
Clear answers to the questions holding back your decision
Find out in two minutes whether funding is available for your business
Free assessment, reply within 24 business hours and no obligation.

