€57 Million support for SME internationalization: A strategic opportunity
The Portuguese Government has announced the opening of a call providing €57 million in support for micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) that wish to internationalize their business models. This measure is part of the Portugal 2030 framework, funded mainly through the Innovation and Digital Transition Program (PITD – Compete 2030), with additional contributions from the Lisboa 2030 and Algarve 2030 programs.
€57 Million support for SME internationalization: A strategic opportunity
The Portuguese Government has announced the opening of a call providing €57 million in support for micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) that wish to internationalize their business models. This measure is part of the Portugal 2030 framework, funded mainly through the Innovation and Digital Transition Program (PITD – Compete 2030), with additional contributions from the Lisboa 2030 and Algarve 2030 programs.
The main goal of this initiative is clear: to increase the number of exporting companies, strengthen the export performance of those already operating abroad, and diversify the markets and destinations of Portuguese products and services.
Conditions and application deadlines
The call is divided into two phases:
- Phase 1: Applications open until 30 December 2025
- Phase 2: Applications open until 31 March 2026
The measure applies to companies located in mainland Portugal’s NUTS II regions (North, Centre, Lisbon, Alentejo, Algarve). For operations with investments in Lisbon or Algarve, applicants must submit separate applications for each region.
The total funding allocation focuses on individual operations, aimed at enhancing companies’ capacity to develop and implement internationalization strategies.
What can be funded?
Eligible expenses cover a wide range of actions designed to strengthen companies’ international presence:
- Market research, prospecting, and participation in foreign markets (fairs, exhibitions, missions, client acquisition)
- International marketing, including digital tools
- Online presence and e-commerce development
- Creation and international promotion of brands
- Organizational innovation related to commercial processes and external relations
- Quality assurance and certifications specific to foreign markets
Funding intensity and limits
The funding rate for eligible operations starts at 40%, and may reach 50% in the second phase (under Compete 2030).
Maximum funding amounts per operation and per beneficiary:
- Phase 1: Up to €300,000
- Phase 2: Up to €150,000
An exception applies to operations located in the Algarve NUTS II region, which may have differentiated conditions. It is also important to note that the support is non-repayable (a grant) and that the granting of incentives is subject to the achievement of specific performance and result indicators.
Expected impact and challenges
This initiative represents an excellent opportunity for Portuguese SMEs aiming to take the next step towards international markets. In a context of growing globalization and fierce competition, internationalization can open doors to new clients, improve profit margins, and diversify geographical risks.
Expected positive outcomes:
- Increase in exporting companies: incentives may encourage many businesses to start exporting.
- Strengthening of existing exporters: supporting them in increasing their export volumes.
- Market diversification: reducing dependence on a small number of external destinations.
- Organizational modernization: the required internal innovation may also improve efficiency in domestic operations.
However, challenges remain, including SMEs’ administrative and technical capacity to prepare and execute international projects, the need to monitor outcomes to ensure eligibility and fund release, and competition for limited funding, with high-potential projects competing side by side.
Want to apply for this support, but need help? Contact us. Our expert consultants can help you prepare your application.
Andreia Arenga
16.10.2025
All rights reserved. This article is protected by copyright and may not be reproduced, distributed, transmitted or used, in whole or in part, without the prior written permission of Equações Exaustivas Lda. All trademarks, company names, logos and products mentioned are the property of their respective owners.
The main goal of this initiative is clear: to increase the number of exporting companies, strengthen the export performance of those already operating abroad, and diversify the markets and destinations of Portuguese products and services.
Conditions and application deadlines
The call is divided into two phases:
- Phase 1: Applications open until 30 December 2025
- Phase 2: Applications open until 31 March 2026
The measure applies to companies located in mainland Portugal’s NUTS II regions (North, Centre, Lisbon, Alentejo, Algarve). For operations with investments in Lisbon or Algarve, applicants must submit separate applications for each region.
The total funding allocation focuses on individual operations, aimed at enhancing companies’ capacity to develop and implement internationalization strategies.
What can be funded?
Eligible expenses cover a wide range of actions designed to strengthen companies’ international presence:
- Market research, prospecting, and participation in foreign markets (fairs, exhibitions, missions, client acquisition)
- International marketing, including digital tools
- Online presence and e-commerce development
- Creation and international promotion of brands
- Organizational innovation related to commercial processes and external relations
- Quality assurance and certifications specific to foreign markets
Funding intensity and limits
The funding rate for eligible operations starts at 40%, and may reach 50% in the second phase (under Compete 2030).
Maximum funding amounts per operation and per beneficiary:
- Phase 1: Up to €300,000
- Phase 2: Up to €150,000
An exception applies to operations located in the Algarve NUTS II region, which may have differentiated conditions. It is also important to note that the support is non-repayable (a grant) and that the granting of incentives is subject to the achievement of specific performance and result indicators.
Expected impact and challenges
This initiative represents an excellent opportunity for Portuguese SMEs aiming to take the next step towards international markets. In a context of growing globalization and fierce competition, internationalization can open doors to new clients, improve profit margins, and diversify geographical risks.
Expected positive outcomes:
- Increase in exporting companies: incentives may encourage many businesses to start exporting.
- Strengthening of existing exporters: supporting them in increasing their export volumes.
- Market diversification: reducing dependence on a small number of external destinations.
- Organizational modernization: the required internal innovation may also improve efficiency in domestic operations.
However, challenges remain, including SMEs’ administrative and technical capacity to prepare and execute international projects, the need to monitor outcomes to ensure eligibility and fund release, and competition for limited funding, with high-potential projects competing side by side.
Want to apply for this support, but need help? Contact us. Our expert consultants can help you prepare your application.
Andreia Arenga
16.10.2025
All rights reserved. This article is protected by copyright and may not be reproduced, distributed, transmitted or used, in whole or in part, without the prior written permission of Equações Exaustivas Lda. All trademarks, company names, logos and products mentioned are the property of their respective owners.
