03/01/2026 Aid to companies

SME Fund 2026 and the correct order to apply for brand and design aids

SMEs can access support from SME Fund 2026 to recover part of certain industrial property rates. The call contemplates 75% reimbursements for eligible trademarks and design rates within the European Union and 50% for certain international applications outside of it. Access depends on the conditions and the budget available.

See original publication on LinkedIn (3/10/2026)

first the help and then the protected application

The company must apply for the bonus and wait for it to be granted before starting the proceedings.

Important: Applying for the brand first and then asking for help can leave the expense out of the program.

Once granted, you must carry out and pay for eligible activities within the established deadlines.

Check: that the rate is covered by the bond and that the maximum amount is not exceeded.

Finally, you must submit the reimbursement request along with all required documentation.

REVIEW: That all the requirements are met and that the necessary documentation is provided.

Planning the registration without losing control of the deadlines

The help reduces certain costs, but does not replace the previous analysis of availability, classes and territories. It should also be assessed if waiting for the bond affects the release date or increases the risk of third-party requests.

It is advisable to designate a person in charge of the documentation: identification of the SME, bank account, proof of payment and concession communications. The bond’s validity and reimbursement terms must also be monitored.

The 2026 call was opened on February 2 and allows applications to be submitted until December 4, except for early exhaustion of funds. Before starting the procedure, the status of the bond must be checked.