Startup Competitiveness Incentive System (SICS): New support for Innovation

With the launch of the Startup Competitiveness Incentive System (SICS) (Ministerial Order no. 49/2025), a new chapter has opened for the entrepreneurial ecosystem in Portugal. This initiative offers new support for innovation by startups and SMEs, promoting internationalization, knowledge transfer and investment in cutting-edge technology. This is a strategic opportunity for Portuguese companies to grow and compete on a global level.

SICS: Strategic Opportunity for Startups and SMEs

Part of the Accelerate the Economy Program, presented in July 2024, SICS aims to boost innovation and the competitiveness of national companies. This incentive supports disruptive projects, promoting a more dynamic and robust business ecosystem.

The Ordinance establishes three types of financial support:

Startup Competitiveness Incentive System (SICS) – Deep Tech Voucher (60.000€)

Funding for technology-based startups with internationalization potential. The support can be used for:

  • Intellectual property strategy and consolidation;
  • Regulatory processes and certification;
  • Legal advice and support in investment processes;
  • Prototyping and product development;
  • Integration of ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) criteria into business processes;
  • Recruitment and talent management;
  • Market research for the Go-to-Market strategy.

Payment: 70% in advance after validation of the acceptance form and 30% in the final balance, after approval of the final report (up to 45 working days).

Startup Competitiveness Incentive System (SICS) – Go to EIC Accelerator Voucher (€10,000)

Financial support for startups wishing to apply for phase 2 of the European Innovation Council (EIC) Accelerator.

  • Covers the costs of preparing the application;
  • Includes graphic design and video production services for the pitch deck.

Payment: 100% in advance after submission of the acceptance form. Beneficiary companies are required to submit an application to the EIC Accelerator.

Startup Competitiveness Incentive System (SICS) – Start from Knowledge Program (30.000€)

Incentives for the creation of academic startups and the transfer of scientific and technological knowledge to the market.

The financing can be used for

  • Incubation and acceleration;
  • Study and preparation for starting a business;
  • Participation in international fairs and events;
  • Development of marketing strategy (including visual identity, pitch deck and video pitch);
  • Pilot projects to validate the business model;
  • Research and development.

Payment: 100% in advance after submission of the acceptance form.

SICS Application Process: How to Ensure Success?

SICS support is aimed at micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), including startups, which meet the following requirements:

Companies legally incorporated and with regularized activity;
✔ Regularized tax and contributory status;
✔ Electronic certification of SME status;
✔ Adequate human resources and technical capacity for the project.

Applications will be submitted through calls for tenders whose notices will be published by the National Innovation Agency (ANI). The funding decision will be announced within 30 working days of submission.

To maximize your chances of success, it is essential to prepare a well-founded application in line with the program’s objectives.

INOVA+, with extensive experience in innovation and financing, supports companies in identifying and applying for incentive programs. With in-depth knowledge of the entrepreneurial ecosystem and a strategic approach, we are the right partner to turn innovative ideas into successful projects. Get in touch!