European Union
January 22, 2024
In a strategic move to empower small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), the European Union Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO), in collaboration with the European Commission and Member State IP offices, has launched the 2024 SME Fund. With a generous allocation of 20 million euros, this fund is dedicated to bolstering Intellectual Property (IP) protection for SMEs, thereby strengthening their market competitiveness.
This year, the fund places a significant focus on the breeding sector, underlining the commitment of the Community Plant Variety Office to ensure that SMEs engaged in the development of new plant varieties are fully recognized and protected. This emphasis is geared towards fostering a thriving environment for SME innovation and growth in the sector.
A key feature of the 2024 SME Fund is the introduction of 'Voucher 4', a 1,500 euros voucher specifically aimed at subsidizing up to 75% of the costs associated with online application fees and the first-year examination fees at the CPVO. Targeting new applications, this voucher does not limit the number of Community Plant Variety Rights (CPVR) applications but maintains a 1,500 euros cap per voucher.
The voucher application process is streamlined for efficiency. SMEs can apply through the EUIPO Portal, receive their grant and vouchers, submit their CPVR application, and then request reimbursement from the EUIPO. A detailed guide, including all necessary documents, procedures, and contact information, is available to ensure a smooth application process.
Due to the first-come, first-served nature of the voucher allocation, SMEs are urged to act quickly to take advantage of this opportunity, as the fund will be distributed until it is depleted.
With the CPVO at the forefront, alongside the EUIPO and Member State IP offices, there is a strong support system in place to assist SMEs through this initiative, reaffirming the commitment to cultivating a robust IP framework for small and medium-sized businesses, particularly in the plant breeding sector.
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