The SME Fund is a grant scheme implemented by the EUIPO and designed to help EU SMEs protect their IPRs.

Voucher 1 (to partially cover IP Scan, trade mark and design fees) was reopened yesterday, after a temporary closure caused by budget exhaustion for the numerous applications received. Funds from expired vouchers that have not been used or have been partially used, have been decommitted and are now available to be used.

SMEs and representatives are now able to submit new applications and/or submit those they have kept in draft in their user area.

The applications for Voucher 2 (to use for patent fees) are still open.

The application period for both vouchers is foreseen to close on 16 December 2022, depending on whether funds will be available at the time. Funds are indeed limited and available on a first come, first served basis.

----

Following the special focus on SMEs by the European Commission and the EUIPO, ECTA established the ECTA SME Task Force in 2021 to assist our Association in taking active part in the EU debate and activities related to SMEs. ECTA aims to contribute to more and better use of IP by SMEs as well as to highlight the relevant role of IP practitioners in bringing this about.