AI Financing in SMEs in Portugal: Up to €300,000 in Non-Refundable Grants

 Artificial Intelligence (AI) is transforming how companies operate and compete worldwide. In Portugal, this technological revolution is now supported by a new public incentive: the “AI for SMEs” program, funded by the Recovery and Resilience Plan (PRR). 

Notice no. 03/C05-i14.01/2025 is aimed at micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in mainland Portugal and offers non-repayable grants covering up to 75% of eligible expenses, with a maximum cap of €300,000 per company. 

This is a unique opportunity for Portuguese SMEs to integrate AI and automation into their business processes, reducing financial risk and accelerating digital transformation. 

Why Your Company Should Invest in Artificial Intelligence 

The INBOUND 2025 conference showed that Artificial Intelligence is no longer a futuristic concept, but a transformative force of the present. Today it’s a strategic instrument for competitiveness and efficiency. Key benefits for companies include: 

• Greater efficiency and productivity: Automating administrative, operational, and commercial tasks frees up time and resources for higher-value activities; 

• Data-driven decision-making: Predictive analytics and machine learning algorithms help anticipate trends, optimize inventory, and improve margins; 

• Improved customer experience: Chatbots, recommendation systems, and intelligent service make interactions faster and more personalized; 

• Reduced financial risk of innovation: With non-repayable public support, companies can invest in AI without compromising liquidity. 

Overview of the “AI for SMEs” Grant 

Who Can Apply 

Micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises may apply if they meet the following conditions: 

• Hold a valid SME certification; 

• Have organized accounting; 

• Be in good standing with the Tax Authority and Social Security; 

• Be registered in the Central Register of the Beneficial Owner (RCBE); 

• Not be classified as a company in difficulty; 

• Carry out the project in mainland Portugal. 

Main Eligible Expenses 

Eligible expenses are those that directly contribute to developing and integrating AI solutions in the business, namely: 

• Purchase of equipment and hardware required to implement the solution; 

• Software, licenses, and subscriptions associated with AI and automation systems; 

• Hiring specialized technicians or project managers for execution; 

• Consulting and training specific to AI and digital transformation; 

• Audit or accounting validation services associated with the project. 

Application & Funding Process 

Applications are submitted through the SIGA-BF (Final Beneficiary) system or the platform indicated in the PRR notice. 

After approval, the beneficiary signs the Terms of Acceptance and receives an advance of 30% of the approved amount, with no need to present expenses at that stage. 

During implementation, it is possible to submit interim reimbursement requests, up to 95% of the total support. The remaining balance is paid after final validation of eligible expenses. 

The maximum implementation period is 24 months, with the possibility of an extension of up to 6 months, subject to a well-founded justification. 

Read also: HubSpot CRM: 6 Strategies to Improve SMB Commercial Efficiency 

Best Practices for a Successful Application (Step-by-Step) 

1. Rigorous initial diagnosis: identify processes with the highest automation potential and measurable gains.
2. Detailed planning: present a realistic timeline with clear milestones and justified budgets. 
3. Focus on technical and economic viability: demonstrate the impact on productivity and the company’s competitiveness. 
4. Team involvement: ensure training and internal alignment for effective adoption of AI solutions.
5.  Document compliance: ensure the validity of certifications, registrations, and supporting documents before submission. 
6. Timely submission: avoid last-minute applications to prevent platform congestion or failures. 

The Path to a Sustainable Digital Transformation 

The “AI for SMEs” funding represents one of the most relevant PRR initiatives in Portugal to boost technological innovation and business digitalization. 

By investing in Artificial Intelligence, companies gain agility, analytical capability, and new growth opportunities. This is the ideal time to turn technology into competitive advantage—with public financial support and without compromising organizational stability.