Applications now open for StartUP Voucher Innovate 2025–2026
The StartUP Voucher Innovate 2025-2026, promoted by IAPMEI (Agência para a Competitividade e Inovação), the Portuguese government agency responsible for supporting competitiveness, entrepreneurship and innovation, is now accepting applications from young graduates with innovative, technology-based business ideas.
The
initiative aims to support young people in developing their entrepreneurial
potential and creating their own employment, providing a structured pathway to
turn early-stage ideas into viable business projects. The programme is
particularly relevant to the development of innovative solutions with a
positive contribution to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), while
incorporating Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) principles.
The
programme is aimed at young people up to 29 years old, holding a
university degree or higher qualification, who are not currently studying,
undertaking training or working, and have no other sources of income.
Applicants
must also have their tax residence in one of Portugal’s NUTS II regions of
the North, Centre or Alentejo, and their projects must still be at the idea
stage.
Selected
participants will follow a structured nine-month programme divided into
three development phases, combining financial support with training, mentoring
and access to the entrepreneurial ecosystem.
The
financial support includes:
- A monthly grant of €900, with up to two grants per project;
- Interim awards of €1,500 at the beginning of the second and third phases;
- A €2,000 completion award following the creation of the participant’s own employment.
Beyond
financial support, participants gain access to the National Incubator
Network and the National Mentor Network, as well as practical
activities, technical content, networking opportunities and Demo Days.
The
programme also includes thematic sessions, bootcamps, skill labs and technical
clinics, together with opportunities for immersion in a business environment
and meetings with organisations from the entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Participants can additionally benefit from specialised support focused on ESG
and the Sustainable Development Goals.
Applications
for the current call are open until 25 August 2026.
For full eligibility conditions, application
guidance and the application platform, consult the official IAPMEI StartUP Voucher Innovate 2025–2026 page.
