Ukrainian small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) will now have the opportunity to apply for funding through the 2023 Ideas Powered for Business SME Fund. The decision was included through an addendum to the multiannual contribution agreement between the European Commission and the European Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO) and will present Ukrainian businesses an unprecedented opportunity to access funds that can be invested in protecting their intellectual property.

The decision reflects the European Union’s commitment to strengthen its relationship with its Eastern neighbour and foster economic stability in the region. It will provide valuable support for the Ukrainian economy, as SMEs play a significant role in driving innovation and creating jobs.

Earlier this year, a ground-breaking agreement was reached between the European Commission and Ukraine, allowing the latter to participate in the activities financed by the European Union under the Single Market Programme (SMP). The agreement provides Ukraine with support to businesses, facilitating access to markets, favourable business environment, sustainable growth and internationalization. This newly-announced addendum builds upon that agreement and opens up avenues for increased collaboration and economic growth.

2023 SME Fund

The Idea Powered for Business SME Fund is aimed at supporting innovation and entrepreneurship among small and medium-sized businesses. Financial support provided by the European Commission and the EUIPO to Ukraine-based SMEs will include:

• trade mark and design protection within the European Union (national, regional, EU level) for 75% of the fees up to a maximum of EUR 1,000
• patent protection or related activities within the European Union (national patents and European patents) for 75% of the fees up to a maximum of EUR 1,500
• plant variety protection at European level for 50% of the fees to a maximum of EUR 225

EUIPO and SMEs

The SME Fund is a European Commission initiative implemented by the European Union Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO). The decision to support Ukraine-based SMEs is in line with other measures implemented in recent times by the EUIPO under the Council Regulation to ease the pressure on those bearing the consequences of military aggression and natural disaster.

The SME Fund aligns with the EUIPO’s Strategic Plan 2025 and is one of several initiatives designed to support SMEs in identifying, protecting and maximising the value of their intellectual property.

EUIPO and Ukraine

The EUIPO has implemented a series of initiatives to support Ukraine and the Ukrainian people. This includes the establishment of a special Working Group to analyse and monitor the situation in the field of Intellectual Property Rights and to ensure the effective implementation of the measures decided at EU level.

The EUIPO has expressed its commitment to continue working closely with the Ukrainian authorities in the field of IP, ensuring dialogue and cooperation with EU Institutions and national offices in the EU.