Framed within the Northern Regional Program (NORTE 2030), under the priority “More Competitive North,” this notice aims to support small-scale investments. These investments are intended for the creation, expansion, or modernization of business activities, contributing to employment and the resilience of local economies.
Eligible projects must have a minimum investment of 25 thousand euros and a maximum of 300 thousand euros. Operations will have a maximum duration of 24 months and must not have been initiated before the application submission.
The total available allocation amounts to 2,157,367.46 euros, co-financed by the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF). Of this sum, 862,946.98 euros are allocated to the creation of new companies (up to one year of activity), while 1,294,420.48 euros are for existing companies. Approximately 40% of each allocation is reserved for low-density territories, with the possibility of reallocating unused funds.
The financing rate is 50% for investments in low-density territories and 40% in other territories. These rates may be increased by 10 percentage points if projects align with the PROVERE Minho In Collective Efficiency Strategy.
Micro and small enterprises based in NUTS III Cávado, legally constituted and with activity initiated at least three months prior, are eligible to apply. They must maintain organized accounting and have at least one paid job. For companies over one year old, the 2025 turnover must evidence the project's CAE.
Eligible economic activities (CAE) include: Manufacturing of computer equipment (26), textiles (13), apparel (14), fabricated metal products (25), accommodation (55, excluding 554 and 55201, only in low-density and rural parishes), organization of tourist entertainment activities (93293), and research and development (7210).
Applications must be submitted through the Balcão dos Fundos (balcaofundosue.pt) by 18:00 on November 30, 2026. For further information, contact CIM Cávado via email at si@cimcavado.pt.
