Support for science-intensive start-ups
From the weekly review: Current funding opportunities for businesses
GoalTo support start-ups that commercialise technologies or products developed by scientific institutions.
Commercial companies registered in Latvia that develop products or technologies originating from a scientific institution in the EU, EEA, or Switzerland can receive up to 150 000 EUR with an 80% support intensity. The support covers research and development staff salaries, outsourced services, prototyping materials, participation in international exhibitions, and laboratory rent (up to 5000 EUR per month). The total programme budget is 3.15 million euros (ERDF), of which approximately 2.47 million euros remain as of 28 August 2026.
- Who it is for
- SMEs or small mid-cap category enterprises that develop science-intensive technologies at readiness levels TRL4–TRL8.
- Support amount
- Up to 150 000 EUR.
- Deadline
- OngoingContinuous application while funding is available; supported project activities must be completed by 30 April 2027, the programme ends on 29 February 2028.
Who can apply
Applications can be submitted by companies registered in Latvia or Latvian branches of foreign companies that qualify as deep-tech start-ups (commercialising technology developed by a research organisation under transferred rights or scientist ownership). Eligible applicants include SMEs, small mid-caps, mid-caps, and large enterprises collaborating with SMEs. The technology readiness level must be between completed TRL 4 and TRL 8, aligned with RIS3 goals.
Maximum support
Support for one application does not exceed EUR 150,000.
Share of costs covered
The support rate is up to 80%.
What can be paid for
- Staff salaries and mandatory social security contributions for developing new products or technologies
- External service costs for prototyping and commercialisation
- Purchase of components and materials for prototyping
- Participation in international exhibitions, conferences, trade missions, and national stands
- Rental and utilities for research premises (laboratories) up to EUR 5,000 per month
- Indirect eligible costs
What cannot be paid for
- Discontinuation of a part of a process
- Capital replacement, machinery, or software updates without specification upgrades
- Product adjustments and changes due to component price changes
- Resale of goods or processes from other manufacturers
- Aesthetic, taste, or fragrance changes for marketing purposes
- Improving internal organisational processes or internal software development
Key conditions
- Support is granted under de minimis rules with company co-financing of at least 20%
- Project implementation period is up to 24 months, but no later than 30 April 2027
- Advance payment of up to 50% of the total project funding is available
- For TRL 8 solutions, non-public investment or applicant contribution of at least EUR 10,000 must be proven
- End-customer involvement must be proven (e.g. letter of intent or recommendation)
- Obligation to submit reports to the Central Statistical Bureau and complete surveys during and after the project
How to apply
Submit the application electronically on the business.gov.lv portal under the 'E-services' section. Attach the SME declaration, de minimis form number, TRL justification, and client involvement proof. LIAA assesses the application within one month and concludes a grant agreement.
This summary is written in plain language from the programme rules. For the exact requirements, see the legal act.
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