The European Commission and EUIPO recently launched “IP Vouchers” entitling SME’s to a partial refund of a trademark-application though out 2021.
What does it mean for you?
Each IP Voucher entitles SME’s to a refund of up to 50% of the basic fee of a trademark application throughout 2021.
Are you eligible ?
Any company meeting the European Commission’s definition of an SME can apply for the IP-Voucher. This criteria to be met are: (i) employment of less than 250 employees, (ii) an annual turnover of less than 50 million euros and (iii) a total balance sheet not exceeding 43 million euros.
How does it work?
The SME should apply for the IP Voucher at the EUIPO within a certain period throughout 2021. When an IP Voucher has been granted, the trademark application should be filed within 30 days upon receipt of the IP Voucher.
Application time-frames:
The remaining application windows are the months of March, May, July and September. In each time-frame, 4 million euros’ worth of IP Vouchers will be offered.
Take into account that the IP Vouchers are granted on a first come, first served basis in each of those months. Therefore, it is recommended to apply as early as possible in the time-frame of choice.
