Portugal 2030 is the latest framework of European funds that will boost investment and development in Portugal over the next few years. With more than 23 billion euros available, this program is a strategic opportunity for companies of all sizes that want to grow, innovate and compete in national and international markets.
In this article, we try to clarify what Portugal 2030 is, what the main support for companies is and how you can take advantage of these opportunities. We also present the 2025 Call Plan, focused on private initiatives under the ERDF and ESF+ programs, so that you can plan your applications effectively, efficiently and predictably.
What is Portugal 2030?
Portugal 2030 is the successor to Portugal 2020 and is part of the European Union’s cohesion policy, which aims to promote economic growth, social inclusion and territorial development. The program covers the period from 2021 to 2027, with practical effects extending to 2029.
The funding is distributed among various national and regional operational programs, which are aligned with five major European objectives:
- Smarter Portugal – Support for innovation, digitalization and business competitiveness.
- Greener Portugal – Investment in the climate and energy transition.
- A more connected Portugal – Development of transport infrastructures and digital networks.
- Portugal more social – Promoting social inclusion, employment and education.
- Portugal closer to the citizens – Support for local development and territorial cohesion.
For private companies, the most relevant programs are the ERDF (European Regional Development Fund) and the ESF+ (European Social Fund Plus).
ERDF and ESF+: What are they and what are they for?
ERDF – European Regional Development Fund
The ERDF aims to strengthen economic and social cohesion between European regions, promoting balanced development. In the business context, it finances projects linked to:
- Innovation and competitiveness;
- Digital transformation;
- Internationalization and access to new markets;
- Energy efficiency and environmental sustainability.
Support can take the form of non-repayable incentives or financing with favorable conditions, covering eligible expenses related to investments in infrastructure, the purchase of equipment, consultancy services and the development of new products or processes.
ESF+ – European Social Fund Plus
The ESF+ focuses on investment in human capital, which is essential for projects aimed at:
- Vocational training and retraining of workers;
- Promoting employment and social inclusion;
- Support for startups and entrepreneurship;
- Improving digital and technological skills.
This fund is particularly relevant for companies wishing to qualify their teams or implement advanced training programs.
2025 Call for Proposals: Funding Opportunities for Companies
Portugal 2030’s Annual Call Plan sets out the calls for tenders that will open throughout the year, indicating the planned dates, investment areas and financial allocations.
At Frontwave, we have analyzed this plan and created an exclusive guide for private initiatives, focusing on the ERDF and ESF+ programs. Our guide is structured by quarter, so you can plan strategically:
- 1st Quarter (January to March): Opportunities in technological innovation and environmental sustainability.
- 2nd quarter (April to June): Support for internationalization and digitization of business processes.
- 3rd quarter (July to September): Funding for energy efficiency and vocational training.
- 4th Quarter (October to December): Incentives for social inclusion and digital transformation projects.
👇 Download our 2025 Warning Plan Guide here
How can Frontwave support your company?
Applying for European funding can be complex and demanding. At Frontwave, we are specialists in European funding and offer complete support:
- Identifying the opportunities best suited to your company’s profile;
- Preparation of successful applications, with a strategic approach to maximize the score;
- Management of funded projects, ensuring compliance with all the obligations and targets set.
Do you have a project and are looking for funding? 💼 Contact us and find out how Portugal 2030 can be the engine of growth for your company.
