State aid: Commission approves €22 million Portuguese scheme to support micro, small and medium-sized enterprises in the region of Madeira in context of coronavirus outbreak

Source: European Commission Spokesperson’s Service

The European Commission has approved a €22 million Portuguese scheme to support micro, small and medium-sized enterprises with head offices and activity in the region of Madeira, in the context of
the coronavirus outbreak. The scheme, called “APOIAR.PT.Madeira”, will be open to such companies operating in the sectors most severely affected by the economic impact of the coronavirus outbreak.
The measure was approved under the State aid Temporary
Framework. Under the scheme, the public support will take the form of direct grants to companies that have experienced a fall in turnover of at least 25% in 2020, compared to the same period in
2019. The Commission found that the Portuguese measure is in line with the conditions set out in the Temporary Framework. In particular, (i) the support will not exceed €1.8 million per company;
and (ii) the aid will be granted no later than 31 December 2021. The Commission concluded that the measure is necessary, appropriate and proportionate to remedy a serious disturbance in the economy
of a Member State, in line with Article 107(3)(b) TFEU and the conditions set out in the Temporary Framework. On this basis, the Commission approved the measure under EU State aid rules. More
information on the Temporary Framework and other actions taken by the Commission to address the economic impact of the coronavirus pandemic can be found here.
The non-confidential version of the decision will be made available under the case number SA.62647 in the State aid register on the
Commission’s competition website once any
confidentiality issues have been resolved.