The Government of Portugal will implement a new standard under the Portugal 2030 (PT 2030) program that provides for a specific allocation of incentive funds for companies in low-density territories. The measure requires that 40% of European funds dedicated to the incentive system for companies be allocated to these territories, guaranteeing additional support for the country’s least populated regions. This policy aims to promote economic development and the creation of opportunities in inland areas, which face significant challenges in terms of investment and economic growth.

According to the Minister of Territorial Cohesion, Manuel Castro Almeida, this will be the first time that a differentiation of financial support based on geographic location has been introduced, with a margin of 20 percentage points between subsidies granted to companies in low-density territories and those located in other regions. Thus, companies located in more depopulated territories will have privileged access to subsidies of up to 50%, while those in other areas will not benefit from the same financing conditions.

The government’s decision is part of a broader effort to strengthen territorial cohesion, combating disparities between the more developed coastal regions and the interior, which faces challenges of depopulation, population aging and lack of infrastructure. By channeling a significant part of the funds to these regions, the Government intends not only to encourage economic growth, but also to encourage the settlement of populations, improve the quality of life and promote the sustainability of local communities.

This step represents a political commitment to ensure that the country’s least favored regions have the necessary tools and resources to compete economically and attract new investment, which can have a positive impact on the country’s balanced development in the long term.