MOEA Invests Over NT$12.9 Billion in 25 Years, Subsidizing 8,100 SME Innovation Projects

Central News Agency, Taipei, May 31. The Ministry of Economic Affairs' Small and Medium Enterprise and Startup Administration (SMESA) has promoted the 'Small Business Innovation Research' (SBIR) program for over 25 years. To date, it has approved over 8,100 subsidies, investing NT$12.9 billion and driving NT$24.2 billion in R&D investment from companies. SMESA stated that this year's SBIR budget is approximately NT$350 million, and as of the end of April, the number of applications reached 222, an increase of nearly 20% year-on-year. Since 1999, the SBIR has covered six major industries, including consumer chemicals, biotechnology, electronics, ICT, machinery, and services. In recent years, services, consumer chemicals, and machinery have been the most prominent. Subsidies vary by stage, with up to NT$1.5 million for Phase 1, NT$12 million for Phase 2, and up to NT$30 million for alliance-type projects. SMESA has increased the subsidy caps this year to encourage innovation. The administration noted that in line with government AI policies, SMEs are accelerating digital transformation, with the 'service' and 'ICT' sectors being the most active. Regarding the coordination with President Lai Ching-te's NT$100 billion upgrade plan, SMESA stated it will continue to adjust its approach to support SME innovation.