Frequently Asked Questions
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What is a Test Bed?
The concept of Test Beds aims to provide infrastructure and equipment by entities that possess installed capacity, to offer services to SMEs and Startups. These services involve the testing and experimentation of innovative products and services from these SMEs and Startups, in physical or virtual spaces.
What is the primary goal of a Test Bed?
The concept of Test Beds aims to create and provide suitable infrastructure and equipment through robust and well-positioned companies capable of providing these services to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and startups. The services include testing and experimentation of products or systems, in physical or virtual spaces. Thus, the Test Beds aim to increase the number of commercially viable product pilots, accelerating the cycle of their innovation, and achieving a Technology Readiness Level (TRL) between 7 and 9 by 2025.
Who can apply to the Test Bed?
National startups and SMEs with a Portuguese tax identification number (NIF).
What is considered a pilot?
A pilot refers to new digital products or services developed, which are subject to testing and experimentation services provided by CPN Test Bed.
What is the funding amount for participating companies per pilot product?
The maximum amount of services to be provided per pilot product is €40,000.
Can participating companies develop multiple pilot products?
Each company can utilize the services of a test bed for one or more pilot products. There is no limit on pilots per entity.
What is the deadline for pilot development?
CPN Test Bed will support SMEs and startups at a price lower than market rates, until September 2025.
Can participating startups also be reimbursed for the allocation of some of their human resources in product development?
As per NOTICE No. 03/C16-i02/2022, participating companies are exclusively supported through the benefit provided by Test Bed operators. These operators offer services at rates below market prices, determining the amount of assistance to participating companies under the minimis aid regime, up to a limit of €200,000 for 3 financial years.
Can pilot products developed under Mobilizing Agendas be counted for the Test Beds?
Yes, pilot products developed under Mobilizing Agendas can be counted provided that:
· they are the subject of services provided by the Test Bed;
· duplication of funding is avoided;
· they fit the definition of a pilot product as stated in the Call for Proposals of the National Test Beds Network.
