How do De Minimis Aid Measures work?
De Minimis Aid Measures work by establishing a maximum threshold for the amount of aid that a company can receive within a three-year period. This threshold is currently set at €200,000 per company, which means that any aid received by a company under this limit is considered to have a negligible impact on competition in the market.
What are the eligible expenses under De Minimis Aid Measures?
Under De Minimis Aid Measures, eligible expenses can include various forms of assistance provided to businesses, such as grants, loans, guarantees, or tax advantages. This aid can be used for a wide range of purposes, including investments, training programs, research and development activities, and marketing initiatives.
Who can benefit from De Minimis Aid Measures?
De Minimis Aid Measures are designed to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the European Union. SMEs are defined as companies with fewer than 250 employees and an annual turnover not exceeding €50 million, or a balance sheet total not exceeding €43 million.
However, it is important to note that certain sectors, such as fisheries and agriculture, have specific rules and thresholds for De Minimis Aid Measures, which may differ from the general criteria mentioned above.
Are there any limitations to De Minimis Aid Measures?
While De Minimis Aid Measures provide flexibility and easier access to financial assistance for businesses, there are certain limitations to consider:
- The maximum threshold of €200,000 applies to the total amount of aid received by a company within a three-year period.
- If a company has already received De Minimis aid in the past, it is important to keep track of the amounts received to ensure they do not exceed the threshold.
- If a company receives aid that exceeds the threshold, it must seek approval from the European Commission before accepting the additional aid.
- De Minimis Aid Measures cannot be combined with other state aid schemes that cover the same eligible expenses.
De Minimis Aid Measures in 2021 provide an opportunity for small and medium-sized enterprises to receive financial assistance within certain limits, without requiring prior approval from the European Commission. These measures aim to support businesses and promote fair competition in the market, while ensuring that the aid granted has a negligible impact on competition. It is important for companies to adhere to the maximum threshold and keep track of any aid received to ensure compliance with the regulations.
For further information on De Minimis Aid Measures, it is advisable to consult the official guidelines provided by the European Commission or seek professional assistance from legal or financial experts.