The Norwegian government has proposed significant changes to the Skattefunn scheme, mainly affecting how startups can claim deductions. The most notable change is the elimination of the guarantee period, which means that firms cannot claim R&D cost deductions prior to project approval by the Research Council.
This new policy will only allow deductions for costs incurred after the Research Council gives its formal approval. Additionally, the 2027 budget aims to expand tax-advantaged savings accounts for small investors to include shares listed on Euronext Growth, enhancing investment options for these consumers.
These adjustments may increase the administrative burden for startups, making it challenging for them to support ongoing R&D activities during the approval waiting period.