Eligible firms and projects
The measure targets internationally oriented companies, especially micro, small and medium enterprises. Under the applicable conditions, non-exporting firms in a production supply chain may also qualify. A generic software purchase is insufficient: expenditure and the industrial project must meet the operational circular.
Terms and limits
As of 23 September 2026, SIMEST lists a 0.371% subsidised rate, a €200 million allocation for AI and Quantum, a 50% advance and a term of up to eight years, including two years of pre-amortisation, for projects allocating all resources to AI or Quantum. A non-repayable component of up to 10%, capped at €100,000, depends on eligibility. The minimum financing is €10,000; the maximum is the lower of 35% of average revenue from the last two financial statements and €500,000 for micro firms, €2.5 million for SMEs and innovative SMEs, or €5 million for other firms.
Documents and checks
Before applying, check international orientation or another eligible category, project scope and expenditure, de minimis capacity, cumulation of aid and repayment capacity. The portal requires the documentation in the operational circular, details of the legal representative and beneficial owner, the articles of association and, if available, the dedicated account agreement. Documents must be digitally signed.
Practical step and deadline
Prepare a project brief covering the objective, technology, suppliers, cost, schedule, expected impact and link to international activity. Compare it with the operational circular and check portal availability before applying. The official page consulted on 23 September does not state a closing date for this section. Approval depends on eligibility, assessment, available funding and a positive committee decision.
To review a project before applying, visit Funding, see our method or request a preliminary document review.
Official SIMEST source (Italian) ↗
General information only. Each case requires an individual assessment.