Who can apply
Eligible applicants include small innovative startups established no more than 60 months ago and registered in the special section of the Italian companies register. Teams planning to establish a startup can also apply. Invitalia sets specific conditions for foreign nationals holding a startup Visa and foreign businesses establishing an Italian office. A newly formed company is not automatically an innovative startup.
Plans and eligible costs
Business plans must include expenditure between €100,000 and €1.5 million. Projects should have significant technological and innovative content, focus on digital-economy products or solutions, or commercialise research results. Invitalia lists machinery, hardware and software, licences, technology development, personnel, specialist advice and certain operating costs. Every cost must comply with the scheme rules and fit the plan. The plan is to be completed within 24 months after the agreement is signed.
How support works
Invitalia lists a zero-interest loan covering 80% of eligible costs. The percentage can rise to 90% for companies wholly owned by women and/or people under 36, or with an eligible research doctorate holder working abroad, subject to the detailed rules. Startups located in Central or Southern Italy may receive a 30% non-repayable component. These percentages must not be added mechanically: check the calculation base, form of aid, cumulation rules and award decision.
Five checks before applying
Establish the innovation and target market; check the team and special-register status or incorporation route; link each cost to a project phase and timetable; forecast own funding, cash needs and disbursement timing; assemble technical, financial and commercial evidence. There is no standard closing date on the scheme page, but check notices, forms and available resources immediately before filing. Assess eligibility and financial sustainability before completing the form.
Review your project through Funding, Founder and partnerships · IT, Business strategy and Contact.
Official Invitalia page (Italian) ↗ · Eligible costs (Italian) ↗
General information only. Each case requires an individual assessment.