Italian firms boost AI spending, but governance gaps persist

The Chamber of Commerce of Varese has launched an AI voucher programme that covers 70 % of costs – up to €8,400 – to help micro, small and medium enterprises adopt artificial‑intelligence tools and improve cyber‑security. A separate SAP‑Oxford Economics study shows Italian companies plan to invest $18.4 million in AI in 2026, a figure that is expected to rise 45 % over the next two years, with a projected ROI of 20 % this year climbing to 38 % in two years. AI already supports about 26 % of business activities and is forecast to reach 44 % by 2028. Despite the spending surge, only 12 % of firms have a structured AI governance framework and 45 % lack a dedicated AI leader. Micro‑enterprises, which make up 94.5 % of Italy’s firms, often do not understand AI’s purpose, with 47 % of non‑users unsure of its benefits. The shift toward AI is also redefining IT budgets: IBM reports that capital is moving from software licences to servers, storage, networking and cybersecurity, delaying many software projects. A new ISO/IEC 42001 standard provides a certification framework for AI management systems. From 2 August, the EU AI Act will begin enforcement, and many Italian companies risk fines of up to €35 million for non‑compliance. Investors remain cautious, noting that AI’s market impact is significant but that strategic, data‑quality and governance issues must be resolved.