Italy allocates 950 million euros for Space Economy and innovation in the South

The Italian Ministry of Enterprises and Made in Italy has launched two new financial measures totaling 950 million euros to drive innovation, research, and technological development in Southern Italy. These initiatives specifically target the Space Economy and high-tech sectors.

The first measure, ‘Investimenti sostenibili 4.0’, allocates 448 million euros to micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises in Basilicata, Calabria, Campania, Molise, Puglia, Sicily, and Sardinia. This program supports digital integration in production processes, including artificial intelligence, the Internet of Things, cybersecurity, and additive manufacturing. Grants can cover up to 75% of eligible costs ranging from 750,000 to 5 million euros, with applications managed via the Invitalia platform.

The second measure, ‘Scoperta imprenditoriale II’, provides over 505 million euros from the Sustainable Growth Fund. This initiative supports industrial research and experimental development projects coordinated by companies, business networks, and research centers. Funding is directed toward enabling technologies, including satellite applications and dual-use civil and military systems.