Italy allocates 9.4 billion euros for university funding in 2026
Italy's Minister of University and Research, Anna Maria Bernini, has signed the decree for the 2026 Ordinary Financing Fund (FFO), allocating a total of 9.415 billion euros to state universities. This represents a 26% increase compared to 2019 and an increase of 25.6 million euros over 2025.
The funding is intended to support teaching, research, personnel, and university operations. A new measure introduced for 2026 will allow universities to directly fund strategic and innovative projects. Major recipients include Sapienza University of Rome (555.1 million euros), the University of Bologna (464.1 million euros), and the University of Naples Federico II (408.2 million euros).
Regional allocations show significant growth across several territories. For example, Emilia-Romagna will receive approximately 870.4 million euros, Veneto over 643 million euros, and Tuscany over 720 million euros. In the Marche region, universities will receive nearly 233 million euros, while Sicily is allocated 556.3 million euros. The minister stated the goal is to "make the Italian university system increasingly attractive and international."
Entities: Anna Maria Bernini · Isabella Pagano · Istituto Nazionale di Astrofisica (INAF) · Ministry of University and Research · Ministry of University and Research (MUR) · Roberto Ragazzoni · Sapienza University of Rome · University of Bologna · University of Calabria · University of Naples Federico II · University of Padua