Development contracts are a key facilitative tool for Italian companies, aimed at supporting industrial, agro-industrial, tourism and environmental protection programs. Managed by Invitalia and provided for by the Ministry of Enterprises and Made in Italy (MIMIT), these contracts offer State aid in the form of funding and contributions to promote growth and innovation in the national productive fabric
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What Are Development Contracts
The development contract is a financial support program aimed at companies that intend to make large investments. The available benefits include non-repayable contributions and soft loans, often combined with each other. To access these benefits, companies must submit a minimum investment of 20 million euros, reduced to 7.5 million euros for specific projects in the agricultural or tourism sector
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When to Apply
Applications for development contracts can be submitted at any time of the year through three separate concessional desks:
- Industrial development and environmental protection programs.
- Programs for the development of tourist activities.
- Technological development of the semiconductor supply chain.
Who Development Contracts Are For
Development contracts are intended for Italian or foreign companies of any size, which can operate individually or jointly, even through network contracts. The parties involved in development contracts include:
- Proposing entity: the company that promotes and coordinates the development program.
- Participating companies: other companies that participate in the program.
- Participating entities: entities involved in related research, development and innovation projects.
What does the Development Contract finance
Development contracts fund a wide range of projects, including:
- Industrial development: including the transformation and commercialization of agricultural products.
- Environmental protection: projects aimed at protecting the environment.
- Tourism development: including commercial projects related to tourist activities.
In addition, development contracts can finance research and innovation projects, as well as the construction of public infrastructure.
Types of Concessions
The benefits available under development contracts include:
- Subsidized loans: cover up to 75% of eligible expenses.
- Contributions against interest, facilities or expenses.
- Temporary investment in venture capital.
The size of the concessions varies according to the nature of the project, the location and the size of the company.
Eligible Expenses
Eligible expenses vary depending on the type of project:
- Industrial, tourism and environmental protection programs: they include costs for business land, masonry, infrastructure, machinery, patents, and consultancy.
- Research and development projects: they cover expenses for personnel, equipment, contract research and materials.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted online through the Invitalia platform. The application process includes the registration, compilation and submission of the request, which is then evaluated by Invitalia within 120 days. The granting of concessions depends on the positive outcome
of the evaluation.
Eligibility Requirements
To access the benefits, projects must meet at least two requirements including employment impact, development of supply chains, strengthening presence on foreign markets, technological contribution, and environmental impact.
Development Agreements
For large programs, with investments equal to or greater than 50 million euros (20 million for agricultural projects), it is possible to enter into Development Agreements between MIMIT, Invitalia and the proposing company, which offer a fast track for the evaluation and approval of the project.
Development contracts represent a strategic opportunity for Italian and foreign companies to invest in projects of great importance, benefiting from targeted concessions. Submitting the application requires attention to detail and a clear understanding of the requirements and procedures. Invitalia offers support to guide businesses through the application process
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