In 2024, numerous concessions and contributions were available for companies in the Italian South, thanks to measures extended by the Budget Law, incentives already in force and new opportunities introduced by subsequent decrees. These bonuses are intended both for those who want to start a new business and for those who already have a business and intend to develop it further.
Below, we present a detailed guide on all the benefits active in 2024, with particular attention to the changes introduced.
Table of Contents:
1. Rest in the South
The “Rest in the South” measure remains active in 2024, offering incentives for companies already established or being established in the southern regions, islands and areas of the so-called “seismic crater” of Lazio, Marche and Umbria. The incentive combines non-repayable contributions with bank loans, and is accessible to entrepreneurs and freelancers under 56
.
2. South Decontribution
The ‘Southern Decontribution’ continues to be available in 2024. This measure provides a contribution exemption for employers in the South, with a reduction of 30% until 2025, 20% until 2027 and 10% until 2029. The objective is to protect employment levels, mitigating the negative effects
of the pandemic.
3. Rest in the South 2.0
“Rest in the South 2.0” is an incentive package aimed at young people under 35 who start a business in the southern regions. This program provides vouchers for the purchase of goods and services, or non-repayable contributions that cover up to 75% of investments, with a maximum of 200,000 euros
.
4. Bonus ZES
The “ZES 2024 Bonus” offers a 100% exemption from social security contributions for private employers who hire permanent staff in the southern regions. This incentive is reserved for companies with headquarters or production units in the special economic zones of Southern Italy
.
5. Agrisolare Park Photovoltaic Incentive Call
From September 16, 2024, it is possible to request incentives for the installation of photovoltaic systems in the regions of the South. This call is aimed exclusively at interventions in Abruzzo, Basilicata, Calabria, Campania, Molise, Puglia, Sardinia
and Sicily.
6. FRI: Aid for Research and Development Projects in the South
With a total contribution of more than 470 million euros, the Business Revolving Fund (FRI) finances research and development projects in the southern regions. The initiative is intended for large projects, with a value between 3 and 20 million euros
.
7. Bonus Investments in Research and Development for the South
The Bonus for Research and Development in the South is available in 2024 in the form of a tax credit with increased rates of up to 45% for small businesses in southern regions. This incentive is valid until 2025.
8. ZES Unica Sud Tax Credit
Companies in the South that purchase capital goods for productive structures in the southern regions can benefit from the “Single ZES Tax Credit” for the three-year period 2024-2026. This incentive offers a contribution in the form of a tax credit.
9. Contribution to a Lost Fund for Tourism Companies
Tourism companies operating throughout Italy can request the non-repayable contribution provided for by the FRI-TUR 2024 call for non-repayable funds until 12 September 2024. This call aims to support investments to improve tourist services and facilities.
10. NIDI: Call in Puglia
The “New Business Initiatives” (NIDI) program in Puglia supports self-employment for young people, women, the unemployed and other disadvantaged groups. With a budget of 40 million euros, NIDI promotes the creation of new businesses and youth and women’s entrepreneurship
.
