Smart&Start Italia Funding 2026
Program Overview
Smart&Start Italia is Italy's main national incentive for innovative startups, managed by Invitalia on behalf of the Ministry of Enterprises and Made in Italy (MIMIT). The program finances business plans between €100,000 and €1.5 million with interest-free financing covering 80-90% of eligible expenses.
Funding Structure
Standard coverage: 80% interest-free financing of eligible expenses. Enhanced coverage (90%): Available if startup is comprised entirely of women and/or people under 36, or includes a PhD engaged abroad. Central-South Italy bonus: Additional 30% non-repayable contribution for startups headquartered in these regions. This combination provides substantial capital support with minimal repayment burden.
Eligible Expenses
Funding covers: Purchase of investment goods and services, personnel expenses for the startup team, corporate function costs and operational expenses. Projects must demonstrate technological and innovative content, orientation towards digital economy/AI/blockchain/IoT development, or focus on economic valorization of public or private research results.
Application Process
Smart&Start Italia operates on first-come, first-served basis with no rankings or set deadlines. Applications are evaluated in chronological order of submission. Submit through Invitalia's online platform at www.invitalia.it with comprehensive business plan, financial projections, and proof of innovative characteristics.
Key Requirements
Must be registered as an innovative startup in Italy's special section of the Business Register, project scope between €100,000 and €1.5 million, demonstrate significant technological or innovative content, and present viable commercialization plan. The program remains active across entire Italian territory in 2026.
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