The Measure
The SIMEST Digital or Ecological Transition measure, governed by Circular No. 4/394/2023 (updated on April 30, 2026), supports Italian companies investing in digital innovation, ecological transition, and capital strengthening to enhance their competitiveness in international markets.
The measure provides a subsidized loan and, where specific eligibility requirements are met, a non-repayable co-financing grant.
An Opportunity for Innovation, Sustainability, and Growth
As a general rule, at least 50% of the approved financing must be allocated to digital and/or ecological investments. The remaining amount, up to 50%, may be used to support additional investments aimed at strengthening the company’s capital base, including investments in Italy.
For certain categories of companies, the share that may be allocated to these additional investments is higher:
- Up to 80% for companies with business interests in the Western Balkans or the United States
- Up to 90% for energy-intensive companies, businesses implementing energy efficiency projects, companies eligible under the Energy for International Competitiveness measure, and companies with local units or operating sites located in areas affected by exceptional weather events
Who Can Apply
The measure is available to microenterprises, SMEs, innovative start-ups, and other companies headquartered in Italy with an international business profile, provided they meet the applicable regulatory requirements.
Eligibility criteria include:
- At least two approved and filed financial statements
- Compliance with environmental regulations
- Evidence of internationalization, such as a minimum level of export revenue or participation in export-oriented supply chains
Eligible Investments
The measure supports investments in:
- Digitalization of business processes
- Industry 4.0 technologies
- Cybersecurity
- Cloud solutions
- Software and digital systems
- Specialized consulting services
Eligible investments also include:
- Energy and water efficiency initiatives
- Environmental sustainability projects
- Climate impact mitigation measures
- Environmental certifications
- Energy audits
Part of the financing may also be allocated to strengthening the company’s capital base and covering professional fees related to the application process and project reporting.
Financing Amounts and Non-Repayable Grant
The maximum financing available depends on the size of the company:
- Up to €500,000 for microenterprises
- Up to €2.5 million for SMEs and innovative start-ups
- Up to €5 million for other companies
Subject to the conditions established by the applicable regulations, companies may also qualify for a non-repayable grant of up to 30%. Eligibility applies in specific cases, including energy-intensive businesses, energy efficiency projects, and companies meeting defined sustainability or internationalization requirements.
Application Process, Duration, and Disbursement
Applications must be submitted through the SIMEST Portal, completed in full, and digitally signed by the company’s legal representative.
The subsidized loan has a standard duration of six years, including a two-year grace period, and is granted at a fixed subsidized interest rate.
Funds are generally disbursed in multiple installments, with the possibility of an initial advance of up to 25% of the approved financing, which may be increased in specific cases предусмотрed under the measure.
Eligible expenses must be incurred within 24 months of signing the financing agreement. Extensions may be granted where permitted under the applicable rules.
PRAXI’s Support
PRAXI supports companies throughout the entire application process, including:
- Preliminary assessment of eligibility requirements
- Technical review of the investment plan
- Classification of eligible expenses
- Management of the documentation and administrative procedures related to the application
- Support with project reporting and administration of the funding
Complete the form below to request a preliminary assessment of your project and explore the opportunities available under the SIMEST Digital or Ecological Transition measure.
