A total of €400 million is available through the Sustainable Growth Fund to support research and development projects in the regions of Basilicata, Calabria, Campania, Molise, Puglia, Sardinia, and Sicily, with a focus on STEP-related topics. Eligible projects must involve industrial research and experimental development aimed at creating new products, processes, or services through the development of critical technologies, including digital technologies, clean technologies, and biotechnologies.

Companies of any size that have at least two approved financial statements at the time of application, as well as research centers, can benefit from these incentives. The eligible expenses cover personnel costs related to project activities, consultancy services—which include the acquisition or licensing of research results, patents, and know-how—equipment and instruments, materials, and general project expenses.

The financial incentives consist of a soft loan covering 50% of eligible costs and a non-repayable grant covering 35% for small businesses, 30% for medium-sized companies, and 25% for large companies.

The official opening dates of the call will be announced soon.

More info here.