The Emilia-Romagna Region launches a new call for proposals to support investments and research and development projects in the strategic technologies sector, with a total budget of 30 million euros. The call refers to the Strategic Technologies European Platform (STEP) and is part of the Regional ERDF European Regional Development Fund 2021-2027 Program of Emilia-Romagna.
Eligible Projects
The call aims to support companies that invest in:
- digital and deep tech technologies
- clean and efficient technologies
- biotechnologies
Investment projects for the development and manufacturing of "critical technologies" are eligible for the Call, to which experimental research and development activities can be connected only if directly related to the investment and with a high TRL (Technology Readiness Level). The call defines critical technologies based on the innovation level of the technology and the contribution it makes to reduce or prevent the European Union's strategic dependencies. For projects that include an experimental research and development component, this part of the project cannot exceed 30% of the total eligible project cost. An exception is made for projects pertaining to type 1 (digital and deep tech technologies), which can consist solely of research and development activities.
The minimum amount of the total eligible investment cost must be:
- €1,000,000 for projects consisting of investment in “development and manufacturing” alone, or those that also integrate experimental research and development.
- €500,000 only in the case of projects relating to "digital technologies and Deep Tech technology innovation" and which exclusively include a research and development project.
Projects must fall within at least one of the following S3 priority (Smart Specialisation Strategy): Digitalisation, artificial intelligence, big data; Manufacturing 4.0; Connectivity of terrestrial and space systems; Sustainable and innovative mobility and motorization; Clean, safe and accessible energy; Circular Economy; Health; Climate and natural resources; Blue Growth; Aerospace economy; Innovation in the design, construction and management of critical infrastructures.
Beneficiaries
Both SMEs and large enterprises can access the call, whether they already have an operational unit in Emilia-Romagna or for those who undertake to activate one according to the terms of the call.
Intensity and Resources
The funding intensity may vary depending on the type of company (large, medium, or small), the location in an assisted or non-assisted area. Higher intensities are provided for clean and efficient technologies. Consult the call for further details.
Maximum amount of the contribution:
- 1,500,000.00 euros for investments
- 500,000 euros for Research and Development
The resources available to fund eligible projects under this call amount to a total of €30 million, of which:
- 25 million euros are intended to fund investment projects (development and manufacturing of "STEP critical technologies")
- 5 million euros are intended to fund research, innovation, and experimental development projects for "STEP technologies"
Deadline
Applications for contributions must be submitted to the Region starting from 1 p.m. on Tuesday 20 May and by 1 p.m. on Thursday 19 June 2025.
For more information
