Italy Establishes Legal Framework for Cultural and Creative Enterprises

Italy has officially defined the legal status of Cultural and Creative Enterprises (ICC) through Decree 402 of October 28, 2024, issued by the Ministry of Culture (MIC). This decree implements Article 25 of Law 206 of December 27, 2023, which created the ICC qualification. Any entity, regardless of legal form, with stable and continuous operations in Italy, exclusively or predominantly engaged in ideation, creation, production, development, dissemination, promotion, conservation, research, enhancement, or management of cultural goods, activities, or products, or in strictly related support activities, can qualify. The decree mandates that Chambers of Commerce establish a special section of the business register within sixty days, where eligible entities can register. A fund of €3 million has been allocated for capital contributions to ICCs, and a National Strategic Plan for the promotion and development of ICCs is planned. The framework aims to support public-private collaboration and address Italy's fragmented cultural sector, which includes coexisting for-profit and non-profit organizations, unused cultural heritage, and the need to integrate the cultural supply chain with tourism.