Italy launches €151M fund for cultural and creative enterprises in the South

The Italian Ministry of Culture has published the public notice 'Cultura Cresce', allocating €151.7 million from the Fondo Imprese Culturali e Creative 2021-2027 to support micro, small, and medium-sized cultural and creative enterprises in Southern Italy. The fund targets Basilicata, Calabria, Campania, Molise, Puglia, Sardinia, and Sicily. Eligible beneficiaries include enterprises operating in the cultural and creative supply chain for at least five years, younger firms (under five years), individuals starting new activities, social enterprises, third-sector entities, associations, foundations, and aggregations of three to five enterprises. Projects must not exceed €2.5 million (€500,000 for social enterprises) and cover sectors such as music, audiovisual, performing arts, visual arts, architecture, design, publishing, fashion, artistic craftsmanship, and cultural heritage. Aid is provided as zero-interest loans and grants covering up to 80% of eligible costs, plus technical-managerial tutoring. Applications open online from December 10, 2025, via Invitalia, on a first-come, first-served basis until funds are exhausted. Minister Alessandro Giuli emphasized the role of culture in developing marginal areas, while Director General Angelo Piero Cappello highlighted the initiative's impact on innovation and cohesion.