Support for the Internationalization Programs of SMEs
PROJECT “PIF – INTEGRATED SUPPLY CHAIN PROJECTS. YEARS 2023-2024”
PR FESR Veneto Region 2021-2027
Action 1.3.6
INTRODUCTION
The call was approved by the Veneto Regional Council with Resolution no. 1641 on December 22, 2023. The main objective is to support the internationalization programs of SMEs in Veneto through the project “PIF – Integrated Supply Chain Projects. Years 2023-2024.” The project is funded with a total budget of €3,000,000, divided into two phases: €1,757,227 for PHASE I and €1,242,773 for PHASE II.
OBJECTIVES
The “PIF Project 2023-2024” aims to increase the export orientation of micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Veneto and enhance their ability to engage with an increasingly international customer base. This is intended to effectively frame their global competitiveness, identify the most suitable context for growth, and plan and implement a sound strategy to expand their commercial horizons.
Specifically, the “PIF Project 2023-2024” seeks to consolidate the competitive presence and promote the international projection of SMEs by facilitating their organized penetration of foreign markets, while simultaneously strengthening each company’s ability to maintain its market presence. By encouraging collaboration between companies of varying sizes and degrees of internationalization, the project offers especially less internationalized companies, which require knowledge and logistical support, the opportunity to access and capture greater market share.
BENEFICIARIES
The beneficiaries are SMEs, including freelancers, both individually and in aggregated forms. The project focuses on the supply chains of the Home System and Fashion System, selected for their internationalization potential and added value to the regional economy.
ELIGIBLE PROJECTS
Eligible projects must support the internationalization activities of Veneto’s SMEs. PHASE I includes:
- Ideation and detailed design of the “Integrated Supply Chain Projects” for the Home System and Fashion System supply chains (macroeconomic framework analysis, target company definition, communication actions definition).
- Implementation of the approved “Activity Plan” for each “Integrated Supply Chain Project,” which includes:
- Individual assessment of companies’ international maturity level.
- Online training seminars.
- Training modules.
- Joint participation in international fairs/events and overseas business missions.
- Individual definition of an internationalization strategy.
Eligible projects include those aimed at:
- Participation in international fairs.
- Consulting services for internationalization.
- Investments in digital technologies.
- Adaptation of products or services for foreign markets.
ELIGIBLE EXPENSES
Eligible expenses include:
- Indirect costs, calculated at a flat rate of 15% of eligible internal personnel expenses.
- Participation costs for international fairs and events.
- Expenses for specialized consultancy.
- Investments in digital tools and technologies to improve international competitiveness.
- Costs related to product or service adaptation for foreign markets.
GRANT PROVIDED
The grant is awarded as a non-repayable contribution. PHASE I provides free services, while PHASE II supports internationalization investments made by SMEs that complete PHASE I.
TIMELINES AND APPLICATION PROCEDURE
Applications for PHASE I will be managed through a specific call published and administered by AVEPA. The selection of companies and allocation of grants for PHASE II will be determined by a separate resolution of the Regional Council, based on the outcomes of the planning carried out in PHASE I. The planned activities will last until June 30, 2025, with a possible extension of up to 90 days.
Applications must be submitted via the dedicated digital platform of the Veneto Region.
Projects will be evaluated based on their alignment with innovation, digitalization, and sustainability content. Special attention will be given to projects that improve the international competitiveness of SMEs.
Le domande devono essere presentate attraverso la piattaforma digitale dedicata della Regione Veneto.
I progetti saranno valutati in base alla coerenza con i contenuti di innovazione, digitalizzazione e sostenibilità. Particolare attenzione sarà data ai progetti che migliorano la competitività internazionale delle PMI.
