INTRODUCTION
The call for applications, promoted by the Padua Chamber of Commerce, aims to support the digitalization and ecological transition of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). The initiative is designed to encourage the adoption of digital technologies and the integration of sustainable environmental practices. The total budget available for this call is €500,000.00.
ELIGIBLE APPLICANTS
The call is open to MSMEs operating in all economic sectors, with a registered office or local unit located in the Province of Padua. Companies involved in the primary production of fishery, aquaculture, and agricultural products are excluded, while those engaged in the processing and marketing of such products are eligible. Companies that have already received funding under the 2024 (24DT) call are not eligible to apply.
ELIGIBLE PROJECTS
The call provides funding under two main measures:
Measure A – Artificial Intelligence and Sustainable Digitalization:
- Projects for the analysis and integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into business processes.
- Technological solutions aimed at improving environmental sustainability through digital tools.
Measure B – Digitalization and Ecological Transition:
- Technologies for digital transition, including AI, cloud computing, cybersecurity, blockchain, 3D printing, e-commerce, and enterprise management systems.
- Technologies for ecological transition, including energy audits, supply chain optimization, energy efficiency improvements, renewable energy communities, Life Cycle Assessment (LCA), and ISO certifications for energy management.
Each company may submit only one application, selecting either Measure A or Measure B.
ELIGIBLE EXPENSES
Eligible expenses are categorized by measure as follows:
Measure A:
- Consulting services for the analysis, design, and implementation of AI and sustainable digitalization solutions.
- Purchase of instrumental goods and services for green digitalization.
- Specialized training (minimum 4 hours) on the use of AI.
Measure B:
- Consulting and training for the adoption of digital and ecological technologies.
- Purchase of instrumental goods and services, software, and platforms.
- Licenses, subscriptions, and periodic fees related to digital technologies and online training.
- Feasibility studies and environmental sustainability analyses.
Expenses not eligible for funding include general services (e.g., administrative, tax, or legal consulting), basic hardware (e.g., PCs, smartphones, switchboards), projects such as remote working or showcase websites. Furthermore, expenses for goods and services provided by shareholders, administrators, or their relatives are excluded.
GRANT AMOUNT
The non-repayable grant covers 50% of eligible expenses, with the following minimum and maximum amounts for each measure:
- Measure A: from €5,000 to €10,000 (minimum investment of €10,000).
- Measure B: from €1,500 to €5,000 (minimum investment of €3,000).
Additional bonuses include:
- +€100 for companies with a legality rating.
- +€200 for companies with a gender equality certification.
APPLICATION TIMELINE AND SUBMISSION PROCEDURE
Applications must be submitted electronically through the Restar platform, using the digital signature of the company’s legal representative. The application window is open from 11:00 AM on April 2, 2025, until 7:00 PM on April 3, 2025. Applications will be evaluated on a first-come, first-served basis, in compliance with the regulations, until the available funds are exhausted.
FOR INFORMATION
Phone: +39 0429 603233
Email: info@euteknos.it
