by Maximiliano Crocamo
Interview: Pierpaolo Roberti, FVG councilor for local autonomies, public administration, security, and immigration
The Friuli Venezia Giulia regional government has announced a new funding initiative aimed at associations linked to veterans, law enforcement, forestry, fire services, and local police. The program seeks to support projects that preserve historical memory and promote civic values, including legality and community engagement.
“Until now, funding for these organizations was provided sporadically. With this new framework law, the region can provide structured support for the numerous activities these groups carry out, while expanding the range of eligible beneficiaries,” said Regional Councillor for Security Pierpaolo Roberti. “It is a concrete way to recognize and support their important role, maintain the historical memory of the territory, and promote fundamental values like legality, civic responsibility, and loyalty to institutions.”
Roberti emphasized that beyond large public events, these associations play an ongoing role in the community, including participation in ceremonies and the maintenance of monuments. Specific funding has been allocated for these activities.
The program, which offers a total of €972,000 for 2025, is divided into €350,000 for operating expenses and €622,000 for investments. Eligible activities include organizing gatherings, ceremonies, exhibitions, and conferences focused on the history of Friuli Venezia Giulia and the contributions of the armed forces and law enforcement. The funding also covers the restoration of historical artifacts and monuments, the creation of memorial maps of the territory, and the promotion of archival material. Special attention is given to educational projects that engage younger generations in schools, strengthening the connection between the community and institutions.
Associations eligible for the funding must have been established for at least one year, operate on a nonprofit basis, and conduct activities consistent with their statutes. Organizations that have promoted denial of historical events such as the Holocaust, the Foibe massacres, or the Istrian-Dalmatian exodus are excluded. Each association may submit up to two applications—one for operating expenses and one for investments. Grants cover up to 100% of eligible costs, ranging from €3,000 to €10,000 for operating expenses (up to €15,000 for lead associations) and €10,000 to €70,000 for investments (up to €85,000 for lead associations).
Applications, including all required documentation, must be submitted exclusively via certified email to autonomielocali@certregione.fvg.it by Nov. 15, 2025. Applications will be evaluated in chronological order of receipt, and expense reporting must be completed by June 30, 2026.
Detailed information and application forms are available on the regional government’s website: ibit.ly/PYW_O.
