by InTrieste
The regional government of Friuli Venezia Giulia has unveiled a new funding program aimed at helping micro-enterprises, small businesses and self-employed professionals integrate artificial intelligence technologies into their operations.
Announced Monday in Udine by Regional Councilor for Productive Activities and Tourism Sergio Emidio Bini, the initiative provides an initial budget of €1 million for 2026 and is among the first regional programs in Italy specifically designed to support the adoption of artificial intelligence by smaller businesses.
The measure, established under Regional Law 19/2025, reflects growing interest among policymakers in ensuring that smaller firms can access technologies that have increasingly become part of everyday business operations.
The funding will be divided between €700,000 for investment-related expenses and €300,000 for operational costs. Eligible applicants may receive grants covering up to 75 percent of approved expenditures, with a maximum contribution of €10,000 per beneficiary.
Applications will be accepted from June 10 through July 31, 2026, via the region’s online application platform. Funding will be awarded on a first-come, first-served basis, subject to evaluation.
Eligible expenses include the purchase of artificial intelligence software and platforms, licensing fees, intelligent digital devices, customization and integration of AI systems with existing business infrastructure, as well as maintenance, technical support, consulting services and employee training provided by accredited institutions.
Regional officials said the program is intended to address the particular challenges faced by smaller companies, which make up the vast majority of the local economy. According to regional data cited during the presentation, micro and small enterprises account for approximately 96 percent of Friuli Venezia Giulia’s productive sector.
While larger companies have generally begun incorporating artificial intelligence into their operations, many smaller businesses continue to face barriers including costs, uncertainty and a lack of technical expertise.
The initiative places a strong emphasis on training alongside technology adoption, reflecting concerns shared by governments and businesses across Europe about preparing workers and entrepreneurs for the rapid expansion of AI tools.
Regional authorities said they will monitor demand for the program and could consider increasing funding in future rounds if applications exceed available resources.
The launch comes as regional and national governments across Italy explore ways to encourage digital transformation and strengthen the competitiveness of small and medium-sized enterprises in an economy increasingly shaped by artificial intelligence and automation.
