TOWARDS NEW MARKETS - Action 1.3.1 PR ERDF Lombardy 2021-2027
Summary
The 'Towards New Markets' measure of the ERDF-FESR Lombardy 2021-2027 supports SMEs in internationalization. Companies can benefit from funding up to €600,000 for projects to enter foreign markets. Eligible expenses include consulting, training, and operational activities.
The measure “Toward New Markets.” - Action 1.3.1 of PR ERDF Lombardy 2021-2027 - supports enterprises that develop and implement an Action Plan for foreign market entry, through:
Market analysis and specific studies
Definition of resources, timelines, and preparatory activities
Minimizing risks and maximizing global opportunities
Subjects Beneficiaries
The following are eligible to apply MPMI Which:
Are incorporated, registered and active in the Commercial Register, with at least two approved financial statements or tax returns as of the date of submission.
Have operational headquarters in Lombardy as of the grant date.
Have not made, in the previous calendar year, exports or intra-Community supplies of more than 40 % of total turnover
Eligible Interventions
The project must include a Action plan for internationalization, drafted on the basis of market research and supported by experts, with:
Detailed description of actions and resources needed
Timelines and operational steps for entering new markets
Marketing, communication and product adjustment activities
Any temporary showrooms or exhibition spaces (physical or virtual)
Implementation of remote customer service systems
The project budget must be between € 30.000 e € 600.000 And conclude within 18 months of the grant.
Eligible Expenses
Counseling for the preparation of the Plan (max 20 % of the expenses in item 2)
Training Of staff dedicated to the project (max 10 % of the expenses in items 1 and 2)
Employees Involved, calculated flatly at 20 % of items 1-3
Indirect costs, lump sums at 7 % of items 1-3
All activities must comply with the DNSH principle and the directions of the SEA Report.
Type of contribution:
The total budget for the call is €18.978.747,97.
Minimum amount Of the investment: €30,000.00.
Maximum amount eligible: €600,000.00.
Coverage up to 85% Of eligible expenses, divided into:
20% as a grant.
65% as subsidized financing at the fixed rate of 1.5%.
The remaining 15% of the investment is borne by the enterprise.
Term of funding: between 3 and 6 years old, with a maximum grace period of 24 months.
Method of application:
Useful period: 00:00 a.m. June 3 to 11:59 p.m. September 9, 2025
Procedures: telematic submission via dedicated platform PR ERDF Lombardy
Required attachments: Action plan, quotations and documentation in accordance with the indented expenses.
Please feel free to contact us for more information and support.
Frequently Asked Questions
The 'Towards New Markets' call aims to support SMEs in creating an action plan for entering foreign markets. This measure is crucial for conducting market analysis and defining preparatory activities. Furthermore, it seeks to minimize risks and maximize global opportunities that businesses can leverage. It's a unique opportunity for Italian companies wishing to expand their international presence. Implementing an internationalization plan allows businesses to develop a solid and sustainable strategy.
Micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) that are active and registered in the Business Register, with at least two approved financial statements, are eligible to apply. Additionally, they must have an operational headquarters in Lombardy at the time the subsidy is granted. Another condition is that they must not have generated exports or intra-Community sales exceeding 40% of total revenue in the previous calendar year. This call for proposals is therefore aimed at small and medium-sized enterprises seeking to develop internationalization strategies without risking overextending their resources. It is an important opportunity for companies currently in the expansion phase.
Eligible expenses include consulting services for drafting the Action Plan, operational activities such as marketing and showrooms, and training for project staff. Consulting costs are limited to 20% of total expenses, and training costs are limited to 10%. In addition, employee salaries and indirect costs are also reimbursable up to certain limits. This cost structure makes the call for proposals accessible and advantageous for companies seeking to invest in internationalization. It is essential for companies to carefully plan their budget to maximize the funding received.
The application for the tender can be submitted online through a dedicated PR FESR Lombardia platform, open from 00:00 on June 3rd until 23:59 on September 9th, 2025. Mandatory attachments include the Action Plan, quotes, and documentation compliant with the expected expenses. It is essential to strictly follow the instructions to avoid errors in the submission. This online process has been designed to facilitate access to the tender, making it more efficient for companies. Ensuring that all documentation is in order is crucial to increase the chances of obtaining funding.
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