by EH
In a bold move to bolster its burgeoning Life Sciences sector, the Autonomous Region of Friuli Venezia Giulia has announced a €5 million initiative aimed at modernizing testing and experimentation infrastructures across the region. The announcement was made on Thursday at the Urban Center in Trieste, marking a significant step in the region’s efforts to attract innovative enterprises and elevate its status as a leader in life sciences research and development.
Alessia Rosolen, the Regional Councillor for Labor, Training, Education, Research, University and Family, emphasized the strategic importance of this investment. “The Life Sciences sector is a cornerstone of our growth strategy,” Rosolen stated, highlighting the region’s commitment to integrating cutting-edge research with practical applications in health maintenance, biomedical innovation, and personalized medicine.
The initiative, which offers non-repayable grants, aims to stimulate the creation of new infrastructures or the enhancement of existing ones. These upgrades are intended to foster the development of new or improved products, processes, and services, ultimately advancing industrial research and experimental development.
A Focus on Innovation and Integration
The call for proposals is part of a broader regional policy to attract and support innovative startups and companies. The region seeks to integrate these new ventures with its renowned universities and research centers, creating a dynamic ecosystem that leverages local expertise and resources.
Luciana Grimani, Head of Research, Development, and Innovation at the Central Directorate of Labor, Training, Education, and Family, underscored the initiative’s alignment with the S4 development trajectories. “Our focus is on systems and solutions for health maintenance, biomedical innovation, support for the elderly and vulnerable, and the development of new drugs and biopharmaceuticals,” Grimani explained.
The initiative encourages a wide range of enterprises to apply, from micro and small businesses to large corporations. Companies can apply individually or as part of a Temporary Business Association (ATI). To qualify, applicants must have a legal or operational base in the region or commit to establishing one before the project begins.
Application Process and Timelines
Applications are being accepted exclusively online via certified email from July 15 at 10:00 AM until September 20 at 12:00 PM. The comprehensive submission process includes forwarding the application to multiple regional authorities for review.
The allocated budget for this initiative is substantial, reflecting the region’s commitment to its ambitious goals. Projects must have eligible costs of at least €500,000 and can last between 6 and 24 months. The maximum grant per project is €2.5 million.
Eligible expenses cover a broad spectrum, from purchasing machinery and IT tools to design, installation, and certification costs. Notably, VAT is considered an eligible expense only if it constitutes a final cost for the beneficiary. The grants cannot be combined with other aid measures, ensuring focused and effective use of the funds.
Looking Ahead
Franco Scolari, General Director of the Alto Adriatico Technology Park, expressed optimism about the initiative’s potential impact. “This is a significant opportunity for our region to lead in life sciences innovation,” Scolari said, envisioning a future where Friuli Venezia Giulia becomes a hub for cutting-edge medical research and development.
As the region opens its doors to this transformative funding, the local and international scientific community will be watching closely. The success of this initiative could serve as a model for other regions aiming to integrate academic excellence with industrial innovation, ultimately fostering a healthier, more advanced society.
For more information, prospective applicants can visit the dedicated page on the Autonomous Region of Friuli Venezia Giulia’s website.
