by InTrieste
In a move poised to reshape the tourism landscape across the region, Friuli Venezia Giulia is set to launch an expanded version of its successful hotel development grant program. The initiative, originally aimed at boosting tourism infrastructure in the region’s mountainous areas, will soon extend its reach to include the entire territory.
“The pilot program, which offered grants for hotel development in our mountain hubs, has produced very encouraging results,” said Sergio Emidio Bini, Regional Councillor for Tourism and Economic Development, during a session of the Regional Council on Wednesday. “We’re now preparing to publish a new call for applications in the second half of 2025. We’ve already allocated €5 million in funding—and we’re ready to provide more if needed.”
The announcement follows a legislative amendment introduced in the latest budget adjustment law, which broadened the geographical scope of the program. “The updated regulation allows us to adapt our strategy in real time, expanding the eligible areas and giving the regional government the flexibility to target zones based on need and potential,” Bini explained.
When asked about the selection criteria for future funding areas, Bini emphasized a multi-pronged approach. “We’ll consider tourism potential, environmental sustainability of the investments, economic and social impact—particularly the creation of local jobs and opportunities for regional artisans and businesses—as well as the existing hospitality infrastructure,” he said.
Despite the program’s new regional scope, Bini stressed that mountain areas would remain a core focus of the initiative.
He concluded by highlighting the strong response the pilot phase received from local stakeholders. “These investments aren’t just about tourism—they’re about revitalizing our communities and creating a sustainable, year-round economy in areas that have long been overlooked.”
The forthcoming call is expected to galvanize interest from developers, entrepreneurs, and municipalities eager to transform Friuli Venezia Giulia’s diverse landscape into a more accessible and appealing destination for travelers from Italy and beyond.
