A call for proposals worth over 68.2 million euros to support the creation of new research infrastructures and the expansion of existing ones in Sicily.
The Regional Council approved in today’s session the legal basis of the measure, presented by the Councillor for Productive Activities, Edy Tamajo. These are funds from the ERDF Sicily 2021-27 operational programme.
“This allocation – the councilor comments – is a fundamental step for the strengthening of our research and innovation system. The development of new infrastructures is a crucial element to support the economic growth and competitiveness of businesses in our region. The call will be published by the end of the summer”.
The aid is intended directly for research organizations but also for companies that operate in partnership with them.
All beneficiaries must have an operational headquarters in Sicily. Companies with an Ateco code falling within the primary production of agricultural products are excluded.
The funding will be used for a series of strategic initiatives, including promoting collaboration between research institutions, universities and businesses, and supporting innovative projects that can have a significant impact on the territory..
The fundable interventions include the creation of new research and “testing and experimentation” infrastructures, with restructuring, expansion and new technological installations.
The minimum thresholds of the spending program for each project are worth five million euros, while the maximum thresholds reach 20 million.
«Thanks to this intervention – concludes Tamajo – Sicily will be able to attract new talent and resources, improve the quality of scientific and technological research and stimulate the creation of start-ups and new innovative businesses.
Our goal is to create a fertile ecosystem, capable of generating qualified job opportunities and promoting sustainable development. We continue to invest in the future of our territory, with the aim of making the Island a center of excellence in the field of research and innovation, while promoting economic growth and the well-being of citizens”.