Simest: the anti-hardship measure for SMEs kicks off: 800 million ready. How it works
From 25 May until 31 December, companies that have suffered an increase in energy costs or a reduction in turnover will be able to apply
by Celestina Dominelli
Next 25 May will see the start of the new Simest measure 'Energy for international competitiveness', dedicated to companies that have suffered an increase in energy costs or a reduction in turnover as a result of the conflict in the Persian Gulf area, and which looks above all at SMEs in line with the growing attention that the Cdp group company, headed by Regina Corradini d'Arienzo, is turning to this segment of companies.
The measure, as Simest's CEO herself also explained in an interview with Il Sole 24 Ore in recent days, is aimed at all exporting companies, but also at those that do not export but belong to an export chain and are subject to a rise in energy costs or a drop in revenues, thus not only those directly impacted by the new front in the Middle East.
The available ceiling
But how does the measure work and what does it provide? The plafond available to Simest, which will field the assistance under the aegis of the government and the direction of the Farnesina, is 800 million euro that will allow those who submit an application for access to the resources to benefit from subsidised financing with a non-repayable contribution of up to 30% for SMEs, while it will be 20% for all other companies.
Requirements for access
In order to be eligible for financing, it will be necessary to demonstrate an increase in energy costs or a reduction in turnover of at least 10% in the first quarter/quarter of this year compared to the equivalent period in 2025. Each company will be able to access this instrument to support capital strengthening operations (up to 90% of the financing for this type of intervention) or shareholder financing, the amount of which will be up to EUR 1.5 million. The advance can be up to 50% and the financing will last eight years and not six as in other initiatives.
The deadline for applications
Applications, as mentioned, can be submitted from 23 May until 31 December: they can be submitted electronically by connecting to Simest's portal where there is also a section dedicated to new initiatives (www.simest.it).
