About
SIMEST is Italy’s public agency for supporting the internationalisation of Italian businesses. Part of the CDP Group and supervised by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, it provides financial tools to help SMEs and startups expand into foreign markets.
SIMEST offers:
- Subsidised loans for international growth, including:
- entry into new markets (e.g. opening foreign offices, trade fairs, e-commerce)
- digital and ecological transition for export-oriented companies
- international certifications and consultancy
- Non-repayable grants covering part of the loan for:
- innovative startups and SMEs
- women- and youth-led businesses
- companies based in Southern Italy
- Equity investments in Italian companies expanding abroad, supporting capital strength during international ventures
- These tools are designed to strengthen the global competitiveness of Italian enterprises and are accessible through SIMEST’s online portal.
SIMEST (part of CDP)
Public agency supporting the internationalisation of Italian businesses.