The 2025-2026 period marks a time of profound transformation for the Italian startup and innovative SME ecosystem, combining new opportunities with regulatory uncertainty.
The Scaleup Act: new requirements from 2025
The Scaleup Act, in force since January 2025, replaced the Decreto Crescita 2.0 of 2012, introducing more stringent criteria for obtaining and maintaining innovative-startup status. The objective is to strengthen the quality, scalability and impact of entrepreneurial innovation.
Enhanced tax incentives (Law 162/2024)
Law 162/2024 has enhanced incentives for investors: the 50% IRPEF deduction under the de minimis regime can now be converted into a tax credit that may be used without time limits. In addition, capital gains from the sale of holdings in innovative startups held for at least three years are exempt.
The problem: suspension of incentives from 2026
From 1 January 2026, the 30% deduction and deduction for investments in innovative startups has expired and has not yet been renewed. The regulatory vacuum is producing immediate effects: pipeline deals are being frozen and investors may be redirecting their attention to jurisdictions with more stable rules.
The European proposal: Eu Inc
At European level, the Commission has proposed the Eu Inc, an optional harmonised corporate regime under the "28th regime", which would allow businesses to operate across multiple Member States with a single corporate structure. According to Confindustria, it represents a "concrete opportunity for those who want to innovate".
Sources: Il Sole 24 Ore - Econopoly, ANSA