EC facilitates venture capital for Italian agricultural SMEs

According to EVCA sources, the European Commission has authorised the first state aid to promote venture capital funds for small- and medium-sized businesses operating exclusively in the agricultural sector. Italy is now able to provide an annual amount of €5m until 2005 to promote investments in agricultural SMEs in their start-up or early stage phases. The fund will take minority shareholdings and participatory loans, on the condition that private investors also participate. The new fund may also become a partner in other venture funds investing in SMEs engaged in agricultural activities. Small- to medium-sized agricultural businesses face serious obstacles in accessing venture capital, due to the absence of adequate information, reluctance on the part of banks and investors, and the high cost of due diligence.

• Tweet  
• Facebook  
• LinkedIn  
• Google plus  
• Send to  

• Topics
• Southern Europe