Investing in Tourism: A Comprehensive Guide to the Mini PIA Tourism Program in Puglia

The Puglia region in Italy has launched an exciting initiative called Mini PIA Tourism to support and enhance the tourism sector. This program aims to modernize and expand tourist accommodations while promoting sustainable and innovative tourism practices. Here are the key highlights of the program, based on the official document.

Program Objectives

The Mini PIA Tourism program is designed to:

• Improve the quality standards of tourism offerings

• Expand and enhance services with an eco-friendly approach

• Promote sustainable and harmonious tourism

• Digitalize tourism businesses to increase competitiveness

• Support the development of Tourism 4.0

• Provide training for tourism operators

• Encourage partnerships and networking among tourism businesses

Eligible Projects

The program will fund projects that focus on:

1. Expanding, modernizing, and renovating buildings for tourism activities

2. Developing products and services that complement cultural and natural attractions

3. Promoting regional tourism products

4. Creating innovative accommodation opportunities

Key Features

• Open to both large companies and SMEs

• Supports investments in digital technologies, energy efficiency, and circular economy

• Requires beneficiaries to register on national and regional tourism portals

• Offers various types of aid under EU regulations, including regional investment aid, innovation aid for SMEs, and training aid

Funding and Implementation

• The program is co-financed by the European Union through the ERDF and ESF+ funds

• It's part of the Puglia Regional Program 2021-2027

• The selection process follows a rolling evaluation procedure

Project Phases

1. Identification of the Eligible Property (Month 1)

• Search and selection of a property that meets the eligibility criteria of the Mini PIA Tourism program.

2. Preparation of the Project/Business Plan (Months 1-2)

• Drafting a detailed project and business plan, including renovation and improvement plans.

3. Preliminary Bank Approval and Deposit of 25-30% by the Applicant (Month 2)

• Presenting the project to the bank for preliminary credit approval.

• The applicant deposits their share of the financing into the designated account.

4. Deposit of Financing into the Applicant's Account (Month 2)

• The bank deposits the entire amount of the Mini PIA plus the loan into the applicant's account.

5. Signing of the Preliminary Agreement (Month 2)

• Signing the preliminary agreement with the property seller.

6. Submission of the Application to the Region (Month 2)

• Submitting the financing application to the Puglia Region.

7. Review of the Application by the Region (Months 3-5)

• Evaluation of the application by the competent authorities.

8. Formal Approval from the Region (Month 6)

• Notification of the financing approval and specific conditions.

9. Obtaining Necessary Permits (To Be Determined)

• Acquiring all necessary construction and renovation permits.

10. Start of Construction/Renovation Work (To Be Determined)

• Commencement and completion of property improvement works.

11. Implementation of Digital Solutions (To Be Determined)

• Installation of digital technologies to enhance the property's efficiency and appeal.

12. Staff Training (To Be Determined)

• Training programs for staff to ensure high-quality service.

13. Final Inspection (To Be Determined)

• Final inspection of the property to ensure all works are completed to the required standards.

14. Project Completion (Within 24 Months)

• Project closure and commencement of commercial operations.

Conclusion

This guide provides an overview of the key phases and timelines for a Mini PIA Tourism project. Careful planning and adherence to deadlines are essential to ensure the success of the project and to secure the intended financial support.For more detailed information on how to apply and specific eligibility criteria, interested parties should consult the official program documentation.