Italian regions receive innovation boost
The European Commission has awarded a total of 610.28 million euro to seven Italian regions and provinces, all of which have been classified as objective 2 areas, or declining industrial areas. The money will go towards promoting innovation in the regions, as well as accelerating growth and improving the basic conditions for each region or province's strong points. The region of Lombardy will receive the highest figure at 200.4 million euro. Three priorities have been set for the funds in this region: - strengthening enterprises and their capacity for innovation; - improving the competitiveness of the region through structural measures - preserving and developing the natural heritage and sustainable socio-economic development of local communities.