Funds Transferred: Tourism Ministry to Commission
The Italian Ministry of Tourism has taken a proactive approach in distributing aid for the damages caused by the June 2024 floods that affected key tourist areas such as Cervinia, Cogne, and various communities in Piedmont. This initiative is part of a broader governmental response to support recovery in flood-impacted regions, focusing on tourism-related businesses and infrastructure.
**Scope of Aid**
The aid targets businesses and operators in the tourism sector who suffered damage or losses due to the floods. It includes financial grants and support for the restoration of facilities, equipment replacement, and operational continuity. Emphasis is placed on safeguarding employment and preserving the tourism attractiveness of the affected areas.
**Implementation Mechanism**
Aid is distributed via regional offices in collaboration with the Ministry, ensuring local needs and damage assessments are incorporated. Application windows are opened for affected parties to submit claims with relevant documentation (damage reports, proof of business activity, financial records). Priority is typically given to small and medium tourism enterprises, which are most vulnerable.
**Examples of Support Measures**
Grants covering repair and reconstruction costs, subsidies for replacement of lost or damaged equipment, contributions to cover operating expenses during closure or reduced activity, and promotional funding to help revive tourism flows post-disaster are some examples of support measures.
**Guidelines for Aid Eligibility**
Businesses and operators with registered tourism activity located in the flood-affected zones (Cervinia, Cogne, Piedmont municipalities defined by official flood declarations) are eligible. Businesses must have been operational prior to June 2024 and demonstrably affected by the floods. Applicants must provide valid documentation of damage (e.g., official damage assessment reports, insurance claims, photographs). Proof of business registration and tax compliance is required.
**Restrictions**
Aid is generally not available for businesses that started post-flood or for speculative rebuilding. Priority may be given to enterprises with significant employment or local economic impact. Applicants must commit to using funds solely for recovery-related expenses.
**Prevention of Double Funding**
To avoid duplication of funding, the Ministry of Tourism has implemented rigorous checks. These include cross-verification with other aid programs, declaration requirements, transparent monitoring, and post-disbursement audits.
At the moment, 9 companies are in the phase of administrative assistance. Of the 58 beneficiaries, 36 have received the requested funding, totaling 3 million 480 thousand euros. A second decree is prepared for the liquidation of 10 companies totaling 3 million 731 thousand euros, including Luciana Perret, Fratelli Broccard, Ma.En. snc, Gv17 srl, Sitac sas, Valter Polo Grava, Amis des Salasses, Campeggio Gran Paradiso, Marmore srl, and Hbf snc di Stefano Herren.
For more specific application forms, deadlines, or regional contact details, these are generally published on the official Ministry of Tourism website and regional government portals following flood events. If you need assistance finding these resources, feel free to ask!
- In light of the aid distribution for tourism-related businesses affected by the June 2024 floods, the Italian Ministry of Finance is providing financial support to help cover repair and reconstruction costs, equipment replacement, and operational expenses.
- As part of the broader approach to help affected businesses recover, the Ministry of Business Development has been supporting the tourism sector by offering grants and other financial assistance to preserve jobs and restore the attractiveness of the flood-impacted areas.
