All you need to know about the 2025 innovative startups news
With the final approval of the DDL Concorrenza 2023 by the Senate, the criteria and conditions for the definition and permanence of innovative start-ups in the dedicated register are changing. This article outlines the main changes introduced, with a focus on the five alternative requirements for extending the period of registration in the special section of the Companies Register.
Changes in the Definition of Innovative Startup
The new DDL changes the definition of innovative startup, which now must:
- Be a micro, small or medium-sized enterprise, according to European Commission Recommendation 2003/361/EC.
- Not have agency or consultancy as its main activity.
These new requirements are in addition to those already provided for in Article 25 paragraph 2 of DL 179/2012. In addition, the approved text eliminates some previously proposed conditions, such as the requirement of a minimum share capital of EUR 20,000 or the hiring of at least one employee within the second year.
Reduction of the Standard Registration Period
The maximum period for remaining in the special section of the Commercial Register has been reduced from five to three years. However, the DDL provides for the possibility of extending the registration for a further 2 years if the startup meets at least one of the following requirements:
- Increased Research and Development Expenditure
Research and development expenditure must represent at least 25 per cent of the total. - Experimentation Contract with a Public Administration
The startup must have entered into at least one experimentation contract with a PA. - Significant Increase in Revenues or Employment
An increase of more than 50% in revenues from operations or employment between the second and third year of operation. - Capital Strengthening
Creation of a capital reserve of more than EUR 50,000 through a convertible loan, a capital increase at a premium or other certified investment instruments. - Obtaining a Patent
The start-up must have at least one registered patent.
Further Extensions
At the end of five years (including the two-year extension period), the registration can be extended for further two-year periods, up to a maximum of four years in total, if even more stringent requirements are met, such as:
- Capital increase of more than EUR 1 million by a collective investment undertaking.
- Increase in annual revenues from ordinary operations of more than 100 per cent.
Transitional Regulation fo Scale-up
For start-ups already registered in the special section of the Companies Register, the DDL introduces a transitional regulation. They will be able to maintain their registration beyond the third year if they meet at least one of the requirements within:
- 12 months from the expiry of the third year for those registered for more than 18 months.
- 6 months after the end of the third year for those registered for less than 18 months.
Impact on Certified Incubators
A further new element concerns certified incubators, which must now include acceleration and support activities for innovative start-ups. These will be registered in a separate special section in the business registry.
Final Considerations
The new provisions aim to incentivise the consolidation of innovative start-ups, while at the same time favouring the selection of realities with greater potential for growth and economic sustainability.
How Taxdry Can Help You
Taxdry is at your side to:
- Verify your startup’s compliance with the new requirements.
- Assist you in managing the fulfilments necessary to maintain registration in the special register.
- Offer you strategic advice to make the most of the opportunities introduced by the DDL Concorrenza 2023.
Contact us today for a personalised consultation!
