The strategic framework and policy delivery system in Italy

This chapter examines the strategic framework for the formulation of SME and entrepreneurship policy in Italy, including the Statute of Enterprises, the national SME Envoy and the Annual SME Law. It then turns to the roles and responsibilities of different public sector organisations and initiatives in delivering policy, including questions of policy coherence and accessibility to SMEs and entrepreneurs. The chapter highlights the importance of implementing the Annual SME Law and its proposed policy actions in practice, extending the reach of business support services to nascent entrepreneurs and entrepreneurs from under-represented and disadvantaged groups, and strengthening the policy coordination role of the SME Envoy.