Intesa Sanpaolo joined forces with Vertis SGR In a new strategic alliance designed to support the expansion and development of forward-thinking startups and small and medium-sized businesses in Southern Italy. The partnership aims to strengthen the region’s emerging innovation environment by creating stronger pathways for growth in a region thought to have significant untapped potential.
Vertis SGR stands out as the only asset management company headquartered in Southern Italy specializing in: private equity and venture capital operations.
This local expertise makes it a suitable collaborator for Intesa Sanpaolo, where the Banca dei Territori Division and the dedicated Innovation Center will now offer comprehensive support.
The two organizations will offer tailored guidance, facilitate national and global networking opportunities, and implement targeted programs to accelerate innovation.
These efforts will also help bridge gaps between businesses, academic institutions, research organizations, and potential investors.
Building on its track record, Intesa Sanpaolo’s Banca dei Territori Division has injected €70 million into innovative companies in the South in 2025.
bank it is now expanding this commitment through a full suite of financial and non-financial tools.
These include flexible financing options, special accelerator programs such as Up2Stars and Terra Next, and ongoing studies. ESGLaboratories and innovation centers located in Naples and Bari.
Meanwhile, the Intesa Sanpaolo Innovation Center will spearhead open innovation projects that foster deeper collaboration between established companies and emerging talent pools.
A key pillar of the deal is Neva SGR’s investment on behalf of Intesa Sanpaolo Group in Vertis Venture 6 Digital Sud (VV6), a special fund managed through the group’s Innovation Ecosystem Development Fund (SEI).
The VV6 tool targets companies at all stages of development, with investments ranging from €0.5 million to €5 million.
Focus areas are closely aligned with the most dynamic areas of the digital economy, such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity. fintechand agricultural technology.
By supporting these sectors, the fund aims to establish solid technology clusters in Southern Italy, attract new capital and specialized skills and ultimately create high-value job opportunities.
Launched just over a year ago, VV6 has already attracted more than €49.5 million in commitments.
We have completed seven investments and plan to complete six more investments opportunities by the end of this year.
This momentum demonstrates growing confidence in the South’s capacity to host competitive technology startups.
The collaboration between Intesa Sanpaolo and Vertis SGR represents more than a simple business partnership financing adjustment; It signals a coordinated effort to transform southern Italy into a vibrant hub for innovation.
By combining banking With its strength, entrepreneurial expertise and targeted ecosystem building initiatives, partners now aim to: unlock New economic prospects, preserving local talent and positioning the region as a meaningful contributor to Italy’s wider development digital transition.
