The CONNECT call 2026, promoted by the Milan Monza Brianza Lodi Chamber of Commerce, was created with the aim of supporting companies that intend to strengthen their digital presence in international markets.
In practice, the initiative is part of the broader drive to support the digitization and internationalization of local SMEs, encouraging targeted investments in online marketing, promotion and visibility abroad.
Who is eligible for the CONNECT 2026 Call for Proposals.
Micro, small and medium-sized enterprises that:
- Have an active operational headquarters in the provinces of Milan, Monza Brianza or Lodi;
- Have their own website or e-commerce, regularly online and usable;
- have already initiated a structured digital presence, with at least one language other than Italian on the site;
- use at least one active social channel, such as LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram or TikTok.
On the other hand, enterprises that have already benefited from CONNECTED 2024 or 2025 calls are not eligible to participate, as per the official regulations.
Amount of contribution and investment required
The notice provides for a non-repayable grant equal to 60 percent of eligible expenses, up to a maximum of 10,000 euros per company.
In detail, to be considered valid, the project must involve a minimum total investment of 4,000 euros.
In practical terms, this means that a structured and consistent project can achieve significant coverage of the costs incurred, making strategic digital marketing interventions to foreign countries more affordable.
What expenses are allowed
The CONNECTS Call 2026 funds activities related to international digital development and promotion, including:
- digital marketing services oriented to foreign markets;
- Online promotion campaigns, on search engines and social platforms;
- SEO and SEA activities, aimed at increasing brand visibility outside Italy.
Expenditures must be consistent with the objectives of the call and within the limits set by the regulations, which is why it is essential to set up the project correctly from the budgeting stage.
Timing and organization
Applications can be submitted from February 5, 2026, until the available resources are exhausted.
Therefore, given the structure of the call, it is advisable to move early, working on:
- Verification of business requirements;
- Definition of a clear, foreign-oriented project;
- Preparation of quotations in accordance with the rules of the notice;
- Any linguistic or technical adjustments to the website.
Careful planning reduces the risk of exclusion and simplifies the reporting phase.
Why the CONNECT call 2026 is a real opportunity
For many SMEs, this call represents a strategic opportunity to:
- Expand digital visibility in international markets;
- Intercept new business contacts outside Italy;
- investing in online marketing with the support of government grants, reducing the initial economic impact.
If used correctly, the grant can become a real accelerator of digital growth.
Isola di Comunicazione’s support
Isola di Comunicazione works alongside companies in digital marketing-related calls, taking care of activity planning, material preparation and operational support.
In this context, the agency has the prerequisites required by most digital calls:
- operating as a Google Ads partner – and from 2025 Google Premier Partner, falling within the top 3% of agencies certified by Google
- as well as holding Google Analytics certification,
- With proven demonstrable experience in online digital marketing and internationalization projects.
Isola di Comunicazione also participated in the Connected 2025 call for proposals..
Contact us now to assess whether the CONNECT 2026 Call for Proposals is right for your company or to see if other funding opportunities consistent with your goals are active.
