Innovation made in Ticino: new measures to support innovation in SMEs

The USI-SUPSI East Campus hosted the presentation of the new measures provided for by the Economic Innovation Act (LInn), a key tool that the Canton of Ticino uses to support the technological development and competitiveness of small and medium-sized enterprises. The encounter, attended by State Councillor and Director of the DFE Christian Vitta, featured numerous players from the regional innovation ecosystem.

In his speech, Luca Maria Gambardella, Pro-Rector for Innovation and Corporate Relations at USI, illustrated concrete examples of collaboration and innovative projects between the University and businesses, highlighting how academic research is an essential driver of innovation and impact in the region.

"USI is here! The University has solid academic expertise and a well-organised internal structure capable of supporting the development of partnerships and strategic projects with businesses, strengthening the bridge between research and the economy," Prof. Gambardella emphasised in his speech.

Similarly, Emanuele Carpanzano, Director of Research, Development, and Knowledge Transfer at SUPSI, presented projects developed with Ticino companies that demonstrate the strategic role of research centres in supporting SMEs.

In addition to the presentations by USI and SUPSI, the panel provided further insights into the canton's innovation journey. Local business representatives shared their experiences regarding the current challenges they face, including the need for specialised skills, as well as the opportunities and pressures of accelerating digitisation and internationalisation. This discussion highlighted the importance of targeted public policies, links with the academic world, and the Ticino system's ability to work in networks.

Among the main new developments announced under the LInn is a new measure dedicated to technology transfer between Swiss research centres and Ticino companies. The support promotes the implementation of projects in the experimental phase, with contributions of up to CHF 50,000 and a simplified procedure specifically designed for SMEs active in medium-tech sectors.

Support for companies participating in international trade fairs has also been expanded: for the two years 2026–2027, the annual contribution may reach CHF 50,000, providing concrete support for access to new markets and reducing dependence on a limited number of commercial outlets.

Reiterating the importance of the link between academia and business, the conclusions of the meeting – presented by Nicoletta Casanova, President of the Ticino Industry Association (AITI), and Cristina Maderni, Vice President of Cc-Ti – emphasised how collaboration with institutions such as USI and SUPSI is one of the distinctive features of the "Ticino model." A model that continues to keep the canton among the most innovative regions in Europe.

For more information on the LInn measures: www.ti.ch/innovazione