Using machine learning to assess public policies: a real case study for supporting SMEs development in Italy

In recent years, several initiatives have been taken by governments to support investments in small and medium-sized enterprises. The aim is to foster their access to finance, and thus enhance their competitiveness. This paper investigates, through artificial intelligence, the socio-economic effects of these financial instruments on the performance and business continuity of the beneficiary companies. Moreover, this paper illustrates how artificial intelligence can support public decision-makers in creating and deploying regional policies. This study is a part of the collaboration among Arisk Srl and some policy-makers of the Regional Government of Piedmont (Italy).