Simest is a financial institution for the development and promotion of Italian enterprises abroad. Simest was set up as a limited company in 1990. Simest can acquire up to 49% of the equity capital of foreign firms in countries outside the European Union, whether wholly-owned by Italian companies or set up as joint ventures with local partners. Simest provides start-up and growth capital financing as well as participating in buyouts. Geographically it invests in non-EU countries, focussing on BRIC, Americas and Middle-East. Simest also provides Italian companies seeking to internationalize their businesses with technical assistance and advisory services. Simest is a member of the European Development Finance Institutions (EDFI) and the Italian Venture Capital and Private Equity Association (AIFI).