Investment & Fund Management

Nestled in the rolling green hills of the Tuscan Emilian Apennines National Park, the Valle dei Cavalieri cooperative faced a significant challenge 28 years ago due to severe depopulation, which threatened the community's existence. As local businesses closed, the villagers, led by President Dario Torri, united to establish a cooperative that combined agriculture and tourism to revitalize their area. They transformed a former abandoned school into a bar and grocery store, marking the inception of the first community cooperative of its kind in the region.

The cooperative's activities now encompass agricultural production and hospitality, attracting both tourists and educational institutions. They offer workshops that educate visitors on the production of their DOP pecorino cheese, from milking to seasoning, and provide opportunities for local youth to learn farming skills. This initiative has significantly increased the local population from 63 in winter to over 500 during the tourist season, effectively reversing the trend of depopulation. The cooperative has fostered a strong sense of community, with 56 of the 63 residents actively participating as members.

To address seasonal cash flow challenges, the cooperative secured an EU-guaranteed loan through Credito Emiliano (CREDEM), backed by the European Investment Fund (EIF) under the Investment Plan for Europe. This financial support has been crucial in managing their budget during the low season. The cooperative has successfully saved the village from desertion and is now focused on growth, having recently added six new rooms to their tourist accommodations, with plans for further expansion in the future.