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: the threat of depopulation. As the last bar and shop were closing, the community was on the brink of extinction. In response, the villagers united to establish a cooperative that combined agriculture and tourism, transforming a former abandoned school into a bar and grocery store. This initiative marked the beginning of a unique community cooperative aimed at sustaining the local population.

The cooperative's activities now encompass agriculture 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 revival has significantly increased the area's population from 63 in the winter to over 500 during the tourist season, even prompting some former residents to return to the valley.

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 helped stabilize their budget during the winter months. As a result of these efforts, the cooperative has not only saved the village from depopulation but is also expanding its business, having added six new rooms to their tourist offerings and planning further growth annually.