Microcredit and Local Development in Southern Italy: Highlights from the Tricase Workshop

On July 28th, the town of Tricase hosted a full-day workshop dedicated to the role of microfinance in advancing local development and youth entrepreneurship in Southern Italy’s inner areas.

Organized by MFC and Rete Italiana di Microfinanza – RITMI under the SIFTA Program, the event brought together Italian MFIs, SEFPs, civil society, public institutions, and academics for strategic dialogue on how microcredit and civil economy approaches can revitalize marginal territories.

The agenda featured leading voices from regional development and finance, with impactful discussions on youth enterprise, policy innovation, and the importance of place-based financial tools. Speakers included representatives from Tor Vergata University, Banca Popolare Pugliese, PerMicro, ARPAL Puglia, and local development agencies.

The workshop offered a platform for connection and exchange, reinforcing the role of microfinance in building inclusive, sustainable local economies.