The tiny Italian mountain village of Santo Stefano di Sessanio, in the Abruzzo region, has only 115 people living there. They’ve started a program to attract new permanent residents to help with the depopulation issue. Participants should be between 18 and 40 years old (Italian citizens, EU citizens, or foreigners with a residence permit). They’ll get housing for a low rent and a financial support package of up to 44,000 euros. The program provides for payments of up to €8,000 per year for three years, as well as a one-time startup grant of up to €20,000 to open a business. In return, new residents have to actually live in the village and contribute to the local economy, especially in tourism, crafts, hospitality, or household services.
A small mountain village in Italy has decided to tackle its population decline in an unusual way. New residents are promised housing, financial assistance, and grants to start a business. The village we’re talking about is Santo Stefano di Sessanio, which is about 1,300 meters up in the Abruzzo region. Meglepetes says that, right now, there are about 115 people living here, and most of them are elderly.
Local leaders are hoping to attract young people and breathe new life into the historic village with its narrow stone streets and medieval atmosphere.
Reports say the program isn’t for tourists, but for people who are really ready to move and live in the village full-time. Participants get an apartment for cheap, some monthly financial support, and help getting their own business off the ground.
How much money is on the table?
Newcomers can get up to 8,000 euros a year for three years. You’ll get an extra 20,000 euros to get your business off the ground. The total support package can reach 44,000 euros.
But there’s one important thing to keep in mind: folks who want to join in must actually live in the village and be involved in the local economy.
Who can take part in the program?
People aged 18 to 40 can apply. The program is open to Italians, citizens of European Union countries, and foreigners with a valid residence permit in Italy.
The most in-demand sectors include tourism, hotels, crafts, and organizing tours and cultural events. We also encourage small-scale services that are essential for the daily lives of local residents.
The program’s main goal is to save the village from disappearing, as acknowledged by local authorities.
We should mention that Santo Stefano di Sessanio is considered one of the most beautiful mountain villages in Italy. Now you can come here not just as a tourist, but also to start a new life amidst the mountains and medieval landscapes.