In the commitment to sustainable agriculture capable of meeting the needs of local communities, the Coltivare Valore and Ruralis calls for proposals, initially born from the collaboration between the Environment Area and the Personal Services Area of the Foundation, have supported 67 innovative projects in 6 years, for a total of over 15 million euros in contributions.
With Coltivare Valore (2018-2021), 41 projects were supported, with the participation of 119 partners including public and private non-profit actors. The initiatives, largely aimed at reclaiming abandoned land, have led to the redevelopment of over 200 hectares, of which about 50 have already been brought back into cultivation (end 2024), often using organic methods. More than 212 employment pathways have been activated, many of which benefit disadvantaged people such as those with disabilities, migrants, and people with addictions. Numerous activities have promoted agricultural multifunctionality, including training workshops, horticultural therapy, and the enhancement of local products.
In collaboration with the Evaluation Lab of the Fondazione Social Venture Giordano dell'Amore, a monitoring and evaluation process of the results of the projects supported by Coltivare Valore was carried out. The interactive report provides a tool for exploring the collected data, allowing for an in-depth analysis of the outcomes achieved by the various interventions.
The Ruralis call for proposals (2022-2024), with 26 supported projects and 60 partners involved, focused on greater integration between agriculture and natural capital, concentrating on the recovery and enhancement of the rural landscape. The projects are still ongoing, with about 40 hectares of land awaiting redevelopment, 30 farms involved, and over 150 people participating in therapeutic and work inclusion pathways. Additionally, the increase in training has promoted the transmission of agroecological practices, involving about 60 farmers and local operators so far. The entities supported through the call are currently promoting agriculture based on territorial stewardship, social inclusion, equity in production processes, and landscape redevelopment. Thanks to these projects, agriculture not only ensures healthier and fairer products but also becomes a tool for social cohesion and sustainable development for rural communities.
