Case study (ESF guarantee fund for social inclusion Marche - Italy)

The financial crisis deeply affected both enterprises and employment in the Italian region of Marche. To enhance entrepreneurship and job creation, regional authorities decided to set-up and implement a guarantee scheme that encouraged the private sector to provide loans for starting up a business. The financial instrument supported unemployed and disadvantaged people (especially young people and women) by providing guarantees for medium‑term loans of between EUR 25 000 and EUR 50 000, with no collateral requirements. Additionally, start‑ups received free consultancy and training services in their first year, while a specialised communication company raised awareness among potential final recipients.