Immigrant entrepreneurship in the Made in Italy agri-food sector

In recent decades, immigration has become a structural component of Italian society and economy. Within this context, immigrant entrepreneurship stands out as a dynamic and growing phenomenon, particularly relevant in sectors such as agriculture. By the end of 2022, foreign-owned businesses accounted for over 10% of all enterprises in Italy, while in agriculture they represented 2.7%—a share that, though limited, has grown by 18.2% between 2018 and 2022, against a decline in Italian-owned farms. The agri-food sector, a pillar of the Italian economy and a symbol of national identity, benefits from the presence of immigrant entrepreneurs who contribute to rural revitalization, respond to labor shortages, and introduce new skills and practices. This study investigates the role of immigrant entrepreneurship in the Made in Italy agri-food sector through a dual lens: a quantitative analysis of territorial distribution (RQ1) and a qualitative exploration of entrepreneurial paths, motivations, and challenges (RQ2). The findings underscore the strategic value of immigrant entrepreneurship in supporting the vitality and sustainability of local agricultural systems, while also highlighting persistent barriers—such as limited access to credit and complex bureaucracy—that require targeted policy attention.