Presence and distribution patterns of cooperatives in Italian inner areas

This paper examines the presence and distribution of cooperatives in Italy’s inner areas, territories marked by limited access to essential services and persistent socio-economic marginalisation. Cooperatives and social economy organisations have historically emerged as bottom-up responses to market and state shortcomings, yet their role in fragile and remote areas remains underexplored. Building on evidence that cooperatives are widespread in regions with weaker labour markets, this study investigates whether, and how, cooperatives act as socio-economic infrastructures in inner areas where other organisational models face structural constraints. Using a mixed-methods approach, the research combines descriptive and comparative statistical analysis with spatial econometrics and semi-structured interviews. Results show that while cooperatives represent only 4% of Italian enterprises, their share rises to 9.1% in ultra-peripheral municipalities, with employment contributions reaching 14% and production 7.7%. Moran’s I and LISA statistics confirm spatial clustering, suggesting that cooperative presence depends on enabling local systems rather than random factors. The exploratory interviews reveal the micro-institutional mechanisms shaping cooperative presence, highlighting their reliance on associations, municipalities, and external funding. Findings show a dual nature: cooperatives fill gaps in welfare, employment, and local development, yet remain organisationally fragile, with sustainability depending on supportive ecosystems.