# How Ruralis Expanded Its Business with Non-Repayable Funding | Ruralis

- Canonical URL: https://wefunder.com/feed/180453
- Entity ID: wefunder:feed_item:180453
- Published at: 2025-03-14 17:28:34 UTC
- Updated at: 2025-07-17 21:11:36 UTC

## Author
Lucio Nitti

## Subject
Ruralis Inc.

## Content
link: https://forbes.it/2025/01/17/startup-proptech-ruralis-finanziamenti-fondo-perduto/How Ruralis Expanded Its Business with Non-Repayable FundingIn a landscape where many Italian founders follow the American model of seeking private capital, it is essential to ask what unique opportunities Italy and Europe offer to early-stage startups. Often, while focusing too much on foreign models, entrepreneurs overlook the potential of European grants and funding programs. The Italian system provides a rare advantage that can be particularly beneficial in the early stages: the opportunity to secure non-repayable funding without diluting equity.Ruralis, a proptech startup dedicated to helping vacation rental owners manage short-term leases, is a prime example of how regional, national, and European initiatives can support the growth of the real estate and tourism sectors in Italy. In 2024, the company secured more than €1 million in non-repayable funding, setting a record in the industry and demonstrating what can be achieved by leveraging Italy’s financial opportunities. While Italian investors often seek rigid contracts with limited capital, public and regional funds are available to support innovation with significant financial backing.However, securing this capital is not easy. Achieving such results required a rigorous strategy and the ability to navigate complex bureaucracy. With Invitalia, for instance, Ruralis initially faced a rejected application. Instead of giving up, the company engaged a legal team that, through a well-documented demonstration of growth and market potential, successfully overturned the decision. In 2024, several Italian regions launched similar grant programs supported by PNRR (Italy’s National Recovery and Resilience Plan) funds.For Ruralis, support came from the Puglia Region. Through the Tecnonidi program, its funding request was quickly approved, allowing the company to open a second office in Corato (BA). This expansion strengthened its commitment to southern Italy and rural areas, where its approach combines digital expertise with deep local knowledge.Although Italy offers many public funding opportunities, too many resources go unclaimed or fail to reach those who could make the most of them. For young entrepreneurs, it is crucial to avoid repeating past mistakes. The goal is to build a more transparent system and make a real impact through determination and strategic planning. After all, launching a startup is about more than just business. It is about pursuing innovation with passion and resilience.