The role of cultural entrepreneurship in the economic and social development of Italy’s border islands

This study explores the crucial role that cultural entrepreneurship plays in promoting economic and social development on Italy’s border islands. Focusing on cases such as Pantelleria, Lampedusa, Salina, Panarea, and Lazaretto, the article analyzes how local businesses leverage cultural heritage, traditional products, and local identities to create sustainable forms of entrepreneurship. By connecting culture with tourism, innovative product development, and social inclusion initiatives, cultural entrepreneurship contributes both to economic prosperity and the preservation of social cohesion. The findings highlight the potential of cultural resources as drivers of development in remote and environmentally sensitive areas, while also providing solutions to challenges related to regional inequality and migration. The study proposes policies and practices that integrate cultural entrepreneurship into the development strategies of border islands to ensure sustainability and promote local identity.