Support for the territory thanks to new contributions from the Lombardy Region

Oltrepò Pavese now has a new opportunity for territorial development and promotion thanks to the funding programs offered by Regione Lombardia. The opening of the third application window for the grant supporting sports events represents an important occasion for all local entities and associations.

Sports activities, in addition to promoting well-being and social interaction, serve as powerful catalysts for tourism flows and visibility for the region. Major sporting events attract participants, families, fans, and enthusiasts, leading to a significant increase in tourist visits. This translates into immediate economic benefits for local businesses such as accommodation facilities, restaurants, bars, and transport services, as well as a long-term reputational boost for the area.

For Oltrepò Pavese, a region rich in history, nature, and food and wine traditions, organizing sporting events can become a strategic tool to enhance experiential tourism and showcase local excellence. Sports events create opportunities for visitors to explore the area beyond just the event itself, generating positive impacts across the entire economic fabric.

Thanks to regional funding, local entities and associations now have access to crucial resources to plan and organize high-quality events that strengthen Oltrepò Pavese’s position as a dynamic and active tourist destination. Investing in sports promotion is not only an investment in the sector itself but also a concrete contribution to the economic growth and cultural enhancement of the region.

Regione Lombardia has announced the opening of the third application window for the grant supporting sports events. Applications can be submitted from January 8 to January 29, 2025, providing a time frame for accessing funds allocated for sports activities taking place between April 1 and June 30, 2025.
This grant is designed to support sports events that, beyond promoting physical activity, also attract visitors, generate economic impact, and strengthen the sense of community.

Economic operators in Oltrepò Pavese can gain significant advantages from participating in this grant program, which represents a valuable opportunity for the entire region. High-profile sports events, for example, provide a unique occasion to promote the area as an ideal destination for active and sustainable tourism, helping to highlight its natural, cultural, and gastronomic treasures.

Moreover, sports events serve as a driver for tourism growth, attracting participants and spectators who, during their stay, choose to book local hotels, dine in regional restaurants, and shop in nearby stores. This visitor influx generates a positive economic impact, creating business opportunities for service providers, retailers, and other local enterprises.

Beyond economic benefits, sports also serve as a powerful tool for community development. Sporting events create moments of social interaction and unity, strengthening the bond between different social groups and fostering a sense of belonging and collective pride.

Participating in this grant program is not just an opportunity to support sports but also a strategic investment in the economic and social development of Oltrepò Pavese.

Dr. Stefano Spalla, a Pavia-based accountant and expert in facilitated finance, explained how the Regione Lombardia grant for sports events has had a positive impact in previous editions. Thanks to this initiative, many local associations have been able to enhance the quality of their events, increasing the region’s attractiveness and generating tangible economic benefits for the community.
According to Spalla, numerous local associations have seized this opportunity to strengthen their initiatives, obtaining resources that have made events not only more engaging but also more relevant to the territory.
With the funding received, some organizations have improved logistics, enhancing safety and organizational quality, while others have introduced innovative elements such as side activities—markets, shows, or cultural initiatives—that have attracted an even broader audience. These events have not only increased participation but also generated measurable economic benefits, involving hotels, restaurants, shops, and local suppliers.
Spalla emphasized that the grant is designed to be accessible to everyone, including smaller associations, which have often stood out thanks to creative ideas and well-structured projects. “Even a small organization can achieve great things if it has a clear vision and plans carefully. Moreover, collaborating with other associations or local operators can make a difference, both in terms of the event’s overall impact and the chances of success in the selection process.”
The expert concluded by highlighting the importance of leveraging opportunities like this grant to invest not only in sports but also in territorial promotion and development. Sports events are not just moments of gathering and entertainment but real drivers of tourism and local economic growth. “Every event can become an opportunity to enhance the region and its excellence,” Spalla stated.

Public entities, sports associations, foundations, and other interested organizations are encouraged to carefully prepare the necessary documentation for application submission.

• A detailed project plan for the sports event
• An estimated budget
• A report on the expected benefits for the territory

Applications must be submitted through the Regione Lombardia portal, following the specific instructions provided in the call for proposals.

To get the most out of this opportunity, it is advisable to:

• Actively involve local communities both in the planning phase and during the event
• Actively involve local communities both in the planning phase and during the event
• Promote the event through digital channels, including social media and tourism promotion platforms

Thanks to Regione Lombardia’s grant, Oltrepò Pavese has the opportunity to strengthen its position as a prime destination for sports events and experiential tourism. Don’t miss this chance to contribute to the region’s growth and enhance its reputation at the regional and national levels.
For more details, visit the official website of Regione Lombardia and start planning your winning project today!
The editorial team of Focus Oltrepò is available to provide all necessary support to associations, municipalities, entities, and facilities interested in participating.