Tuscany enacts first regional law to support and promote Pro Loco

Tuscany enacts first regional law to support and promote Pro Loco associations

The Tuscany Region has approved a law aimed at formally recognising and structurally supporting Pro Loco associations, grassroots volunteer organisations that promote local identity, traditions and cultural activities in small towns and villages. Regional Law 54/2025 came into force on 1 January 2026 and introduces practical tools to strengthen these community organisations.

• Effective date: 1 January 2026.
• Regional fund: €350,000 for 2026; €700,000 in total for the 2026–2027 biennium, allocated through public calls for projects.
• Regional Register: established to catalogue and qualify Pro Loco associations; registration is mandatory to access regional contributions.
• Registration period: open from 25 March 2026 via the regional online platform; deadline to participate in 2026 calls: 24 May 2026.
• Project priorities: quality, economic sustainability, valorisation of traditions and typical productions, encouragement of joint initiatives across municipalities.

The Region says the measure aims to reinforce Pro Loco as cultural and social anchors in their territories, enhancing diffuse tourism promotion and collaboration with local authorities. Operational rules were set by a regional resolution on 16 March, with simplified procedures for associations already listed in municipal registers.

Eugenio Giani highlighted the value of institutional recognition: "With the law we introduce, for the first time, structured support: an annual fund to give volunteer associations concrete backing from the Region."

Cristina Manetti noted the novelty of the initiative: "This is the first law dedicated to Pro Loco, accompanied by a Regional Register and a census that will allow us to fully know and value these realities."

Interested Pro Loco must apply exclusively online. Applications submitted by 24 May 2026 will be eligible for the current year and for participation in the 2026 regional calls; later applications will be considered for 2027. The stated aim is to overcome territorial fragmentation and promote projects with wider, multi-municipal impact.