The search for the Southern Stars begins again

Telling the success story of Southern Italy through the stories of excellent companies that know how to turn challenges into opportunities. This is the spirit behind the return of the 'Stars of the South' initiative, promoted by Il Sole 24 Ore in collaboration with the international analysis and research company Statista. Following the success of the previous editions, the aim in 2026 is to highlight the best companies in Southern Italy in the Stelle del Sud 2026 classification, which will reward those who have distinguished themselves for extraordinary results in the area's entrepreneurial panorama.

Companies have until 27 September to apply: to register, simply go to the dedicated page. A new feature has been introduced this year. A new participation criterion has been added for companies: revenues for the year 2021 (which is the reference year for everyone) must not be less than 100,000 euros. The final ranking, which will include 200 companies, will be published in March 2026.

In Southern Italy there are not only extraordinary natural beauties, but also entrepreneurs and businesswomen capable of audacity, determination and talent, who prove every day that success has no geographical boundaries. After the enthusiasm of the previous editions, we hope for even greater participation this year in order to give visibility and voice to the many excellent realities of the area. The aim of 'Stars of the South' is to identify and recount the 'rare gems' of the southern economic fabric, offering them a national stage that enhances their contribution to the country's economy and progress.

The ranking is particularly eagerly awaited by southern companies wishing to measure their economic and social performance in what is certainly a complex context. An average of over 300 companies participated in previous editions and 200 companies were selected in each edition on the basis of growth in turnover, employees and tangible and intangible investments. Among the most represented sectors were Industrial Production, Food and Beverage, E-commerce and IT and Software, a clear indication that the Mezzogiorno has much to offer beyond traditional manufacturing.