The search for the Southern Stars begins again

Highlighting the success of Southern Italia through the stories of outstanding businesses that know how to turn challenges into opportunities. It is in this spirit that the “Stelle del Sud” initiative returns, organised by *Il Sole 24 Ore* in collaboration with the international analytics and research firm Statista. Following the success of previous editions, the aim this time is once again to highlight the best companies in Southern Italy in the ‘Stelle del Sud 2027’ ranking, which will recognise those that have distinguished themselves through extraordinary achievements in the region’s business landscape.

Companies have until 18 October to submit their applications: to register, simply visit dedicated page. The final ranking, which will include 200 companies, will be published in March 2027.

Southern Italia is home not only to extraordinary natural beauty, but also to entrepreneurs – both men and women – who possess boldness, determination and talent, and who demonstrate every day that success knows no geographical boundaries. Following the enthusiasm of previous editions, we hope for even greater participation this year to give visibility and a voice to the many outstanding businesses in the region. The aim of ‘Stelle del Sud’ is to identify and showcase the ‘rare gems’ of the southern economy, offering them a national platform that highlights their contribution to the country’s economy and progress.

The ranking is eagerly awaited by businesses in the South wishing to assess their economic and social performance in what is undoubtedly a complex context. Previous editions have seen an average of over 300 businesses take part, with 200 companies selected in each edition on the basis of growth in turnover, workforce numbers, and tangible and intangible investments. Among the most heavily represented sectors were Industrial Manufacturing, Food and Drink, E-commerce, and IT and Software – a clear indication that Southern Italy has much to offer beyond traditional manufacturing.

In the 2026 edition, compared with previous years, the 200 companies selected by researchers at the global data analytics giant Statista stood out for their greater ability to network, to tap into regional, national and European funds to grow, and to use certifications to better qualify for public tenders and pre-qualification processes as suppliers to large companies. There has also been a marked increase in efficiency in the planning required to participate in projects funded by the National Recovery and Resilience Plan (PNRR) and to access government incentives that have for years supported the construction and plant engineering sectors in terms of energy saving and renewable energy. The list also includes several companies that publish sustainability reports even though they are not subject to compliance requirements, or that have chosen to become benefit corporations.