Alternative Ways of Financing Civic ‘Place-Based’ Initiatives in Italy: A Case Study Approach

Civic crowdfunding is a tool for developing a new way of interacting between citizens and the public sector and for supporting public finance. This paper investigates the supply side of the Italian civic crowdfunding market. By using a case study approach, the paper shows the fundamental role played by local public administration in promoting, selecting and financing projects searching for funds, and for driving the successful conclusion of such projects. Matched funding schemes are crucial for a positive conclusion. The study also sheds light on the operational features and business model of the crowdfunding platforms involved in civic initiatives.