In the heart of Bari, Italy, a remarkable story of transformation and determination unfolds through the journey of Dmytro Nevynnyi, a 27-year-old entrepreneur originally from Ukraine. Dmytro’s path took a pivotal turn at the age of 17 when he arrived in Italy, evolving from a dental technician to a passionate massage therapist and business owner.

Discovering a New Calling

Dmytro’s journey toward entrepreneurship was fueled by his innate desire to help people. While still in his early career as a dental technician, he discovered his natural ability for massage and body treatment techniques by assisting friends with shoulder pain. This experience prompted Dmytro to invest in his education, leading to formal training in massage therapy and body treatment techniques, through which he acquired multiple certifications.

Establishing Grizzly Studio

Armed with newfound skills and motivation, Dmytro founded Grizzly Studio, a massage and body treatment studio situated in the vibrant center of Bari, in the region of Puglia. Grizzly Studio offers a range of services, including relaxing and anti-cellulite massages and drainage treatments. Dmytro approaches each client with a personalised touch, carefully considering their medical history before delivering therapy.

However, like many young entrepreneurs, Dmytro faced challenges in accessing conventional loans to fund his startup. His limited experience, lack of financial records, and status as a migrant entrepreneur presented significant barriers.

PerMicro’s Support: A Turning Point

Recognising the potential of Dmytro’s vision, PerMicro stepped in to provide essential support. Through the “Futurae” project—a collaboration involving Unioncamere, Banca Etica, and PerMicro—Dmytro received comprehensive training that equipped him with vital entrepreneurial, technical, and managerial skills. This training was crucial in helping him develop not only his business acumen but also his confidence in navigating the complexities of entrepreneurship.

With the assistance of a loan from PerMicro, Dmytro was able to secure a professional space for Grizzly Studio, purchase necessary furniture, and invest in advertising to promote his services. The process was made smoother with the guidance of Filomena Lattanzi, the manager of the PerMicro branch in Bari, who worked closely with Dmytro to prepare a robust business plan and manage the required documentation.

Making an Impact

Today, Grizzly Studio stands as a testament to Dmytro’s dedication and commitment to his craft. Beyond providing therapeutic services, Dmytro demonstrates a customer-oriented approach, engaging clients through creative and informative content on his Instagram page. His journey reflects not only personal success but also significant social impact.

PerMicro’s investment in Dmytro has yielded numerous benefits, including:

• Supporting the economic inclusion of a migrant entrepreneur.
• Promoting self-employment and local economic development.
• Facilitating the establishment of a sustainable small business.
• Encouraging financial inclusion and empowerment.

Filomena Lattanzi speaks highly of Dmytro, describing him as passionate, professional, and possessing “the mind of an entrepreneur.”

Looking Ahead

As Dmytro continues to grow Grizzly Studio, he remains focused on self-improvement and business expansion. His story emphasises how microfinance institutions like PerMicro can play a pivotal role in empowering individuals, supporting integration, and fostering economic independence.

In a world where challenges abound, Dmytro’s journey stands out as an inspiring narrative of perseverance, passion, and the transformative power of community support.

We are thrilled to announce the launch of EMN’s new podcast, microtalk.! This exciting initiative aims to spotlight the inspiring stories of micro-entrepreneurs from Europe and beyond. Each episode will explore important themes such as women entrepreneurs, youth and migrant entrepreneurship, financial inclusion, and financial health.

In celebration of our launch, we are proud to align this initiative with the ongoing European Microfinance Day campaign, which amplifies the voices of micro-entrepreneurs supported by EMN’s member organisations.

The first episode is now available on both Spotify and YouTube! In this captivating premiere, we feature the remarkable journey of Mathieu Beauval, an innovative entrepreneur from La Réunion. Driven by the significant food waste witnessed during the pandemic, Mathieu established “Les Délices de Mamie,” a business focused on creating gluten-free products from overlooked fruits and vegetables. With the support of ADIE, he navigated financial challenges and built a thriving sustainable business, engaging the community and raising awareness about food waste.

Don’t miss out—follow our official podcast pages on LinkedIn and Instagram to stay updated and tune in for future episodes!

In today’s fast-paced world, the challenge of social isolation among the elderly has become increasingly pronounced. In Nuoro, Sardinia, the Vivere Insieme Cooperative is rising to meet this challenge head-on, offering a refreshing approach to elderly care that prioritises community engagement and social connection.

A Unique Approach to Elderly Care

Founded by three qualified healthcare professionals —Lucia, Sabrina, and Emanuela— Vivere Insieme introduces the concept of senior cohousing. This model is founded on the belief that elderly individuals are not mere “patients” or “users” but integral members of the community, deserving of autonomy and social interaction. The cooperative places self-sufficient and partially self-sufficient elderly people at the center of its operations, aiming to enhance their quality of life while reducing feelings of loneliness.

Services Offered to Combat Social Isolation

Vivere Insieme offers a range of services designed to cultivate a vibrant and interactive community. At the heart of its mission are the cohousing facilities that create a supportive environment, allowing residents to share experiences and activities, which helps foster friendships and reduce feelings of isolation. The cooperative places a strong emphasis on personal development through daily activities and programs, including regular workshops and social events that engage residents and promote active aging. Its strategic location in the heart of the city further enhances community integration, providing residents with convenient access to local shops, cafés, and services, which facilitates daily interactions with the broader community. Additionally, Vivere Insieme supports caregivers by providing them relief, allowing them to recharge while ensuring their loved ones are engaged and cared for in a nurturing environment.

The Role of Coopfin and Microfinance

While the vision for Vivere Insieme was ambitious, the journey to its realisation faced significant financial hurdles. The founders encountered challenges securing traditional funding due to the lack of a credit history and assets. This is where Coopfin and microfinance stepped in.

Coopfin provided vital support through tailored microcredit solutions specifically designed for cooperative initiatives. This funding was instrumental in covering the costs of renovations and the initial investments needed to bring their vision to life. Beyond financial assistance, Coopfin also played a crucial role in guiding the cooperative through the startup phases. They helped establish proper management structures, navigate regional registries, and develop essential internal regulations.

Moreover, Coopfin supported Vivere Insieme in creating a robust promotional strategy, including the development of a user-friendly website and communication plan, which were essential for attracting residents and facilitating community engagement.

A Vision for the Future

Now fully operational, Vivere Insieme hosts 15 residents and welcomes several day guests, proving the demand for innovative elderly care solutions. Encouraged by the success of their initial facility, the founders are actively seeking additional properties to scale their operations and establish similar facilities, amplifying their positive impact on the community.

In conclusion, the Vivere Insieme initiative exemplifies how thoughtful, community-oriented services can combat the pervasive issue of social isolation among the elderly. With the support of Coopfin and microfinance, this cooperative has not only transformed the lives of its residents but also enriched the wider Nuoro community. Through dedication, innovation, and collaboration, Vivere Insieme is pioneerising a model that redefines care for the aging population, ensuring they lead fulfilling, active, and engaged lives within their community.

In an inspiring tale of innovation and resilience, Mathieu Beauval from La Réunion is redefining local entrepreneurship through his commitment to sustainability and community engagement. As part of the 2026 European Microfinance Day Campaign, we spotlight his journey, which exemplifies the transformative power of microfinance and the vital role of support systems like ADIE.

A Passion for Sustainability

Mathieu Beauval, 37, hails from the Plateau Goyaves neighborhood in Saint Louis, La Réunion, where valuing local resources and championing sustainability were ingrained in his upbringing. With a keen sensitivity to environmental issues and a commitment to combatting food waste, Mathieu embarked on a professional journey after working as an independent contractor for EDF, the French national utility company. However, the Covid-19 pandemic prompted a profound re-evaluation of his career and a desire to contribute more meaningfully to his community.

This self-reflection led Mathieu to a pivotal moment in 2020 when he witnessed the astonishing amount of fruits and vegetables discarded because they did not meet market standards despite being perfectly edible. This revelation sparked his entrepreneurial vision: to transform this overlooked produce into high-value-added food products, merging the concepts of a circular economy and social responsibility.

Founding “Les Délices de Mamie”

With a determination to make a difference, Mathieu founded “Les Délices de Mamie,” a company dedicated to processing local fruits and vegetables. The business specialises in creating gluten-free flours, jams, syrups, herbal teas, and more, making use of the raw materials that would otherwise go to waste.

Despite his passion and innovative approach, Mathieu encountered significant obstacles in accessing traditional bank financing. As a young entrepreneur with an evolving business model, he struggled to secure the necessary investments for processing equipment and product development, often facing the stringent financial requirements of conventional banks.

The Crucial Role of ADIE

In 2023, when faced with cash flow challenges and a pressing need for growth, Mathieu turned to ADIE for support. ADIE provided crucial funding, allowing him to invest in production equipment and establish a small artisanal workshop. This transformation significantly improved hygiene standards, increased production capacity, and diversified his product offerings.

Beyond financial assistance, ADIE’s personalised coaching and training were instrumental in helping Mathieu build a sustainable business model. He received essential skills in budget management, allowing him to structure his project effectively and plan for the future.

Community Engagement and Social Impact

Mathieu’s enterprise is not solely about food production; it is deeply rooted in community involvement. He often recruits friends and neighbors during peak production times, fostering a spirit of collaboration and shared purpose. Recognition of the need for awareness, Mathieu also engages in educational initiatives, organising workshops for schools, community centers, and local associations. These efforts promote sustainable eating habits and combat food waste, amplifying his impact on the community.

As a result of these initiatives, Mathieu’s business is flourishing, recovering and transforming over one ton of fruits and vegetables each year. His commitment to working closely with local producers strengthens the circular economy in La Réunion, ensuring that his success contributes positively to the local agricultural landscape.

Looking to the Future

Mathieu’s aspirations are clear: he aims to expand the production of gluten-free flour to make it accessible to a broader audience while remaining true to his sustainable values. He plans to gradually introduce his products into select supermarkets across the island, increasing accessibility and awareness of responsible consumption.

Moreover, Mathieu’s dedication goes beyond business; he envisions himself as a trainer and influencer in the community, continuously advocating for responsible food practices and the fight against food waste.

Mathieu Beauval’s journey is a powerful illustration of how microfinance, coupled with community support, can lead to social, economic, and environmental change. Thanks to the interventions of ADIE, his business has grown, structured itself effectively, and created local value while tackling significant social challenges.

In a world increasingly concerned with sustainability and local empowerment, Mathieu stands as a role model for aspiring entrepreneurs, demonstrating that with the right support and community involvement, transformative change is possible.

The European Microfinance Network (EMN) and the Microfinance Centre (MFC) are excited to announce the establishment of a new Microfinance Advocacy Committee, which will be jointly chaired by representatives from both organizations. This initiative aims to enhance advocacy efforts within the microfinance sector across the European Union.

The committee is seeking candidates from EMN and MFC member organizations who are actively involved in microfinance to participate in this important endeavor. Ideal candidates will be dedicated practitioners willing to contribute to the development of advocacy strategies and activities that address the sector’s diverse challenges and priorities.

The primary objectives of the Microfinance Advocacy Committee include:

– Building consensus on key concerns and challenges faced by the microfinance industry.
– Enhancing the visibility of the sector and demonstrating its impact and results.
– Strengthening collaboration among practitioners, policymakers, and public investors.

To learn more about the purpose, objectives, composition, functioning, and selection process of the Microfinance Advocacy Committee, interested individuals are encouraged to refer to the Terms of Reference.

Applications are open until 11th May 2026. To apply, please submit your CV along with the completed application form to the following email addresses: m.vial@european-microfinance.org, mc.ndour@european-microfinance.org, and Beata@mfc.org.pl.

The EMN and MFC teams look forward to receiving applications and working collaboratively to bolster microfinance research and advocacy efforts in Europe.

Brussels, April 22nd, 2026 – The European Microfinance Network (EMN) held its board meeting in Brussels last week, on April 15th, marking a significant leadership transition as Laure Coussirat-Coustére concluded her tenure as EMN President. The board is pleased to announce the appointment of Stefan Buciuc, CEO of BCR Social Finance from Romania, as the new President.

In his inaugural message, Stefan expressed a profound sense of responsibility and urgency regarding the challenges facing microfinance in Europe.

“Taking on the presidency of the European Microfinance Network fills me with both pride and a sense of urgency. Nearly 95 million people in the European Union live at risk of poverty or social exclusion. Behind that number are individuals with talent, determination, and ideas — held back not by lack of ambition, but by lack of access. Microfinance exists to break that barrier. It is not a safety net; it is a springboard. And as I take on this role, I am determined that our sector steps up to match the scale of the challenge before us — including the profound transformation that artificial intelligence is already bringing to every corner of our economies.

The EU has set out bold commitments through the European Pillar of Social Rights, yet the financing gap for the most vulnerable entrepreneurs remains stubbornly wide. At the same time, the AI revolution is reshaping labour markets at speed, displacing jobs, creating new ones, and — if we are not deliberate — deepening existing inequalities. Those already on the margins are the most exposed. Microfinance providers must be at the forefront of this transition: helping excluded entrepreneurs adopt digital tools, access innovation, and compete in an economy that is changing faster than our policy frameworks can follow.

InvestEU and ESF+ have proven their worth, but we must be honest: the current level of ambition is not enough. We need more resources, faster deployment, and smarter design — instruments built for a 21st-century economy, applicable also for EU candidate countries. Not the ones we had a decade ago. EMN will not be a passive observer in Brussels. We will advocate loudly, with data and with conviction, for a policy environment that treats financial inclusion and economic competitiveness as two sides of the same coin.

The negotiation of the next Multiannual Financial Framework is our defining moment. Europe faces a stark choice: invest seriously in the people and communities left furthest behind, or risk deepening the fractures that already threaten our social and economic fabric. In a world where AI and technological innovation are concentrating wealth and opportunity at the top, the MFF must be an instrument of rebalancing — placing microfinance at the heart of Europe’s competitiveness agenda, not at its margins.

I call on EU institutions and Member States to commit to dedicated, ring-fenced funding, reduced bureaucratic barriers, and a long-term vision that empowers millions of people to build their own economic future. Because a Europe that is innovative and competitive but leaves a third of its people behind is not a success — it is a failure. The European Microfinance Network is ready to lead that fight.”

As part of the leadership changes, Lorraine de Fierlant, General Director at Microstart (Belgium), has been appointed as the new Vice-President of the board alongside with Emanuele Cabras (Coopfin, Italy), and Alexandre Nayme, responsible for BNP Paribas Inclusive Finance in Europe and Africa, joins as a board member.

The EMN remains committed to taking an active stance in advocating for financial inclusion and social equity within the European framework. Stefan’s passionate call to action sets the tone for a concerted effort to ensure that microfinance is not relegated to the periphery but is integrated at the core of Europe’s competitive agenda.

The European Microfinance Network is dedicated to leading the fight for an inclusive economic future, ensuring that the needs of all entrepreneurs, particularly the most vulnerable, are met with urgency and conviction.