The Italian region of Calabria is offering new residents $33,000 over three years to move to one of its villages.

New residents must start a small business or work as a profession that is needed in the region. The residency, offered by “The Active Residency Project”, is only available to people under the age of 40 . Those selected have 90 days to move to Calabria.

The project has about $829,000 to distribute to new residents and can provide grants to help launch hotels, restaurants and other businesses, according to project site.

The plan to revitalize the area with new residents and businesses is a “response to the depopulation of the interior that has so much to offer in terms of architectural and tourist enhancement,” said regional councilor Gianluca Gallo.

Gallo said the project’s aim is to increase employment and advancement in smaller villages.

“Small municipalities are the real identity of our territory – and are in danger of disappearing,” said Gallo. Bringing new residents and businesses to the villages “will allow the rebirth of small villages and the redemption of young Calabrians who need jobs”.

Nine villages are participating in the program:

Albidone

Aieta

Bova

Caccuri

Santa Severina

San Donato di Ninea

Civita

Sant’Agata del Bianco

Samo and Precacore

To learn more about Calabria and the project, visit the website: https://portale.regione.calabria.it/website/