After spending over two decades in Silicon Valley, serial entrepreneur Fabrizio Capobianco has made a significant return to his roots in Valtellina, Italy. With a mission to “give back,” Capobianco has announced the launch of Liquid Factory, a startup studio designed to foster innovation and entrepreneurial spirit among young talents in the Italian Alps. This initiative reflects not only his personal journey but also a broader movement toward revitalizing local communities through entrepreneurship.
A Journey Back to Valtellina
Capobianco’s return to Valtellina is a poignant reminder of the transformative power of technology and remote work. With Sondrio now boasting 99% fiber optic coverage, Capobianco enjoys the benefits of a digital nomad lifestyle—working remotely while being surrounded by breathtaking nature. His life is a blend of work and leisure, allowing him to ski on fresh powder and hike in the summer months, all while maintaining a productive career.
This idyllic lifestyle, however, comes with a profound realization. Capobianco’s experiences in Silicon Valley taught him the importance of giving back, inspiring him to leverage his knowledge and resources to create opportunities for aspiring entrepreneurs in his homeland. “Life is too short to live in a mediocre place,” he asserts. “We need to create companies that make a difference.”
The Vision Behind Liquid Factory
Liquid Factory aims to incubate the next wave of startups in Italy, with a clear focus on developing “liquid companies”—businesses that operate entirely remotely. By embracing this flexible model, Capobianco envisions a new type of startup ecosystem where talent can thrive without being tethered to traditional corporate structures.
The initiative plans to invest €200,000 per company, with a cap of €1 million, in 20 young entrepreneurs over the next five years. This funding will help them develop their business ideas and prepare for potential exits in Silicon Valley, all while allowing the founders to remain in Europe. “We want to keep the brains in Europe,” Capobianco explains, pointing to the dual-mode approach utilized by successful companies like Funambol and TOK.tv.
A Unique Program for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
Liquid Factory’s program is structured to run from three to eighteen months, offering a robust curriculum that covers the essentials of entrepreneurship. With a team of twelve experts—including notable figures like Alberto Onetti and Emanuela Zaccone—participants will receive mentorship, resources, and guidance as they navigate the startup landscape.
The studio aims to foster an environment conducive to creativity and collaboration. Capobianco believes that the challenges of mountain life mirror those faced in entrepreneurship—resilience, teamwork, and an ability to adapt are key. “In the mountains, you face challenges that require teamwork and resilience, just like in startup life,” he notes.
The startup studio will also assist participants in applying to Y Combinator, one of the most prestigious startup accelerators in the world. This connection not only adds credibility to Liquid Factory’s program but also provides participants with invaluable exposure to a global network of entrepreneurs and investors.
The Role of Banca Popolare di Sondrio
Liquid Factory’s ambitious goals have received a significant boost from Banca Popolare di Sondrio, which has provided €4 million to support the initiative. This partnership highlights the importance of local financial institutions in fostering entrepreneurial ecosystems. By investing in startups, banks like Banca Popolare di Sondrio are not only promoting innovation but also contributing to the economic revitalization of their regions.
An Invitation to Aspiring Entrepreneurs
Liquid Factory is actively seeking young innovators with the drive to create impactful businesses. Capobianco encourages anyone with a bold idea—regardless of whether it’s fully formed—to apply. “If you have an idea, apply. If you don’t have one, apply anyway. We have plenty of ideas,” he insists.
The call for applications emphasizes the importance of a shared passion for the outdoors and a willingness to embrace the unique lifestyle that Valtellina offers. Entrepreneurs will have the opportunity to blend work and leisure, developing their minimum viable products (MVPs) in an inspiring natural setting.
A New Chapter for Valtellina
Capobianco’s return and the establishment of Liquid Factory represent a significant shift in the narrative around regional entrepreneurship in Italy. By creating a platform that nurtures talent and promotes innovation, he is contributing to a growing trend of “brain gain” in local communities. As more successful entrepreneurs return to their roots, they bring with them valuable insights, networks, and resources that can spur economic development.
This movement is not just about financial returns; it’s about fostering a culture of innovation that empowers the next generation of entrepreneurs. By reinvesting in local communities, successful entrepreneurs like Capobianco are helping to bridge the gap between established tech hubs and emerging ecosystems.
Conclusion: A Bright Future Ahead
Fabrizio Capobianco’s return to Valtellina and the launch of Liquid Factory signify a promising future for aspiring entrepreneurs in Italy. As the startup studio gears up to support a new generation of innovators, it embodies the spirit of resilience and creativity that characterizes both the mountains and the startup world.
With the backing of local financial institutions and a commitment to nurturing talent, Liquid Factory is poised to become a catalyst for change in the region. As Capobianco aptly puts it, “It’s time to give back.” For those ready to take the plunge into entrepreneurship, the Italian Alps await, promising adventure, inspiration, and the opportunity to change the world.
