Foqus Foundation Spanish Quarter

FOQUS (Fondazione Quartieri Spagnoli) is an innovative urban regeneration initiative situated in the Spanish Quarters of Naples, focusing on transforming this historically fragile area into a vibrant community hub. Since its inception in 2013, FOQUS has rehabilitated the former Montecalvario Institute, creating spaces for various public and private organizations. The project's primary aim is to foster employment, entrepreneurship, and self-employment opportunities, particularly targeting youth and women, which aligns with its broader goals of cultural and creative industry development. The project encompasses a diverse array of facilities and services, including educational institutions, child care facilities, and training centers. Notable entities within the FOQUS framework include the Dalla Parte Dei Bambini primary and kindergarten schools, the Le Pleiadi daycare center, and the ARGO mental rehabilitation center, which has been instrumental in supporting the cognitive development of children and youth with disabilities. Additionally, FOQUS houses co-working spaces, creative studios, and even an online newspaper, thereby fostering a comprehensive ecosystem for personal and societal growth. Distinguishing itself from other urban regeneration projects in Europe, such as those in Amsterdam and Vienna, FOQUS primarily operates through private funding and initiative, steering clear of public sector dependency. This self-sustaining model allows FOQUS to experiment with new social welfare approaches, emphasizing cooperation, sustainability, and civic entrepreneurship. The project champions social mobility and development, intending to mitigate the challenges faced by the Spanish Quarter—characterized by social exclusion and limited access to essential services. Through its multifaceted programs and initiatives, FOQUS has become a cornerstone of revitalization in the Spanish Quarter, striving to improve the quality of life for its residents while simultaneously serving as a model for urban regeneration efforts elsewhere. This transformative project demonstrates the potential for community-led initiatives to create lasting change in under-resourced urban environments.