GOEL is a prominent Italian social enterprise group operating in the Calabria region, founded in 2003. It is widely recognized for its commitment to promoting social justice, economic sustainability, and community development, particularly in areas challenged by organized crime, poverty, and systemic inequality. GOEL takes a multi-faceted approach, integrating ethical business practices, social innovation, and cultural transformation.

Operating in the territory known as Locride, one of the poorest areas of Calabria, and the one where the ‘Ndrangheta was born. Its mission was – and still is - systemic change in Calabria. GOEL has developed into a cooperative group, which works as a mutual system, which explains its capacity for affirmation and resistance to the ‘Ndrangheta. GOEL has strong roots in the local community and has become an ethical model of sustainable development and social cohesion, restoring a sense of hope in civil society – for many, the only one in Calabria.

GOEL is an economic network of twelve social co-operatives, two farmers’ cooperatives, two voluntary service organisations, a small foundation and twenty-eight companies with about 350 staff members.

1. Mission and Values: 
GOEL's primary mission is to create a fair and inclusive economy by supporting local communities and promoting ethical practices. Its values are rooted in solidarity, transparency, environmental sustainability, and opposition to exploitation and organized crime (notably the 'Ndrangheta, the dominant mafia in Calabria). 

2. Economic Activities: 
GOEL operates through a network of cooperatives and social enterprises, engaging in various sectors, including: 

• Organic and Ethical Agriculture: Through GOEL Bio, the organization supports farmers who commit to organic and sustainable farming while standing against mafia intimidation.
• Tourism and Hospitality: I Viaggi del GOEL promotes ethical and sustainable tourism, showcasing Calabria's cultural and natural heritage.
• Fashion and Craftsmanship: Cangiari, GOEL's fashion brand, blends traditional Calabrian weaving techniques with modern design, emphasizing ethical labor practices and high-quality craftsmanship.

3. Social Impact: 
GOEL actively works to empower marginalized communities, providing employment opportunities and fostering economic alternatives to criminal systems. It also engages in education and advocacy to promote civic responsibility and resist corruption. 

4. Cultural and Social Innovation: 
GOEL seeks to redefine societal norms in Calabria by emphasizing a culture of legality, respect for human rights, and ecological stewardship. Its projects often involve partnerships with schools, local governments, and civil society organizations to amplify their impact. 

5. Anti-Mafia Commitment: 
A core element of GOEL's identity is its stance against organized crime. It supports individuals and businesses who resist mafia extortion and threats, creating a network of solidarity to protect and uplift those at risk.

GOEL has carried out a very complex strategy in recent years, because any process of systemic change is naturally complicated. It has acted in many areas at the same time: entrepreneurship, social dynamics, culture, public communication, environmental sustainability, social cohesion, politics, democracy, and organisational development.

GOEL’s democratic and participatory network utilizes a bottom-up, multi-stakeholder methodology that integrates diverse skills and sectors into a unified strategy for transformative change, positioning GOEL as one of the region’s most forward-thinking initiatives.

The aim is to create a 'miniature model' of what the Calabrian development paradigm can be, demonstrating how it can create growth and employment in different sectors and areas. Get inspired by GOEL’s manifesto yourself.