EURO 2025 Leeds
Abstract Submission

2856. Investment Attractiveness of Medium-Sized Italian Cities: A MAVT-Based rating model

Invited abstract in session WC-10: MCDA and urban planning 2, stream Multiple Criteria Decision Aiding.

Wednesday, 12:30-14:00
Room: Clarendon SR 1.06

Authors (first author is the speaker)

1. Marta DellOvo
Department of Architecture and Urban Studies, Politecnico of Milano
2. Federico Dell'Anna
Interuniversity Department of Regional and Urban Studies and Planning, Politecnico di Torino
3. Francesco Cosentino
Politecnico di Milano

Abstract

Cities have historically played a crucial role in driving regional and national development. Today, urban competitiveness increasingly depends on their ability to attract investments in key sectors. While significant cities dominate global rankings, Italian medium-sized towns are emerging as attractive alternatives due to balanced economic growth, lower real estate saturation, and expanding infrastructure. However, existing urban rankings often lack investment-oriented criteria and structured multi-criteria evaluation methods.
This study proposes a Multi-Attribute Value Theory (MAVT) -based rating model to assess the investment attractiveness of medium-sized Italian cities. The research follows a structured methodology: first, selecting relevant indicators validated through expert interviews; second, developing a framework to standardize, weigh, and aggregate data to ensure transparency and replicability. The model is tested on two case studies, Bologna and Catania, comparing their attractiveness based on a composite index.
Results highlight the model’s potential as a decision-support tool for investors and policymakers, offering a systematic comparison of cities' investment potential. The study has been conducted in collaboration with Gabetti Research Office, integrating academic insights with industry expertise.

Keywords

Status: accepted


Back to the list of papers