Taimak Guarriello Joins Forces With Italian Startup Ruralis To Support Rural Tourism And Social Innovation

Associated Press

09-04-2025

The star of 'The Last Dragon' backs the U.S. expansion of a startup connecting local property owners and overlooked regions with global travelers
United States, April 9, 2025 -- Taimak Guarriello, best known for his iconic role in the 1980s cult film The Last Dragon, has announced his support for Ruralis, an Italian startup specializing in short term rental management and sustainable tourism in rural areas. His involvement coincides with the company's first U.S. equity crowdfunding campaign, now live on Wefunder.
Taimak's connection to Ruralis began with a personal story. 'My father came from a small village in Southern Italy, a place I recall just from my childhood memories. Got lost with that connection and moved over with my life. Then, one day in New York, I met Nic – a guy from the same region where my father was born! I liked the guy, and that's how I became his mentor.'
That 'Nic' is Nicolas Verderosa, founder and CEO of Ruralis, who left New York to return to Italy and build a business in the same region where innovation seems to have stopped. 'Nic moved back to Italy because he saw the untapped potential in his roots. He founded Ruralis, a company helping property owners thrive, redefining tourism, and revitalizing rural communities.'
Taimak has closely followed Nicolas's journey, visiting Italy, meeting his family, and witnessing the work of Ruralis on the ground. 'I've known Nic for a while now, and from mentoring him, I quickly realized he thinks outside the box – something many young entrepreneurs could learn from. When he launched Ruralis, I had already visited Italy, spent time with his family, and seen firsthand the beauty of its rural regions.'
What sets Ruralis apart is its commitment to promoting tourism beyond the usual urban hotspots. 'Ruralis takes a different approach, promoting tourism beyond the big cities. I'm no expert in short-term rentals, but Nic shared his vision with me – one that isn't about empowering property owners in New York City or Rome, but supporting those in surrounding areas where opportunities are scarce.'
After establishing a solid presence in Italy, where in three years - starting in bootstrapping with 0 investment - it has managed to generate $1.55 million in revenue with over 300 properties managed nationwide and over 27 thousand tourists accommodated in its managed properties, Ruralis is now preparing to expand its model in the United States.
Taimak's involvement as both a mentor and investor plays a key role in this next phase. 'Things are working out for them in Italy, and now they're bringing their vision to the U.S.! I'm here to champion their story – a journey of success, resilience, and defying the odds. That's why I'm proud to stand with them in their first U.S. crowdfunding campaign. As a mentor, as a friend, and as someone who knows they are serious about this!'
Guarriello closes with a direct message to those following the journey: 'So check out their campaign, spread the word, and let's help Ruralis grow. Because when rural communities win, we all win.'
Contact Info:
Name: Nicolas Verderosa (CEO)
Email: Send Email
Organization: Ruralis