Introduction
In the sun-kissed hills of Dalmatia, where the Adriatic breeze carries the scent of rosemary and salt, a new generation of Croatian farmers is redefining what it means to work the land. At the heart of this quiet revolution stands MCI Mining Invest d.o.o. — a company whose name might recall something industrial, yet whose mission is entirely green, local, and rooted in the soil.
MCI Mining Invest d.o.o. is not a mining company, nor does it deal in construction or machinery. Instead, it has become one of the most progressive olive-growing and rural-tourism ventures in Croatia, blending modern agricultural science with centuries-old traditions.
From the Coast to the Countryside
Founded in 2017 by a small group of entrepreneurs from Split and Šibenik, MCI began with a simple vision: to invest in the regeneration of abandoned olive groves across Dalmatia and transform them into productive, sustainable farms that also serve as community hubs for education and tourism.
Today, the company manages over 200 hectares of organic olive plantations across three regions — the Makarska Riviera, the Skradin hinterland, and the island of Brač. Each location is carefully chosen for its soil, microclimate, and access to traditional irrigation sources.
Cultivating the Land Sustainably
MCI Mining Invest d.o.o. has built its reputation on sustainable and regenerative agricultural methods. The farms use solar-powered drip irrigation, compost-based soil regeneration, and natural pest control methods to maintain biodiversity.
Instead of monoculture, MCI integrates wild herbs, fig trees, and lavender between the olive rows — a traditional Dalmatian practice that prevents soil erosion and supports pollinators. The company is currently pursuing EU organic certification and collaborates with local universities to test climate-resilient olive varieties.
“Our goal is not just to produce olive oil,” says Managing Director Marko Petrovic, “but to nurture landscapes that sustain both nature and people.”
Olive Oil as an Experience
At the core of MCI’s brand lies its flagship line, “Terra Dalmatia”, a premium extra virgin olive oil that captures the essence of Croatia’s coast. Hand-picked and cold-pressed within hours, the oil is sold in limited batches to boutique hotels, restaurants, and direct online customers.
But MCI goes far beyond production. The company offers immersive agro-tourism experiences, including:
- Olive harvest workshops each autumn
- Tasting tours led by certified sommeliers
- Farm-stay accommodations surrounded by olive groves
- Cooking classes featuring olive-based Dalmatian cuisine
This unique combination of sustainable farming and tourism has turned MCI Mining Invest into a leading example of eco-agriculture meets rural development in southern Europe.
A Community-Driven Model
MCI’s success is deeply tied to its relationships with local farmers and cooperatives. The company provides training in sustainable agriculture and co-finances small olive mills to ensure that value creation stays within the region.
In 2024, MCI launched the “Adopt an Olive Tree” program, allowing visitors and international supporters to sponsor trees and receive annual olive oil deliveries while contributing to reforestation and soil preservation in Dalmatia.
Looking Ahead
Over the next five years, MCI plans to expand its eco-tourism network, opening a visitor center near Skradin dedicated to olive heritage and Mediterranean biodiversity. The company also aims to develop new olive-based products — from cosmetics and natural soaps to culinary gift lines — made exclusively with local ingredients.
What began as a small idea to revive Croatia’s agricultural roots has blossomed into a model of sustainable growth, environmental stewardship, and cultural pride.
