Our Founder

David Clower, the Founder of Sicilia Bedda, is a dual citizen of the United States and México whose rich background spans Northwest Indiana, Silicon Valley, Provence (France), Central Texas, and New York City. He currently resides in Scottsdale, Arizona with his wife Paola Tatiana, who is of Italian and Peruvian descent, and their children. The Clower family divide their time between the United States and Sicily, maintain a residence in Isnello, and are deeply committed to the village, its historic center, and the Parco delle Madonie. David's diverse experiences have shaped his global outlook and led him to a profound appreciation for communities where craft, culture, and daily life are closely intertwined.

David has devoted his career to community development finance, aligning capital with place and championing initiatives that preserve historic integrity while strengthening local economies. He currently serves as President & CEO of the National Trust Community Investment Corporation (NTCIC), an impact investment asset management firm and subsidiary of the National Trust for Historic Preservation in Washington, DC; and he oversees National Trust Tours, connecting travelers to heritage sites worldwide. Through his family office, Desert Cove Ventures, David invests in various social enterprises. He also serves as Chairman of the Phoenix Conservatory of Music's Board of Directors.

David's philosophy on preservation centers on sustaining relationships, traditions, and economic vitality—making communities sustainable through long-term investment. He deeply values the friendship and trust extended by the people of Isnello and neighboring villages, where he aims to restore thoughtfully, act responsibly and respect Madonie traditions.

Beyond his leadership roles, David is a writer and cook whose experience working in upscale Italian restaurants as a young man instilled in him an enduring appreciation for quality, dedication, and respect for every contributor. This ethos shapes Sicilia Bedda's intentional, organic approach to restoration and is reflected in its collaborations with local tradespeople and hospitality offerings—all designed to foster genuine connections and memorable experiences that sustain the vibrancy and well-being of the Madonie region.

"Sicily isn't just a destination for me—it's a return to something real. It's the kind of place where time slows down, people still look you in the eye, and a simple meal can feel like a celebration of life. I fell in love with its beauty, yes—but even more with its humanity. The warmth, the pride, the traditions, and the way community still matters. Sicilia Bedda exists because I want others to experience that for themselves—not as tourists passing through, but as guests welcomed in, connected to the land, the people, and the joy of living a little more awake."

David Clower