Hosted by Rome City Institute and under the patronage of the City of Rome, the Forum brought together businesses, institutions, and universities to strengthen ties between Italy and the United States through sport, innovation, and education.
The fourth edition of the Business Forum organized by the Italian Federation of American Football (FIDAF) in collaboration with RGP Northwestern Ohio and Jobs Ohio, was a resounding success. Held on Monday, May 5 at the brand-new headquarters of the Rome City Institute, the event welcomed Italian and American institutions, companies, and universities with the shared goal of promoting synergies between sport, business, and academia.
Although Nick Eyde was unable to attend due to personal reasons, Paul Zito (Vice President of International Development at RGP Northwest Ohio/Jobs Ohio) and Lou Tosi (Partner at the law firm Shumaker, Loop & Kendrick and representative of the University of Toledo) presented investment opportunities in the Toledo area and the state of Ohio—especially in light of the upcoming XLIV Italian Bowl, which will be played on June 28 at the prestigious Glass Bowl Stadium at the University of Toledo.
The Forum also marked the official launch of the Center for Sports, Diplomacy and Innovation (CSDI), the first research center of its kind in Italy dedicated to sports diplomacy and innovation. The CSDI will work with leading figures from academia, economics, and politics at an international level.
During the second panel, Antonio Cincotta (Executive Director of Rome City Institute) and Valerio Mancini (Scientific Director of the new center) shared the CSDI’s vision and goals, highlighting the importance of global cooperation in tackling future challenges through sport.
One of the most appreciated contributions came from Raffaello Pellegrini, CEO of Naturhouse and current General Manager of Aquile Ferrara (IFL). A former American football and flag football player and coach, Pellegrini spoke about his company and how competitive sports played a key role in his personal and professional development.
Also attending the event was Dr. Massimiliano Brocchi from CONI Lazio, who joined many professionals, business representatives, and students of the Rome City Institute—a long-time FIDAF partner that co-organized Italy’s first-ever football draft in November. Representing the Federation were federal board members Manfredi Leone, Edoardo Cammi, and Fabio Tortosa, as well as Fabrizio Cupellini (FIDAF Lazio Regional Delegate) and Fabio Pacelli (President of the Lazio Marines).
A dynamic, interactive event filled with insights, the Forum further strengthened the connection between Italy and the United States and laid the foundation for future collaborations in sports, academia, and entrepreneurship.
📷 Photo credits: Rome City Institute
