Fondazione Franco Demarchi: Company Profile

Background

Established in 2013 as an evolution of the Regional Institute for Social Studies and Research, the Fondazione Franco Demarchi is an instrumental entity of the Autonomous Province of Trento, Italy. The foundation is dedicated to promoting and implementing training and research in the social, educational, and cultural sectors, aiming to benefit local communities and support the development of competencies among operators and citizens.

Key Strategic Focus

The foundation operates in several key areas:

• Welfare, Community, and Citizenship: Developing and implementing innovative solutions through research, planning, and training processes.

• Research and Evaluation: Conducting studies and evaluations to inform social policies and community development.

• Recognition and Development of Competencies: Focusing on adult education and the recognition of non-formal and informal learning experiences.

• Adult Education: Promoting lifelong learning and personal development among adults.

Financials and Funding

In 2024, the foundation reported a positive financial performance with a net profit of €1,277, aligning with its non-profit status. There was an increase in revenues from its own activities, reinforcing its role in the Trentino system, particularly in areas such as active aging, shared administration, mountain welfare, youth and family policies, and the University of the Third Age and Available Time (UTETD) project.

Pipeline Development

The foundation is actively involved in various projects aimed at social innovation and community development. Notably, it has been a partner in the TOGeThER project, which focuses on technology and social housing to support individuals with disabilities. This project is co-financed by the Caritro Foundation and involves collaboration with several entities, including the Autonomous Province of Trento and the Municipality of Pergine.

Technological Platform and Innovation

The foundation leverages various technological platforms and methodologies to support its initiatives:

• Research and Evaluation: Utilizing research-action approaches to inform social policies and community development.

• Adult Education: Implementing lifelong learning programs that recognize non-formal and informal learning experiences.

• Cultural Activities: Organizing workshops, conferences, and exhibitions to promote social well-being and cultural engagement.

Leadership Team and Changes

The current leadership team of the Fondazione Franco Demarchi (2025-2028) includes:

• Paolo Decarli: President. An engineer specializing in environment and energy, Decarli has previously served on the boards of Patrimonio del Trentino S.p.A. and Dolomiti Energia Holding.

• Francesca Gennai: Vice President. President of the La Coccinella Cooperative and the Con.Solida Consortium, Gennai has been involved with the foundation since 2019.

• Sabrina Redolfi: Board Member.

• Sara Martinatti: Board Member.

• Flaviano Zandonai: Board Member.

In January 2025, the foundation appointed this new Board of Directors, with the leadership aimed at strengthening the foundation's role in research, training, and welfare, with a focus on active aging, shared administration, mountain welfare, youth and family policies, and the UTETD project.

Market Insights and Competitor Analysis

The social innovation and community development sector in Trentino is characterized by a collaborative environment, with various entities working together to address social challenges. The market is dynamic, with a focus on active aging, shared administration, mountain welfare, and youth and family policies.

Key competitors in this sector include:

• DolomitiLab Srl Impresa Sociale: A social enterprise focusing on community development and social innovation.

• Oriente Occidente: A cultural organization supported by various institutions, including the Fondazione Franco Demarchi.

These organizations compete and collaborate in areas such as social innovation, community development, and cultural promotion.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

The foundation collaborates with various institutions and organizations to enhance its impact:

• Fondazione Caritro: Co-financed the TOGeThER project, focusing on technology and social housing for individuals with disabilities.

• Oriente Occidente: A cultural organization supported by the foundation, contributing to cultural initiatives in the region.

Operational Insights

The foundation's strategic considerations include:

• Collaboration: Working closely with institutional partners to address social challenges.

• Innovation: Implementing innovative solutions in social welfare and community development.

• Community Engagement: Fostering active participation from citizens and local organizations.

Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions

The foundation aims to:

• Expand its Network: Strengthen collaborations with institutional partners and local entities.

• Enhance Research: Focus on research to inform social policies and community development.

• Promote Lifelong Learning: Continue to support adult education and the recognition of non-formal and informal learning experiences.

Contact Information

• Website: www.fdemarchi.it

• Social Media: Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, X (formerly Twitter), LinkedIn