The visit of the delegation led by Governor Ron DeSantis to Italy marked a turning point in relations between Florida and Italy and will undoubtedly lead to strengthened economic and commercial collaboration.
For our Chamber of Commerce, this was an extremely important opportunity to reinforce connections with key Florida entities and state top officials, including Secretary of Commerce J. Alex Kelly , Secretary of State Cord Byrd , and Secretary of Transportation Jared Perdue.

Moreover, it was an occasion to establish direct contact and deepen relationships with Italian entities such us the Navigo Consortium, and to meet some of the Italian companies that participated in various meetings with Florida institutions and businesses.

IACCSE President Graziano Sbroggio and Executive Director Nevio Boccanera attended all the major meetings in Rome, Viareggio, and Florence, while IACCSE Vice President Claudio Da Soller escorted the Florida delegation for a visit to the Pininfarina factory and museum in Turin.
We would like to mention also IACCSE member Roberto Lottini of Genesis Interiors for leading the effort to bring the Governor and its delegation to visit the shipyards of Viareggio.

Our intention for the coming year is to organize various opportunities for meetings between Florida State leaders and Italian companies that create wealth and jobs in Florida as well as Italian companies willing to invest and create a solid presence in this State that if it were a country would represent the 15th largest economy of the world.

Last October 18, the IACCSE hosted in Miami its annual “Italian Business Community Night”. 

This premier brought together 230 guests among entrepreneurs and executives to explore the economic impact of major sporting events on Italy-U.S. relations and Miami’s development. Miami’s thriving Italian community of over 35,000 residents reflects the city’s growing international importance as well as Italian entrepreneurship’s increasing significance in the region.

We had the incredible privilege to have as keynote speaker Gianni Infantino, President of FIFA, who shared insights on the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the first to span three countries: the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Infantino highlighted the World Cup’s projected $10 billion GDP boost in the U.S. and its potential to create 10,000 jobs only in Miami, one of the host cities with seven matches planned.

The evening featured additional presentations by Hon. Silvia Marrara, head of the Sports Diplomacy Office at Italy’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and Nicolò Zini, Vice President of the Miami Host Committee for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Both emphasized how large sporting events drive economic growth. Marrara detailed Italy’s international event strategy, which includes global platforms like the Giro d’Italia and the Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics.

The evening was also the opportunity to recognize four members for their longstanding membership with the Chamber: Beghelli USA, Robert Allen Law, Chamber of Commerce of Genoa and Prime Line Distributors.

The IACCSE would like to acknowledge the companies who made this spectacular event possible:

First of all MDM Hotel Group for their invaluable support and their amazing culinary partnership with Massimo Bottura’s restaurant Torno Subito. 

Gold Sponsors: VALDO Spumanti, CMC Group, Clevertech North America 

Silver Sponsors: Barakat + Bossa, Florense USA, Giro d’Italia Ride Like a Pro-USA, JAS Worldwide, NDM Racing, O Munaciello USA, Robert Allen Law and Stemal Srl

We would also like to extend our gratitude to the Consulate General of Italy, Ruffino 1877, Acqua Panna- San Pellegrino for their precious collaboration. 

A special thank you goes out to all the members who donated products for our successful silent auction.

Finally thank you to all the attendees for their enthusiasm and support. We look forward to seeing you at the next edition of the Italian Business Community Night on October 24, 2025.

Last Sunday the Italy-America Chamber of Commerce Southeast-GEORGIA CHAPTER produced its first Annual Dinner Reception.

Representatives and executives from more than 45 companies and institutions gather in Atlanta at the historical Callanwolde mansion to celebrate, network and learn more about the upcoming 2025 program. 

Georgia is home to a substantial presence of Italian business interests, with approximately 100 subsidiaries of Italian companies operating within the state. These companies represent a diverse array of industries, including manufacturing, technology, fintech, logistics, design, hospitality and more. Their presence not only underscores the strong economic ties between Italy and Georgia but also significantly contributes to the state’s economic vitality and business diversity.

During the event, three outstanding individuals were honored for their exceptional contributions:

• Coryn Marsik (Georgia Department of Economic Development) presented the “Corporate Impact” award to Massimo Sapone (EssilorLuxottica) for his organization’s remarkable commitment to job creation, social responsibility, and fostering sustainable economic growth in Georgia and beyond.

• Ryan Kurtz (Miller and Martin) awarded Dr. Monica Rizzo the “Professional Excellence” recognition for her extraordinary dedication and expertise in surgical oncology. Over two decades of service in Atlanta, Dr. Rizzo has profoundly impacted countless lives, demonstrating compassionate care, exceptional skill, and a tireless commitment to medical innovation and patient recovery.

• Giorgio Carrera (FAE USA) presented the Lifetime Achievement Award to Mario Foah for his groundbreaking contributions to the promotion of Italian specialty foods in the United States. From pioneering the introduction of iconic products like balsamic vinegar and espresso machines to his leadership roles in the food industry, Foah’s lifelong dedication has elevated Italian gastronomy and paved the way for countless professionals in the culinary arts.

These awards celebrate the recipients’ unparalleled achievements, showcasing the vibrant connections between Italy and Georgia across diverse industries

Event’s sponsors include: FAE USA, FM Exhibits, Miller Martin, Palazzo di Varignana and Parmigiano Reggiano

The Italy-America Chamber of Commerce Southeast in collaboration with Piemonte Agency (https://www.centroestero.org/en/) the official trade agency of Piedmont region is organizing a trade mission to the industrial district of Borgomanero (between Milan and Turin) to discover the new collections of famous Italian bathroom fixtures manufacturers. The mission is a unique opportunity for international buyers to get in touch and doing business with a selection of Italian top-class suppliers showing their craftsmanship and high-quality products like faucets, taps, fittings, shower heads, shower arms, showers columns etc. during a two-day program of B2B meetings and visits to companies’ factories .

The IACCSE will offer this opportunity to five selected US buyers, including distributors and interior designers. 

The organizer will offer an ALL-INCLUSIVE BUYERS’ HOSPITALITY PROGRAM that includes:   

• Round-trip flight from a US airport to Milano Malpensa airport 
• Private airport/hotel transportation 
• Accommodation for 3-nights in the beautiful town of Arona on the shores of scenic Lake Maggiore 

If you are an importer/distributor/retailer of plumbing supplies, we are inviting you to consider this great opportunity to meet new Italian producers and explore potential partnerships for the future. 

Should you be interested in participating, please contact us at trade@iacc-miami.com no later than Monday August 26^th 2024. 

Cruise Ship Interiors Design Expo Americas (CSI) is the world’s only exhibition and conference exclusively dedicated to connecting the buyers and suppliers of the cruise design industry. Taking place annually at the Miami Beach Convention Center, the next edition is scheduled for June 3-4, 2025. This prestigious event will feature over 250 exhibitors specializing in furniture and furnishing materials for the cruise ship market.

CSI attracts a diverse audience of 3000 professionals, including interior designers, architects specializing in the naval sector, and interior design managers from major international cruise lines. Leading cruise brands such as Carnival Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean, Virgin Voyages, and MSC Cruises will be present, making it an unmissable event for those in the industry.

CSI also offers attendees the opportunity to discover the latest products and services from. The expertly curated Conference & Workshop Program will cover key topics such as upcoming trends and sustainability, featuring insights from industry leaders.

Thanks to an agreement signed with Cruise Ship Interiors, the Italy-America Chamber of Commerce Southeast will organize an Italian pavilion at the 2025 edition. This pavilion will include a pre-assembled stand and a series of networking activities, conferences, and seminars, providing valuable visibility to the participating Italian companies. The participation cost for a 10×10 feet stand starts at $8400. For more information and to register, please contact trade@iacc-miami.com and address your inquiries to Francesca Lodi.

Don’t miss this extraordinary opportunity to be part of the most important event in the cruise design industry. Join us at the Miami Beach Convention Center on June 3-4, 2025, for an event that promises to be both informative and inspiring.

Join us on October 18th, 2024, from 6 pm to 11 pm, for a fantastic night that will include a networking cocktail, live music, keynote speakers’ presentations, a delightful 4-course dinner presenting selected Italian food & wines, and an afterparty at the JW Marriott Miami, in the vibrant neighborhood of Brickell.

During the night the Chamber will recognize with the Pillar Award, its longstanding members.

In particular:

Over 200 business leaders are expected to join this year’s event.

Keynote speakers will talk about the rise of Miami as a sport capital of the world and how big sporting events, like the FIFA World Cup or the recurring Miami Open and Miami Grand Prix, will transform the city landscape and economy and what the opportunities are for Italian companies in this context.

This event is also an excellent opportunity for your company to have a wider exposure by becoming a sponsor. 

Sponsors receive exclusive benefits, such as 1 table for 8 guests, an exhibition space for marketing material and high-visibility recognition before and during the event, including a company presentation from the stage.

To download the official presentation of the event, click here: IBCN_presentation

To become a sponsor, download the sponsorship package here: IBCN_Sponsors_Package

Single tickets will be available starting from the end of August on Eventbrite

Priority will be given to event sponsors and their guests.

We look forward to seeing you on October 18th at the JW Marriott Miami in Brickell!

The Italy-America Chamber of Commerce Southeast is glad to announce that the process for the prestigious certification “Ospitalità Italiana – Ristoranti Italiani nel Mondo” will restart in summer 2024.

This certification serves as a seal of quality for Italian restaurants worldwide. Created by IS.NA.R.T. (Istituto Nazionale Ricerche Turistiche) and promoted by Unioncamere (the official organizazion of the Chambers of Commerce in Italy), the certification recognizes authentic Italian restaurants, pizza restaurants, and gelato shops globally.

The IACCSE will be responsible for certifying local restaurants in the Southeastern United States eligible for the “Marchio Ospitalità Italiana.”

Of course, priority will be given to restaurants members of our Chamber.

The “Marchio Ospitalità Italiana” aims to:

• Promote Italian Excellence: Develop and promote the traditions of Italian food products and enhance the culture of Italian food and wine.

• Ensure Quality: Improve the image of Italian restaurants abroad that guarantee respect of the quality standards of Italian hospitality.

• Build Global Network: Create an international network for the realization of promotional events showcasing Italian excellence.

Important Notice for Southeast USA Restaurants Previously Evaluated:

All restaurants certified between 2011 and 2017 in the Southeast USA must reapply for certification, as previous certifications have expired.

If you are eager to display the golden plaque with the “Q” sign outside your restaurant, reach out to us at membership@iacc-miami.com 

The Georgia Chapter of the IACCSE has recently reorganized its Executive Committee, which now consists of five well-respected entrepreneurs and professionals from the Atlanta area.

Emanuela Barzaghi, CEO of L&S Lighting Corp, will retain her position as Vice President of the IACCSE Georgia Chapter. She will be supported by four other committee members: Stefania Poli, COO of Omer USA Inc.; Filiberto Calascibetta, CPA & Partner of Rödl & Partner USA; Franco Rossi, President of Aquafil USA Inc.; and Giorgio Carrera, CEO of FAE US Inc.

The committee has appointed Mr. Nicola Vidali as Managing Director of the IACCSE- Georgia Chapter.  

Mr. Vidali brings over 35 years of experience leading various marketing and communication projects in the US. A resident of Atlanta since 1993, Nicola is deeply involved in educational, social, and civic initiatives. This appointment underscores the commitment of the Executive Committee to work for the development of a the Chapter in a state where the Italian business community has a strong  relevance.

Mr. Vidali will be supported by the Project Manager, Ms. Fabiana Calogero.

To contact the IACCSE Georgia Chapter, please send an email to atl@iaccse.com

After serving for more than seven years, President Tommaso Cardana has decided to step down with the conviction that he has fulfilled the primary objectives he set for the organization and to fully comply with the spirit of the new By-Laws of the Chamber that now establish a 6 years limit term for a President.

The leadership of the Italy-America Chamber of Commerce Southeast (IACCSE) passes to another distinguished Italian entrepreneur, Graziano Sbroggio’, founder and owner of Graspa Group, one of the most successful restaurants’ groups in South Florida.

Cardana will continue to serve as a Board member.

“This decision was not easy” stated Cardana. “Serving as the chamber’s president has been a tremendous honor and one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. I am proud of all we have achieved over the past years. I am confident that the Chamber will continue to flourish under Graziano Sbroggio’s leadership.”

During Mr. Cardana tenure as President, the IACCSE grew significantly reaching an historic milestone of more than 300 members, launched new and successful signature events, achieved positive financial results year after year, broadened its membership base across the Southeast with the opening of new chapters in major cities of the region, inaugurated a prestigious new office space in Brickell, and launched the Italian Lab project.

Graziano Sbroggio’ has been elected unanimously by the Board of Directors as new IACCSE President until the new board elections, that will take place in June 2025.

Mr. Sbroggio’ brings over 26 years of entrepreneurial experience, as he runs of one of Miami’s most successful restaurant groups. He has been a chamber member since the year 2000.

“I accepted this position because I believe in the crucial role the Chamber plays in connecting Italian and American businesses and in giving adequate representation to the Italian entrepreneurial community in the U.S. Southeast” said Sbroggio’ “Numerous presidents have led before me, each contributing uniquely to the chamber. I am honored to continue this legacy and I hope to have the support of as many people as possible, as a thriving organization is always the result of a collective effort”.

Following this leadership transition, the IACCSE Board of Directors is as follows: Mr. Graziano Sbroggio, (Owner of Graspa Group) – President; Mr. Claudio da Soller, (Senior Vice President and General Manager at Pininfarina of America Corp) – Executive Vice-President; Mrs. Dania Maccaferri, (CEO of Beghelli North America) – Vice President; Mr. Giacomo Bossa, (partner at Barakat + Bossa) – Secretary; Mr. Alberto Portolani, CEO of Neri North America Corp – Treasurer; with Mr. Costantino Cicchelli, CEO at Barba Skin Clinic, Mr. Gianluca Fontani, President of Man-Super!, Mr. Antonello Corrado, Partner of EXP Legal, Ms. Stefania Poli, COO of Omer USA, Mr. Fernando Rodriguez, Executive Vice President of A Custom Brokerage, and Tommaso Cardana, President of Tomson Hospitality, serving as Directors.

Mr. Graziano Sbroggio’

Mr. Tommaso Cardana