Lazio named Region of Honor NIAF 2025
Lazio "Regione d'Onore 2025" della National Italian American Foundation (NIAF)
The National Italian American Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting Italian American heritage and strengthening the cultural and political ties between the United States and Italy. It has chosen Lazio as its Region of Honor for 2025 — a Jubilee year that also marks the Foundation’s 50th anniversary.
The announcement was made during a joint press conference at the Lazio Region headquarters, attended by President of Lazio Region Francesco Rocca, Vice President Roberta Angelilli, NIAF President Robert Allegrini, and Amedeo Teti from Italy’s Ministry of Enterprises and Made in Italy.
A Strategic Mission to the United States
As part of the Region of Honor program, the Lazio Region will be in New York from April 8 to 10 for a series of key meetings and events.
The mission will spotlight some of Lazio’s most innovative companies in pharmaceuticals, sustainable tech, and airport management, with the goal of building new partnerships and opening doors to future opportunities.
Leading the delegation is President of Lazio Region Francesco Rocca, joined by Vice President Roberta Angelilli, and Rome Chamber of Commerce President Lorenzo Tagliavanti — a key partner in the initiative.
The packed agenda includes visits to Yale University, the Connecticut Innovation Center, New Lab in Brooklyn, the Brooklyn Navy Yard, and NASDAQ. The mission wraps up with the NIAF Spring Gala at the Cipriani Hotel, where the Lazio delegation will connect with over 700 leaders from New York’s business, academic, and cultural sectors.
It’s also an international stage for 20 cutting-edge startups and SMEs from Lazio — working in Aerospace, Energy, and Artificial Intelligence — selected through a Lazio Innova public call to join the mission.
What does it mean to be the "Region of Honor"
This recognition enhances the visibility of Lazio’s excellence in the U.S. market by fostering business growth, promoting the “Made in Lazio” brand, strengthening strategic partnerships, and attracting new investments.
This recognition will foster cultural interconnections, events, and networking opportunities centered on innovation, supporting the competitiveness of startups and SMEs while encouraging new collaborations through direct dialogue.
Francesco Rocca, President of Lazio Region
«This collaboration is a great opportunity to showcase the countless wonders of the Lazio Region, along with the productive activities and companies that will join us on this exceptional journey».
Robert Allegrini, NIAF President
«NIAF is honored to celebrate the extraordinary Lazio region during this landmark year. From its rich historical legacy to its vibrant modern culture, Lazio represents the very essence of Italian excellence».