Italy on the Move Unites Leaders in Biotech and Pharma at JPM Week 2026

Italy on the Move: A Gateway to Transatlantic Biotech Collaboration

In January 2026, more than 200 influential figures from Italy and the United States convened in San Francisco for the ninth iteration of "Italy on the Move." This event, strategically scheduled alongside JPM Week, serves as a crucial platform for enriching transatlantic dialogue focused on life sciences, biotechnology, and investment opportunities. The initiative is orchestrated by the Italian Trade Agency, working in alliance with several key partners, including the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation and the Ministry of Enterprises and Made in Italy.

As the healthcare landscape continues to evolve, Italy on the Move has emerged as a pivotal event aimed at bolstering collaboration between Italian and American entities. The venue for the gathering was the INNOVIT – Italian Innovation and Culture Hub in San Francisco, symbolizing a melting pot of ideas and innovation. This annual event is not just a networking opportunity; it aligns perfectly with the broader goals of enhancing visibility for Italian biotech companies on the global stage.

The program commenced with a warm welcome from Massimo Carnelos, the Consul General of Italy, who emphasized the importance of this collaboration in fostering new avenues for growth and partnership. Following him, Sergio Strozzi, Head of Innovation, Technology, and Startups at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, set the tone by discussing the unique characteristics of Italy's life sciences ecosystem. His insights were augmented by a video message from Augusto Reggiani, highlighting the government’s role in attracting foreign direct investments to Italy.

The event featured a robust discussion led by Erica Di Giovancarlo, Trade Commissioner of the ITA New York Office. This segment focused on the essential support mechanisms available for companies aiming to penetrate the Italian market. An influential panel discussion titled "Invest in Innovation: The Italian Life Science Momentum" was moderated by David Whelan, who guided conversations around trends and opportunities in the biotech sector. Esteemed industry leaders, including Lucia Faccio (CEO, Genespire) and Mario Scuderi (Senior Partner, CDP Venture Capital), shared invaluable insights, sparking dynamic exchanges of innovative ideas.

A noteworthy feature of the event was a pitch session that allowed pioneering biotech firms to showcase their projects to a captivated audience. Notable participants included Luca Emili (Chairman, InSilicoTrials Technologies) and Massimiliano Clamer, PhD (Chairman, Immagina Biotechnology). These presentations not only highlighted cutting-edge innovations but also provided critical networking opportunities amongst industry leaders and investors, crucial for fostering future collaborations.

Economic indicators underscore the significant role that Italy's life sciences sector plays in the national economy. With over €237 billion in annual turnover—nearly 10% of Italy’s GDP—this sector employs about 1.8 million people. The biotech industry alone reached a turnover exceeding €47.5 billion by 2024, marking a substantial contribution to the national income and illustrating the potential for further growth through international collaboration. The pharmaceutical sector's production value was close to €56 billion, with exports reaching an impressive €54 billion that same year, signifying a robust and expanding export-oriented industry.

At the heart of Italy on the Move lies the commitment to continuous improvement and innovation, fostering a collaborative spirit that resonates across the Atlantic. By uniting stakeholders from both regions, the event aims to pave the way for new partnerships that not only benefit individual companies but also contribute to the broader health ecosystem on an international scale.

As the conference concluded, it was clear that Italy on the Move has solidified its status as a foundational element in the global biotech dialogue, facilitating the growth and expansion of life sciences in both Italy and the US. The success of this year’s event sets a strong precedent for future gatherings, heralding a new era of cooperation that extends beyond borders and industry silos.