Sunday the Italy-America Chamber of Commerce -GA 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.
With a population of over 10 million and a GDP exceeding $600 billion, Georgia is one of the largest economies in the United States. Atlanta, the state’s capital, is home to seventeen Fortune 500 companies, including Home Depot, UPS, Coca-Cola, Intercontinental, Global Payments, and Delta Airlines. As a global city, Atlanta has experienced significant and constant growth for the last 40years.
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.
In the manufacturing sector, Italian companies bring advanced technologies and innovative practices, enhancing local production capabilities and creating high-quality jobs. In the realm of technology and fintech, these companies are at the forefront of developing cutting-edge solutions, driving innovation, and fostering a dynamic tech ecosystem in Georgia. Logistics companies from Italy play a crucial role in optimizing supply chains and improving efficiency, thereby supporting Georgia’s status as a major transportation hub. The design industry benefits from Italian companies’ renowned expertise and creativity, influencing trends and elevating the quality of design services and products available in the state. Atlanta is also home to many distinguished Italian researchers and professors working in private and public academic settings.
At the opening of the evening, Honorary Consul Filiberto Calascibetta welcomed the guests on behalf of the Consulate General in Miami. He shared updates on the enhancement of consular services to benefit the Italian community in Georgia, including significant support for fellow citizens who, for several years now, have had the opportunity to renew their passports directly in Atlanta.
During the event 3 individuals were awarded: Coryn Marsik (Georgia Department of Economic Development) awarded Massimo Sapone (Essilorluxottica) for the category “Corporate Impact”; Ryan Kurtz (Miller and Martin) awarded Dr. Monica Rizzo for the category “Professional Excellence” and Giorgio Carrera (FAE USA) awarded Mario Foah for his incredible lifetime achievements in the specialty food industry. Here are the three rationales:
ESSILORLUXOTTICA – MR. MASSIMO SAPONE: This Company has been honored for its exceptional contribution to job creation and social responsibility within the State of Georgia and beyond. This award celebrates their unwavering dedication to fostering inclusive economic growth and supporting sustainable development while also empowering individuals with confidence and pathways to successful careers.
Dr. MONICA RIZZO: This individual has been honored for her extraordinary dedication, skill, and compassionate service in the field of surgical oncology in Atlanta, where for more than 2 decades she had a profound impact in saving the lives of countless individuals affected by tumors. This award acknowledges her exceptional expertise and tireless commitment to medical excellence, patient care, ensuring not only the removal of malignancy but also promoting optimal recovery and post-surgical outcomes for her patients.She represents just the tip of the iceberg in a constantly growing wave of Italian scientific professionals making significant contributions in both the private and public sectors of the United States.
MR. MARIO FOAH: We are honoring this individual for his Lifetime Achievement and his unparalleled contribution to the promotion of Italian food excellence in the United States. He pioneered the introduction of Italian specialty foods into the U.S., beginning in 1952. The popularity of balsamic vinegar, sundried tomatoes, and even espresso machines are the result of his commitment to Italian tradition. His work has not only championed the import and prominence of high-quality Italian products but has also paved the way for countless chefs, sommeliers, and restaurateurs to build careers centered on Italian gastronomy.He served as Board Chair for the Specialty Food Association/NASFT, and he has also been the Executive Director of the Italy America Chamber of Commerce of New York.
Event’s sponsors include: Palazzo di Varignana, Parmiggiano Reggiano and FM Exhibits.
