The second day of Horizon Days 2026, held on May 21 at Palazzo Falconieri — headquarters of the Hungarian Academy in Rome — brought together institutional representatives, European bodies and international companies for a high-level discussion focused on internationalization, investment strategies and sustainable industrial development.
The initiative, promoted by Dr. Mario Moretti, Founder and Board Member of Horizon Consulting Network and Senior Managing Partner of Horizon Consulting Italy, forms part of a broader strategic pathway aimed at strengthening relations between the network and the European diplomatic system, with particular emphasis on international economic cooperation processes and financial instruments supporting investments across Europe.
The proceedings were opened by Dr. Márk Aurél Érszegi, Director of the Hungarian Academy in Rome, followed by the institutional address of H.E. Andor Ferenc Dávid, Ambassador of Hungary to Italy. Representing Horizon Consulting Network, Attorney Alessandro Ferri, President of the network, delivered the organization’s opening remarks, while the presentation of the agenda was entrusted to Attorney Paolo Di Franco, Resident Partner of Horizon Consulting Hungary.
During the session dedicated to European financial instruments for internationalization, Dr. Guido Vezzani, Loan Officer at the European Investment Bank – Financial Institutions Western Europe Department – illustrated the role of the European Investment Bank in supporting international investments and facilitating the growth trajectories of European companies, highlighting the opportunities available through EU financial instruments and funding mechanisms.
Significant attention was also devoted to local institutional support for international investments. Dr. Dora Zakar, Economic and Commercial Counsellor at the Embassy of Hungary in Rome and moderator of the meeting, explored the role of economic cooperation between Italy and Hungary, while Dr. Riccardo Scarpulla, Executive at the Investment Attraction and Unlocking Unit of the Italian Ministry of Enterprises and Made in Italy, outlined Italy’s strategic policies aimed at attracting capital inflows and fostering industrial development.
The session dedicated to case studies spotlighted several development projects in the biomedical and sustainable mobility sectors, both considered strategic pillars for Europe’s future competitiveness.
Dr. Raffaella Fonda, Director of B-Sanità, presented the keynote speech entitled “European Healthcare and the Healthcare Industry: A Strategic Dialogue on Innovation, Accessibility and Sustainability”, focusing on the integration prospects between research, healthcare innovation and the long-term sustainability of European healthcare systems.
Dr. Furio Pradella, CEO of Pradella Sistemi S.r.l., illustrated the industrial opportunities arising from the transition toward sustainable mobility models and the adoption of new technologies within the sector.
The session concluded with a further contribution by Attorney Paolo Di Franco, who provided an in-depth overview of the Hungarian experience in the biomedical and sustainable mobility sectors, highlighting international cooperation opportunities and the development models adopted by the country in high-innovation industries.
The event concluded with a networking session and light lunch, fostering dialogue and business exchange among companies, institutions and economic stakeholders in attendance.
Horizon Consulting Network thereby reaffirms its role as an international strategic interlocutor capable of fostering connections among businesses, institutions and investors, creating new opportunities for economic growth, innovation and European integration.
