SMAU has officially launched its first edition in New York, marking a significant milestone in its mission to promote Italian innovation on the international stage. The event, organized by SMAU in collaboration with the Italian Trade Agency (ICE), follows the success of previous editions held in San Francisco and aims to strengthen connections between Italy’s innovation ecosystem and the U.S. market.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, Erica Di Giovancarlo, Director of ICE New York and Coordinator of the ICE Agency Network in the United States, described New York as a unique environment where capital, technology and talent converge. She emphasized that the event offers an opportunity to demonstrate how modern Italian excellence extends far beyond traditional sectors, encompassing cutting-edge solutions in artificial intelligence, healthcare, mobility and advanced manufacturing.
According to ICE representatives, the relationship between Italy and the United States is experiencing a particularly dynamic phase, with American imports of Italian high-tech products continuing to grow. Life sciences and biotechnology, in particular, have emerged as leading sectors, reflecting the increasing competitiveness of Italian companies in some of the most advanced areas of the global economy.
Giosafat Riganò, Director of ICE Los Angeles, noted that life sciences and biotechnology have become the top category of Italian exports to the United States for the first time, surpassing traditionally dominant sectors such as industrial machinery. He described the achievement as evidence of Italy’s growing reputation as an innovation hub capable of attracting interest from highly sophisticated international markets.
Valentina Sorgato, CEO of SMAU, highlighted the strategic importance of bringing the event to New York. She said the initiative is not simply about opening new markets, but about building long-term partnerships, attracting investment and creating opportunities for Italian companies to compete globally. By placing Italian innovators in direct contact with investors, corporations and industry leaders, SMAU New York aims to accelerate the growth and international impact of Italy’s technology ecosystem.