CRAVE Italy S8 Episode 3 | Sergio Strozzi on Innovation, INNOVIT & Italy's Global Future

In this episode of CRAVE Italy, Host and Journalist Samantha Ferro interviews Sergio Strozzi, former Consul General of Italy in San Francisco and currently Head of Innovation, Technology, and Startups at the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The conversation explores the evolving intersection of diplomacy and innovation, and the growing role of "tech diplomacy" in shaping not only economic growth, but also a more inclusive and human-centered global society. Sergio reflects on his experience in the Bay Area and his role in strengthening the relationship between Italy and the United States, while contributing to a new narrative of Italy as a country of technology, research, and forward-looking innovation. The episode also examines the vision and impact of INNOVIT, the Italian Innovation and Culture Hub in San Francisco, and its expansion into a global network, with new initiatives in New York and India—marking a significant step in advancing Italy's international innovation ecosystem. Topics include: • The intersection of diplomacy and innovation • The vision, development, and global expansion of INNOVIT • Italy's role in the global innovation landscape • Balancing cultural heritage with technological progress • Strengthening international collaboration in startups and research • Reflections on San Francisco, Rome, and the global innovation environment • The importance of people, ideas, and human values in innovation www.craveshow.com Episode Sponsor: Poesia Italian Restaurant, San Francisco https://www.poesiacafesf.com/ In partnership with: Consulate General of Italy in San Francisco Italian Cultural Institute of San Francisco Host and Journalist: Samantha Ferro (wardrobe by Alice Becker)