Intesa Sanpaolo Strengthens Global Ties by Honoring 10 ‘Imprese Vincenti’ for International Excellence

Event Highlights Ten Innovative Companies

Cairo hosted the fifteenth edition of Imprese Vincenti, a program by Intesa Sanpaolo aimed at promoting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The event concluded the roadshow for its sixth edition, showcasing ten exemplary companies from Central and Eastern Europe and Egypt. These businesses were recognized for their innovative approaches, growth potential, and contributions to the development of international supply chains.

Strengthening International Supply Chains

Intesa Sanpaolo aims to enhance the value of “Made in Italy” globally by fostering synergies between its International Banks Division and Banca dei Territori Division. This initiative, led by Paola Papanicolaou and Stefano Barrese, seeks to attract foreign investment to Italy while supporting both Italian and international companies in becoming more competitive. The collaboration focuses on integrating production supply chains to bolster economic growth.

Diverse Representation Across Sectors

The event took place at Intesa Sanpaolo’s Gioia 22 skyscraper in Milan, featuring ten “Winning Companies” from eight countries. Notable representatives included:

• Italcostruzioni (Albania): Specializes in precision mechanical processing with a strong export focus.
• Aircash (Croatia): An innovative fintech firm transforming digital payment services.
• Salcef (Egypt): Engaged in sustainable mobility solutions and major infrastructure projects.
• Rekord (Romania): Recognized for excellence in manufacturing technical outdoor footwear.
• Diopta (Serbia): Developed a scalable business model in the optical sector.
• Agroitaly (Serbia): Focused on high-value agricultural products.
• Incom (Slovenia): A leading food industry company with a robust international strategy.
• Minit Slovakia: Transitioned from a family bakery to a European network.
• Prolan (Hungary): Develops railway automation and energy management solutions.
• Catone (Hungary): Established a logistics and production hub in Budapest for the agri-food sector.

These companies span various sectors, including food and beverage, high technology, advanced manufacturing, and infrastructure, all contributing to innovation and sustainability.

Insights from Leadership

Paola Papanicolaou, Chief of the International Banks Division, noted that the event reflects a structural geoeconomic trend of increasing integration between Italy and the regions represented. She emphasized the importance of building industrial connections, stating that collaboration across divisions and international presence are vital for supporting businesses in high-potential markets.

Stefano Barrese, Chief of the Banca dei Territori Division, highlighted the ongoing dialogue with communities and the value generated for the real economy. He mentioned that since 2020, Intesa Sanpaolo has provided over €138 billion in financing to SMEs, including significant amounts for sustainability projects. This commitment ensures that high-growth Italian companies remain central to the division’s strategy.

Comprehensive Support for SMEs

The Imprese Vincenti program offers ongoing support to selected companies throughout their business lifecycle. This includes investments in intangible assets such as intellectual property, research and development, and training. The focus remains on key growth pillars like international expansion, sustainability, and digital transition.

Economic Context and Future Opportunities

Intesa Sanpaolo’s International Banks Division operates in 12 countries, serving 7.4 million customers. The division’s presence is significant in Slovakia, Croatia, Serbia, Hungary, Slovenia, Romania, Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Moldova, Ukraine, the Czech Republic, and Egypt.

Since 2019, approximately 18,000 SMEs have applied to participate in the Imprese Vincenti program, with 150 companies selected for 2026 based on their contributions to economic value and social impact. Collectively, these companies employ around 150,000 people and generate approximately €35 billion in revenue.

A recent survey from Intesa Sanpaolo indicates that Eastern European markets are expected to present the best growth opportunities for Italian exports by 2026. Economies in Central and Eastern Europe and South-Eastern Europe are projected to experience average annual GDP growth exceeding 2.5%, driven by consumption and investment.

Partner Ecosystem

The Imprese Vincenti initiative collaborates with various partners, including Bain & Company, ELITE Euronext Group, Gambero Rosso, Cerved, Microsoft Italia, NATIVA, Circularity, Coldiretti, Digit’Ed, Tinexta, and AICCON. This ecosystem enhances the program’s effectiveness and reach.

For more information, visit the source.

Read all the latest developments and breaking updates in the Latest News section.

Published on 2026-06-16 12:57:00 • By the Editorial Desk