Segmento’s editor, Giovanni Butera, met with Dr. Franco Napoli, Vice President of CONFAPI (Confederazione Italiana della Piccola e Media Industria Privata), an association that has represented Italy’s small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) for over 60 years, with a membership of 100,000 businesses. Napoli talks about his inspirational career, illustrating how it embodies the resilience, cultural values, and ambition that SMEs contribute to Italy's economy.

Born in Toronto in 1970 to Italian emigrants, Franco Napoli grew up in a family that understood hard work and sacrifice. His parents, Michele and Ida, worked in factories during their time in Canada, embodying the perseverance and dedication that would become cornerstones of Franco’s character. At age five, the family returned to Italy, settling in Castiglione Cosentino and later moved to Rende, near Cosenza. Reflecting on this period, Napoli recalls, “It was a challenging time, a chapter of sacrifice that ultimately brought us back to our roots.”

From his grandfather, a WWII veteran and former vice mayor of Castiglione Cosentino, Napoli inherited both a passion for politics and a commitment to action. This legacy of civic responsibility not only inspired his own career path but also fuelled his later dedication to supporting Italian businesses.

At the University of Calabria, where Napoli graduated in 1997 with a degree in Philosophy, he embraced rigorous academic challenges while balancing work commitments. This experience cultivated in him skills that would prove invaluable in his career: critical thinking, problem-solving, and an ability to communicate effectively. Napoli’s immersion in the world of ideas shaped his worldview and instilled a lifelong appreciation for Italy's potential in a rapidly changing global landscape. As he recalls, “Studying philosophy gave me the tools to look at problems from different angles—something I later found essential in business.”

The late 1990s was a transformative period for Italy, as the country prepared to adopt the euro and new political dynamics emerged under the Prodi government. These changes highlighted the need for Italy’s economic sectors to adapt, with SMEs at the center of this transition.

Unlike many in his field, Napoli’s drive to support SMEs didn’t stem from a family business background but from a deeply held belief in the value of entrepreneurship and hard work. For him, SMEs are not merely businesses: they are cultural ambassadors, innovators, and the backbone of the Italian economy. As Vice President of CONFAPI, Napoli has emerged as a powerful voice for these enterprises, advocating for policies that promote growth, sustainability, and global engagement.

Napoli explains that CONFAPI’s mission extends beyond economic support; it aims to represent Italy’s industrious spirit and cultural heritage abroad. "Italian SMEs are ambassadors of our culture, values, and quality. Through CONFAPI, we can help these businesses strengthen their international presence and contribute to Italy’s cultural diplomacy.”

For Napoli, SMEs are vital to Italy’s cultural diplomacy efforts. From artisanal products to advanced manufacturing, SMEs showcase Italy’s rich heritage and innovative potential on the world stage. Through CONFAPI’s initiatives, Napoli has worked to promote Italian-made goods abroad, reinforcing Italy’s reputation for quality and creativity.

CONFAPI also collaborates with Italian trade and diplomatic missions to expand its influence in international markets. By positioning Italian SMEs at the forefront of economic diplomacy, CONFAPI plays a role in fostering partnerships that benefit not only Italian businesses but also global communities that value Italian expertise.

Napoli attributes much of his success to the values instilled by his mother, Ida. Her teachings on love, sacrifice, faith, and frugality continue to guide him. “My mother always told me, ‘Never waste food, especially bread.’ To her, bread symbolized the sacrifices made by parents for their children.” This principle, rooted in respect for family and hard work, is one Napoli carries into his professional life.

As a leader, Napoli emphasizes the importance of integrity, resilience, and empathy. He views his role at CONFAPI as not only an advocate for SMEs but also as a mentor, helping young entrepreneurs navigate the complexities of modern business. His background in philosophy has given him a thoughtful, strategic approach to leadership—one that values long-term impact over short-term gains.

Looking ahead, Napoli envisions CONFAPI as a bridge between Italy and international markets, enabling Italian SMEs to thrive on the global stage. By focusing on innovation, sustainable practices, and partnerships, Napoli believes that SMEs can drive Italy’s economy forward while preserving its cultural heritage. He is committed to expanding CONFAPI’s reach, ensuring it continues to provide essential resources, networking opportunities, and advocacy for SMEs across industries. “Our SMEs represent Italy’s past, present, and future. Through CONFAPI, we want to give them the tools they need to succeed both at home and abroad.”

Through his leadership at CONFAPI, Franco Napoli embodies the spirit of Italian enterprise, blending resilience, cultural pride, and forward-thinking strategies. His journey—from a child of emigrants in Toronto to an influential business leader in Italy—reflects the transformative power of dedication and hard work. Under his guidance, CONFAPI continues to be a vital force for SMEs, supporting their growth and reinforcing their role as cultural ambassadors for Italy worldwide.