The study tour kicked off with an exploration of foundational concepts on family businesses, covering topics like definitions, debunking common myths, and understanding socio-emotional wealth. These early discussions, led by Professor Cristina Bettinelli and Associate Professor Emanuela Rondi, set the tone for the entire week, with participants engaging in vibrant conversations about sustainability, Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), and the unique challenges family businesses face in balancing tradition with innovation.

As the days progressed, the tour delved into more advanced topics such as governance within entrepreneurial families and how tradition can be a source of competitive advantage. Through these discussions, participants gained a deeper appreciation of how family values and long-standing practices can be harnessed to drive innovation and long-term success in their businesses.

A key highlight was the visit to Fra.Mar, one of the region’s oldest cleaning companies that is still a family business. Participants had the unique opportunity to engage in a dialogue with Francesco Maffeis, the founder and current family head; learning firsthand how a local business has successfully navigated international growth while preserving family unity.

On the final day, participants presented their group projects, synthesising all they had learned over the week. The discussions reflected the profound growth they experienced during the tour, and the closing remarks provided an opportunity to reflect on how these insights would impact their family businesses moving forward.

But the tour wasn’t all about formal learning. The afternoon offered participants a chance to unwind and celebrate the week’s achievements with a visit to the scenic Azienda Agricola Pagnoncelli Folcieri vineyard. A guided tour followed by wine tasting allowed participants to relax while further building connections with one another. The day concluded with a private Closing Dinner, where participants were awarded certificates of participation, bringing the tour to a memorable and heartfelt close.

One of the most rewarding outcomes of the Bergamo Study Tour was the opportunity it provided for distant family members to reconnect, grow, and learn together. The families used this time to strengthen relationships between generations, engaging in conversations about the future of their businesses in ways that would not have been possible at home. The unique setting of Bergamo, with its blend of history, culture, and modern innovation, served as the perfect backdrop for families to bond over shared values and goals.

As the Bergamo Study Tour concludes, it’s clear that the lessons learned and relationships built will leave a lasting impact. Participants return to their family businesses with a renewed sense of purpose, equipped with practical strategies and fresh perspectives on how to navigate the challenges of multi-generational leadership.

The success of the study tour reaffirms the importance of experiential learning and the power of connecting with peers from other family businesses. For many, it was more than just a study tour—it was a journey that transcended generations, laying the groundwork for continued growth and success in their family enterprises.