SAN FELICE DEL BENACO, ITALY —
On Friday, October 17, the serene shores of Lake Garda served as the backdrop for a moment of meaningful international engagement. A distinguished delegation from the Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce in Georgia, USA, visited the MAGI Group headquarters in San Felice del Benaco, marking a significant milestone in the growing transatlantic collaboration between Italy and the United States in the fields of biomedical research, innovation, and entrepreneurship.
The occasion celebrated the expanding partnership between MAGI Group, a premier Italian biomedical research center, and MAGISNAT, its American affiliate based at Atlanta Tech Park in Peachtree Corners, Georgia. Together, these organizations are forging a dynamic alliance that bridges scientific excellence, business leadership, and shared values across continents.
A Transatlantic Bridge for Biomedical Innovation
This unique partnership has been championed by Dr. Matteo Bertelli, founder and president of both MAGI Group and MAGISNAT. With a clear vision for integrating European research expertise with American innovation ecosystems, Dr. Bertelli has positioned MAGISNAT at the intersection of cutting-edge science and global collaboration.
“MAGISNAT is a meeting point for ideas, innovation, and international cooperation,” said Dr. Bertelli. “Our goal is to advance health and well-being through science that is accessible, collaborative, and impactful — both in Italy and the United States.”
MAGISNAT’s U.S.-based team includes Dr. Kevin Donato, a chemist with a PhD in Translational Medicine from the University of Milan, and Dr. Kristiana Dhuli, a specialist in metabolic biochemistry and nutrigenomics. Together, they are driving forward research in genetics, personalized medicine, and nutraceutical development, while actively engaging with American universities, research institutions, and private sector partners.
The Gwinnett Chamber: Advancing Global Connectivity
The American delegation was led by Nick Masino, President and CEO of the Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce. Under his leadership, the Chamber has emerged as one of the most globally connected economic development organizations in the United States, committed to fostering international partnerships that promote innovation, investment, and community growth.
“What we are witnessing here is a model of how local innovation can catalyze global impact,” Masino stated. “By connecting communities like Peachtree Corners and San Felice del Benaco, we’re opening doors to scientific collaboration, business development, and cross-cultural understanding.”
The Chamber’s commitment to international engagement reflects its broader strategy of building sustainable relationships that benefit local economies while contributing to global progress.
Scientific Leadership at MAGI’s Biomedical Research Center
A highlight of the visit was a tour of the MAGI Biomedical Research Center, where the Gwinnett delegation met with the scientific team leading pioneering studies in human genetics, molecular pharmacology, and personalized health technologies.
Among the researchers presenting their work:
- Dr. Gabriele Bonetti, PhD in Pharmacology, expert in genetic therapy and molecular pharmacology;
- Dr. Immacolata De Luca, PhD in Chemistry, specializing in molecular diagnostics and analytical methods;
- Alessandro Macchia, biologist and PhD candidate in Biotechnology at the University of Siena, with a focus on bioinformatics and molecular biology;
- Luca Ferrari, data scientist and PhD student in Pharmacology at the University of Perugia, developing computational models for biomedical research.
In addition to its core team, MAGI hosts a growing number of international researchers, reflecting the center’s commitment to fostering a globally inclusive scientific environment. The exchange of ideas during the visit included discussions on potential joint initiatives with U.S. academic institutions, biotech firms, and investors — all aligned with a shared vision of advancing preventative medicine and personalized care.
A Community Rooted in Tradition, Committed to Innovation
The delegation was warmly received by Mayor Marzia Manovali of San Felice del Benaco, who welcomed the visitors on behalf of the local community. In her remarks, she underscored the town’s deep respect for both tradition and forward-looking innovation, noting the pride felt by residents in Dr. Bertelli’s contributions to global science and entrepreneurship.
San Felice del Benaco, with its historic charm and spirit of openness, provided a fitting setting for the day’s exchanges — a reminder that even small communities can have a significant global footprint.
Celebrating Heritage, Inspiring the Future
The day concluded with a visit to the Rocca di Manerba del Garda, a site rich in cultural and historical significance. As the delegation explored the panoramic views and ancient architecture, the experience highlighted the enduring connection between heritage and progress.
Yet beyond the cultural appreciation, the visit stood as a powerful statement of purpose — a commitment to collaboration that transcends borders. The partnership among MAGI Group, MAGISNAT, and the Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce exemplifies the potential of global cooperation rooted in mutual respect, shared goals, and a belief in the power of science to improve lives.
From the laboratories of San Felice del Benaco to the innovation corridors of Georgia, this alliance represents more than a partnership — it is a vision for the future of healthcare, knowledge exchange, and community-driven innovation.
As the sun set over Lake Garda, a deeper bond emerged — one built not just on agreements, but on trust, purpose, and a shared dedication to building a healthier, more connected world.
