ARTFEED — Contemporary Art Intelligence

Community Valore Cultura launched to measure private cultural institutions' impact in Italy

institutional · 2026-04-26

In Italy, the Community Valore Cultura initiative has been established to acknowledge the contributions of private cultural institutions to both the economy and society. Backed by THEA Group and various foundations, the project seeks to assess the social and economic effects of cultural endeavors. These private entities represent 35% of the nation’s cultural landscape and draw over 30 million visitors each year. The network is vibrant, with 53% located in Northern Italy; 54% operate more than four days weekly, and 53% provide educational programs. Under the guidance of Professor Mario Abis from IULM University, a social and economic impact index is being created, with notable satisfaction levels. Prominent figures involved include Giovanna Forlanelli, Andrea Zanotti, Diana Bracco, Dominique Rimbaud, and Marina Nissim.

Key facts

  • Community Valore Cultura launched by THEA Group with five foundations
  • Over 1,500 private cultural institutions open to public in Italy
  • Private sector represents 35% of national cultural offering
  • More than 30 million annual visitors, over one-third from abroad
  • 53% of institutions in Northern Italy, active in all regions
  • 54% open more than four days a week, 53% offer educational activities
  • Nearly one in five promotes online training events
  • Impact index developed under supervision of Professor Mario Abis (IULM University)
  • Survey of over 500 participants: average satisfaction 8.7/10
  • 82% would repeat experience, 95% would recommend it

Entities

Institutions

  • THEA Group
  • Fondazione Biscozzi Rimbaud
  • Fondazione Bracco
  • Fondazione Elpis
  • Fondazione Golinelli
  • Fondazione Luigi Rovati
  • Università IULM di Milano
  • Artribune

Locations

  • Italy
  • Milan
  • Northern Italy

Sources