FBK: Strong management of PNRR projects

Fondazione Bruno Kessler reports on the implementation of projects related to the National Recovery and Resilience Plan (PNRR), highlighting management that is considered solid and effective, both financially and operationally.

According to a recent internal review and discussions with national institutions promoting the PNRR, no cuts are expected to the approximately €40 million allocated overall. Of this amount, €17 million has already been received by FBK, while the remaining funds are expected to be disbursed by the Ministry between September and October. Some requests for additional documentation are anticipated in the coming months, but the overall outlook remains stable.  An important milestone is the completion of all cascading calls, signaling concrete progress in project activities.

On the program side, four initiatives under the National Complementary Plan (PNC) are ongoing, with a timeline extending through the end of 2026.  These include the D3-4-HEALTH project, along with other National Competitiveness Partnerships (NCPs), reinforcing the foundation’s role in strategic areas such as digital health and technological innovation.

Overall, FBK highlights strong financial management: there will be no need to draw on the allocated €3.5 million cash reserve.

At the same time, the size of the organization is also expanding. Despite high turnover, the foundation continues to increase the number of people involved in projects, strengthening both skills and operational capacity.

This progress comes at a symbolic moment for the institution: FBK’s 20th anniversary. Over this period, the foundation has doubled its laboratories and strengthened its presence in strategic value chains, including IPCEI (Important Projects of Common European Interest), with the goal of launching one or two new initiatives and a third in the future.

Overall, the picture reflects a growing institution capable of managing the complexity of the PNRR while maintaining financial balance and project continuity, with tangible impacts on the research and innovation system.