University of Naples Federico II – Department of Social Science

University of Naples Federico II – Department of Social Science

Our pledge
The Summer School “Bridging the Atlantic: Pathways to Innovation and Entrepreneurship” (www.pathwaystoinnovationentrepreneurship.eu) adopts a learner-centric approach, integrating social innovation and societal impact assessment into deep-tech entrepreneurship and research. Participants go through exploration and discovery phases guided by innovation leaders, experts, and stakeholders, followed by hands-on elaboration and implementation phases.
The program offers five modules designed to leverage the global networks of Italian researchers and entrepreneurs, addressing challenges in tech entrepreneurship, social innovation, and the assessment of high-potential investments for societal impact and sustainability transitions. The summer school features renowned academics, visionary executive leaders, prominent international figures, and influential members of the New York ecosystem, providing valuable insights into translating research findings into market-ready solutions with a focus on social impact assessment.
For example, in the 2024 session, participants engaged in a project promoting the villages of denomination wines in southern Italy. They explored tech solutions such as drones, AI, and hydrogel for irrigation to mitigate the adverse effects of climate change while discussing socioeconomic issues related to vineyards and their sustainability. This project aimed to promote cultural tourism and technical education at the high school level.
Participants develop a vision and skills in impact investing and sustainability assessment that complement their deep-tech expertise and research domains. The course’s pedagogy relies on a trans-disciplinary approach, where instructors and participants collaboratively examine cases or problems from various perspectives. This method fosters connections between actors, symbols, realities, and authentic experiences, encouraging both participants and instructors to embrace learning, risk-taking, high-level thinking, group cooperation, and the development of diverse self-oriented and social skills.
The Pledge will open up broad networking and interaction opportunities with other potential trainers and stakeholders, fostering collaborative initiatives and increasing diversity among participants and instructors.

About
The University of Naples is a member of the European Foundation network and the AURORA Alliance, with over 2,000 research and study agreements, including partnerships with 30 universities in the Middle East. The Social Science Department, comprising 58 faculty members and 21 staff, offers programs on digital cultures, web analysis, and social innovation. Its New York-based summer school on entrepreneurship and innovation focuses on the socioeconomic impact of deep tech research and industry.