FAI – Fondo per l’Ambiente Italiano ETS (the National Trust for Italy) in line with its mission, has long been committed to safeguarding Italy’s historical, artistic, and natural heritage, with the understanding that the environment, people’s safety, and social inclusion are common goods to be protected.

The year 2024 marks a significant step forward in the Foundation’s reporting journey. For the first time, alongside the traditional Financial Statements and Social Report, FAI has voluntarily chosen to publish a Sustainability Report, adopting the 2021 Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) Standards, using the “with reference” approach. Building on the initial list of material topics outlined in the 2023 Social Report, the Foundation has expanded its analysis, identifying 16 relevant environmental, social, and governance (ESG) topics through a structured materiality assessment. This methodological choice enables greater transparency, consistency, and comparability of ESG-related information across the Foundation’s activities. In line with this approach, FAI has also integrated reporting on its contribution to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

In terms of performance, 2024 not only confirmed but surpassed the strong results achieved in the previous year. A continued focus on strategic investments, coupled with further development of internal expertise, has improved management efficiency and ensured optimal allocation of resources towards the preservation of Italy’s cultural and natural heritage.

Despite a challenging start to the year due to adverse weather conditions, visitor numbers rebounded in the second half, maintaining the overall positive trend. The Foundation’s properties increasingly moved toward financial self-sufficiency, enabling the continuation of restoration and conservation work through a sustainable economic model. This ensures that revenues generated through operations can fund preservation efforts in the years to come.

In 2024, 1,127,530 people visited FAI’s publicly accessible sites, and the number of active members rose to 306,650 – a 2% increase compared to 2023. In economic terms, this represents an 8% growth (€8,262,684 vs. €7,643,668 in 2023), confirming growing public support for the Foundation’s cultural initiatives.

Supporters who share in our mission contributed an impressive €35,879,697 in donations – a 9% increase over 2023 – accounting for 68% of total annual income. Corporate contributions also saw a substantial rise, totaling €10,355,628, a 36% increase, and representing 19% of total funds raised. Public bodies, banking foundations, private foundations, and associations contributed €4,552,224, accounting for 9% of total revenues.

The results achieved in 2024 reaffirm the value and impact of the work carried out so far. They reflect the growing trust and support of those who believe in our cause and set the stage for continued growth and an increasingly ambitious challenge: to bring our mission to life with even greater depth and reach.

Davide Usai DIRECTOR GENERAL