MARANELLO, Italy - On November 13 2024, Governor DeSantis toured the Ferrari facility in Maranello, Italy. Later in Milan, the Governor oversaw the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between Florida International University (FIU), Insightec, Inc. (a Florida-based company), and the Neurological Institute of Besta to share research on innovative treatments for brain diseases. The Florida delegation also explored partnerships in Florence, Maranello, Bologna and Milan and met with leaders from the Tuscany and Lombardy Regions, two of Italy’s largest economic producers. Finally, Governor DeSantis met with the President of the Lombardy region of Italy, Attilio Fontana. In their meeting together, they agreed to work towards an MOU and for Florida to host a reciprocal trade mission for Italian businesses from the region.

“Our mission in Italy continues to produce results,” said Governor Ron DeSantis. “In addition to building new relationships for Florida today with world-renowned businesses, we have also formed a partnership between Floridian and Italian institutions to share innovative research to treat brain diseases.”

Ferrari is an Italian luxury sports car manufacturer, renowned for its high-performance vehicles, cutting-edge technology and engineering, cultural impact, and rich history in motorsport. It defines excellence and sportiveness in the car industry. The delegation’s visit today was designed to demonstrate to Ferrari Florida’s commitment to being a shipping and receiving hub for interested companies.

The Neurological Institute of Besta (Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta) is a center of excellence for research and the treatment if neurological diseases based in Milan.

The agreement between FIU, Insightec, Inc (a Florida-based company) and the Neurological Institute of Besta will support and promote the sharing of neuroscience research and innovation between the entities. The agreement will allow collaboration on clinical research studies involving potential treatment of Alzheimer’s Disease and other brain diseases and will help patients in Florida, across the US and around the world.

Read more about today's announcement here.