In Italy, bank foundations are independent, nonprofit organizations that focus solely on promoting social well-being and driving economic development. They trace their roots back to the early 1800s, when savings banks first emerged to support working- and middle-class families and to harness the flow of capital sparked by the Industrial Revolution. Today, bank foundations remain essential partners to the nonprofit sector and public institutions, funding projects that strengthen communities and create new opportunities.

In 2024, Italian bank foundations supported over 22,000 initiatives and distributed more than €1 billion—marking the most impactful year in over a decade. Their total grant-making activity reached €1.09 billion, a 4.3% increase from the previous year. Social welfare received the largest share of funding, with €336.9 million (roughly 31% of the total), and the average grant amounted to just under €50,000.