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Promoting Italy-U.S. Trade

The Italy-America Chamber of Commerce of Texas was founded in Houston in 1992 as a non-profit organization with a clear mission — to foster business networking between Italy and the United States. We are dedicated to promoting Italian business growth in Texas, Louisiana, Arkansas, and Oklahoma, creating opportunities for investment, partnership, and cultural exchange.

Global Business Network

As a recognized member of ASSOCAMERESTERO — the global network of Italian Chambers of Commerce Abroad — we connect businesses with unparalleled market insights, resources, and cross-border opportunities.

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Why Texas?

Expanding Market Potential

Texas stands as the second-largest economy in the U.S. and ranks fifteenth globally based on GDP. It is a dynamic hub for key industries such as oil & gas, healthcare, aerospace, and advanced manufacturing, offering vast growth potential for Italian businesses.

Unmatched Business Opportunities

Houston, home to the headquarters of major energy corporations, NASA's Johnson Space Center, and the world’s largest medical complex, opens doors to unparalleled international business prospects. With a rapidly expanding economy and strong demand for premium products and services, Texas offers fertile ground for Made in Italy brands across industries such as food, wine, fashion, luxury, mechanics, and furnishings.

Room for Expansion

The market is far from saturated, making it an ideal region for Italian businesses seeking expansion and partnership opportunities.

Our Services

Driving Business Success

The Italy-America Chamber of Commerce of Texas provides comprehensive business services designed to support Italian companies exploring or expanding in the U.S. market. Our services include:

Business Matchmaking Services

  • Business Matchmaking: Connecting Italian and U.S. businesses for partnerships, joint ventures, and collaborations.
  • Trade Missions & Product Launches: Organizing industry-specific missions, trade fairs, and product promotions.

Legal and Financial Support

  • Legal & Financial Assistance: Offering access to expert legal consultation, financial advisory, and market-entry guidance.
  • Event Coordination: Hosting business events, networking opportunities, and cultural initiatives to build strong bilateral relationships.

Operational and Logistical Support

  • Operational Support: Providing virtual office solutions, conference room facilities, and logistics assistance for seamless business operations.
Regional Presence

With offices in Houston, Austin, and New Orleans, we are strategically positioned to offer hands-on support and insights to Italian businesses across the Southern U.S. region.

Strengthened by Global Ties

We are proud to be part of ASSOCAMERESTERO, the global network of Italian Chambers of Commerce Abroad (CCIE).

Enhanced Business Visibility
This membership strengthens our ability to:

  • Expand business visibility.
  • Access influential networks.
  • Foster global business relations.
Global Market Reach

Our affiliation ensures that Italian enterprises in the U.S. receive robust support backed by international expertise and strategic partnerships.

Our Platinum and Patron Members

We deeply value the continuous support of our Platinum and Patron Members, whose contributions drive our mission forward.

Meet Our Team

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ALESSIA PAOLICCHI

Executive Director

Email: a.paolicchi@iacctexas.com

rLeading Our Vision
 Alessia Paolicchi serves as the Executive Director of the Italy-America Chamber of Commerce of Texas, bringing extensive expertise in international business operations and organizational strategy.

Professional Background
 Alessia graduated from the University of Pisa Law School in Italy and furthered her education with a Master’s degree in Personnel Administration and Human Resources Management from the University of Bologna. Before joining the Italy-America Chamber of Commerce of Texas, she worked as an International Sales Manager and Production Planner for a leading Italian shoe company. She later transitioned to Director of Operations at CTT, a large transportation holding with over 1,200 employees in Tuscany, where she oversaw legal, procurement, communications, and organizational strategy.

The Journey
 In 2012, Alessia was appointed Executive Director of the Italy-America Chamber of Commerce of Texas, where she has since played a critical role in driving trade relations and business partnerships between Italy and the U.S.. Since 2017, she has also served as a member of the Advisory Council of the European American Investment Council (EAIC), amplifying Italy-America Chamber of Commerce of Texas’s influence in international business expansion. Alessia has been based in Houston since 2009, continually fostering cross-border business growth.

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MAURIZIO GAMBERUCCI

Deputy Director and Taste of Italy Coordinator

Email: m.gamberucci@iacctexas.com

Expert in Business Growth
 Maurizio Gamberucci serves as the Deputy Director of Italy-America Chamber of Commerce of Texas, specializing in business development, strategic planning, and cross-border market expansion.

Professional Background
 Maurizio holds a University Degree in Political Sciences and multiple certifications in Executive, Business, and Group Coaching from both Italy and the U.S. Before moving to the U.S., he founded and managed three business consulting and training firms in Italy, offering strategic guidance to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). His expertise covers marketing, business planning, and project management, with over 500 hours of certified training in Project Cycle Management.

Role in The Organization
Maurizio joined the Italy-America Chamber of Commerce of Texas in 2014, shortly after moving to Texas in 2013. Today, he leads business matchmaking, strategic planning, and trade mission support, helping Italian businesses establish a robust presence in the Southern U.S. market.

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FRANCESCA BACCI

Business Development Manager

Email: f.bacci@iacctexas.com

Driving Market Expansion
 As a Business Development Analyst, Francesca Bacci specializes in helping Italian companies navigate and expand their market presence in the United States.

Legal and Corporate Experience
 Francesca holds a Law Degree and practiced corporate law at the Florence Court of Appeal in Italy. She gained substantial experience in corporate governance, legal contracts, and risk management while working at Tenaris-Dalmine Spa, Bergamo. Later, she moved to Buenos Aires, Argentina, where she worked at the law firm Mitrani-Caballero-Ojam, specializing in corporate restructuring and international business transactions.

Joining the Chamber
 Francesca joined the Italy-America Chamber of Commerce of Texas in 2012, gaining considerable experience in business internationalization projects across various sectors, including mechanics, energy, technology, luxury goods, and design. After a brief relocation to Milan from 2013 to 2018 to expand the Italy-America Chamber of Commerce of Texas's Italian market presence, she resumed her role in Houston in 2018, strengthening business connections between Italy and the U.S.

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ALESSANDRA SALVATORI 

Office Manager & Event Coordinator

Email: a.salvatori@iacctexas.com

Ensuring Smooth Operations
 As the Office Manager of the Italy-America Chamber of Commerce of Texas, Alessandra Salvatori oversees the chamber’s day-to-day operations, ensuring seamless coordination between Italian and U.S. business entities.

Legal and International Background
 Alessandra earned her Juris Doctor Law Degree with honors from the University of Naples and practiced law in Milan and Naples after passing the Bar Exam. She has lived in Egypt, Angola, and the U.S., developing strong multicultural communication skills throughout her career. Alessandra has also taught Italian Literature, History, and Latin at the Italian Consulate-supported Liceo Scientifico in Cairo.

Joining Us
After moving to Houston, Texas, in 2015, Alessandra joined the Italy-America Chamber of Commerce of Texas in 2016, where she has since managed member services, coordinated events, and provided administrative support. Her diverse international experience makes her a valuable asset in facilitating cross-border collaboration.

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Board Of Directors

  • Mr. Mauro Lorenzini, Consul General of Italy, Honorary Board Member
  • Mr. Filippo Fusaro, Italian Trade Commissioner, Honorary Board Member
  • Mr. Brando Ballerini, Owner, BPB Energy LLC, President
  • Mr. Edoardo Ascione, Fagioli Inc., Board Member
  • Mr. Mark Anderson, Public Accounting | CPA | Energy and Industrials Sector, Board Member
  • Mr. Andrea Benedetti, CEO ROBOZE-USA, Board Member
  • Mr. Giovanni Montanelli, Texas - Oklahoma - Arkansas Regional Manager Bindi USA, Board Member
  • Mr. Angelo Ferrari, Owner, Beviamo International, Board Member
  • Mr. Niccolo Lorimer, Founder and CEO Noble Harvest, Board Member
  • Mr. Mario Schiavo, CEO, Tosca Italian Gourmet, Board Member
  • Mr. Filippo Spezzapria, President ForgitalUSA, Board Member
  • Mr. Massimiliano Tosi, Marketing Manager, Eataly Dallas TX, Board Member
  • Mr. Paolo Valente, President, Valenterprise Corp., Board Member
  • Mr. Arnold McAdams, CPA, External Auditor
  • Mrs. Alessia Paolicchi, Executive Director

Our Branches

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Austin Branch

Strengthening Italian Business Presence in Austin

The Italy-America Chamber of Commerce of Texas established its Austin branch on September 20, 2012, aiming to enhance the Chamber’s presence and services in Texas' capital city. Austin, known for its thriving technology industry and prestigious university centers, offers significant opportunities for Italian companies to expand and succeed in the U.S. market.

Strengthening Italian Business Presence in Austin

The Italy-America Chamber of Commerce of Texas established its Austin branch on September 20, 2012, aiming to enhance the Chamber’s presence and services in Texas' capital city. Austin, known for its thriving technology industry and prestigious university centers, offers significant opportunities for Italian companies to expand and succeed in the U.S. market.

Driving Cross-Border Growth

The Austin branch, much like the headquarters, is dedicated to organizing trade missions, networking events, and consulting services for Italian businesses looking to establish or strengthen their presence in Texas. This branch plays a vital role in fostering trade relations and creating business opportunities between Italy and the United States.

Leadership in Austin

Martin Morales – Chairman of the Advisory Board

Email: m.morales@iacctexas.com

Leadership and Industry Expertise

Martin Morales, a Houston native with Sicilian roots, has been an Austin resident for over 37 years. He holds a Master of Business Administration from the University of Texas at Austin and a Bachelor of Arts from Baylor University in Waco. With over 30 years of experience in the financial services industry, including significant roles at JP Morgan Chase and Citigroup, Martin now serves as Senior Vice President, Commercial Relationship Manager at BBVA Compass Bank in Austin, Texas.

Liaison for Business Growth

As Chairman of the Advisory Board, Martin oversees membership recruitment, supervises branch initiatives, and acts as a direct liaison between the Italy-America Chamber of Commerce of Texas and local business entities, the Austin Chamber of Commerce, and government bodies. He also plays a key role in proposing board recommendations to the Italy-America Chamber of Commerce of Texas leadership, ensuring the branch remains aligned with the Chamber's broader mission.

Advisory Committee

In response to increasing trade missions from Italy to Texas, the Italy-America Chamber of Commerce of Texas formed an Advisory Committee in 2014. The committee comprises professionals with specialized knowledge who voluntarily assist Italian companies by offering insights on business practices, market trends, and trade opportunities in the U.S. The current members of the Advisory Committee are:

  • Rodolfo Ambrosetti– IBM (Technology Sector)
  • Giacomo Butera– Margaux & Associates (Wine and Spirits Sector)
  • Carlos Capra– Lezioni d’Italiano (Translation and Interpretation)
  • Chris Cutrone– Texas Workforce Commission (Government Liaison)
  • Stefania Rigo– Hardies Fine Foods (Food Sector)
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New Orleans Branch

Strengthening Italian Business Footprint in Louisiana

On February 10, 2020, the Italy-America Chamber of Commerce Texas expanded its presence by opening a New Orleans branch in partnership with the Southern Food and Beverage Museum (SoFAB). This initiative was a strategic move to build stronger commercial ties between Italian businesses and the local business community across Louisiana, Arkansas, and Oklahoma.

Strengthening Italian Business Footprint in Louisiana

On February 10, 2020, the Italy-America Chamber of Commerce Texas expanded its presence by opening a New Orleans branch in partnership with the Southern Food and Beverage Museum (SoFAB). This initiative was a strategic move to build stronger commercial ties between Italian businesses and the local business community across Louisiana, Arkansas, and Oklahoma.

Supporting Food and Wine Trade

New Orleans' deep-rooted Italian heritage and its prominent role in the food and beverage industry made it an ideal location for Italy-America Chamber of Commerce of Texas to establish a new branch. The Chamber aims to connect Italian food, wine, and hospitality businesses with local industry leaders, fostering commercial partnerships and market growth.

Leadership in New Orleans

Liz Williams – Branch Director

Email: l.williams@iacctexas.com

Promoting Food Heritage

The New Orleans branch is led by Liz Williams, a renowned food historian, author, and founder of the Southern Food and Beverage Museum. Being of Sicilian descent, Liz has long been an advocate for preserving and promoting Italian food culture in New Orleans and beyond. She also serves as the President of the National Food & Beverage Foundation, focusing on the cultural significance of food and drink.

Boosting Food Industry Ties

Liz’s leadership in the New Orleans branch is pivotal in driving new business relationships, curating networking events, and strengthening the Italian-American food and beverage market in Louisiana.

Enhancing Regional Collaboration

The establishment of the New Orleans branch aligns with Italy-America Chamber of Commerce of Texas' broader vision of expanding commercial opportunities for Italian companies throughout the Southern United States. By working closely with local institutions and businesses, the Chamber facilitates trade missions, organizes industry events, and strengthens cross-cultural commercial ties.

Broadening Regional Impact

According to Italy-America Chamber of Commerce of Texas Executive Director, Alessia Paolicchi, the decision to open a New Orleans office was a natural step given the Chamber’s successful initiatives in Texas. This expansion now allows the Italy-America Chamber of Commerce of Texas to serve businesses across Louisiana, Arkansas, and Oklahoma with more localized support.

Building Stronger Alliances

“We’ve already been working with Louisiana-based companies for over two years, especially in the food and wine industry. Opening this branch will now allow us to deepen those relationships and foster even more growth.”
 — Alessia Paolicchi, Executive Director, Italy-America Chamber of Commerce of Texas

Enhancing Multistate Presence

Deputy Director Maurizio Gamberucci emphasized that having a physical presence in New Orleans significantly enhances the Chamber’s capacity to connect with businesses across multiple states, offering hands-on guidance and support for Italian companies aiming to enter or expand within the U.S. market.

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Connect With Us

Looking to expand your business in Texas or explore trade opportunities between Italy and the U.S.?

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