Elisabetta Vignando

Elisabetta Vignando is an international economic development professional with 20 years of experience at the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) and in international cooperation. Her expertise spans international economic relations, industrial development, investment promotion and partnerships between the public and private sectors, connecting institutions, businesses and international organisations to advance sustainable growth.

She is Managing Director of Auxilia Foundation, an Italian non-profit foundation promoting sustainable development, gender equality and opportunities for vulnerable communities through international cooperation and partnerships across sectors. Her work also focuses on innovation ecosystems, SMEs, advanced manufacturing and sustainable economic transformation.

She founded We Are The People, an initiative addressing migration through an integrated approach that connects the integration of migrants with the development of host communities, turning shared challenges into opportunities for social and economic progress. Her work has also contributed to initiatives recognised by the European Commission's RegioStars Award in 2015.

Her approach to economic leadership combines international experience with a commitment to inclusive growth, women's economic participation and partnerships that deliver lasting impact.