Third sector and cultural heritage: national research launched

Third sector and cultural heritage: national research launched

Publication date: 13 April 2026

The National School of Heritage and Cultural Activities, with support from Fondazione Compagnia di San Paolo and Fondazione Cariplo, has launched the national study "Participation in the management of cultural heritage: Assessing the impacts of shared management." The project aims to highlight the contribution of Third Sector organizations (TSOs) to the care, management and enhancement of Italy's cultural heritage.

The national survey targets more than 25,000 TSOs registered in the RUNTS and active in heritage management. Collected data will inform interviews, focus groups and a final report containing guidelines and recommendations for institutions and practitioners.

• Goal: systematically measure the social, cultural and economic impacts of shared heritage management.
• Research cycle: 2025–2027, with specific studies in Liguria, Lombardy, Piedmont and the Aosta Valley.
• Participants: over 25,000 Third Sector organizations involved in heritage care and management.
• Expected outcomes: updated mapping of practices, a replicable analysis model and policy-oriented recommendations.

Participation is free via an online questionnaire; the evidence produced will support capacity building, job stability in the cultural sector and stronger dialogue between organizations and public bodies. For more information and to take part, visit the National School of Heritage website.