The Consulate General of Italy in San Francisco hosted a ceremony honoring Saeed Amidi, Founder and CEO of Plug and Play, who was awarded the Order of Merit of the Italian Republic (OMRI) in recognition of his significant contribution to Italy’s innovation ecosystem and to strengthening ties between Italy and Silicon Valley.
Consul General Massimo Carnelos presented the distinction to Saeed Amidi, recognizing his longstanding commitment to supporting Italian startups, entrepreneurs, and technological innovation.
Under Amidi’s leadership, Plug and Play has made a significant commitment to Italy, opening four locations in Catania, Milan, Modena, and Turin, creating the company’s largest network in Europe and Asia. In just two years, Plug and Play has also become one of the most active investors in Italian startups and innovative companies, supported by partnerships with key players in the Italian innovation ecosystem, including CDP Venture Capital.
Amidi’s commitment represents an important example of international investment in strategic sectors for Italy’s technological development, including artificial intelligence, life sciences, aerospace, robotics, and the energy transition, while opening new opportunities for Italian startups and entrepreneurs to connect with global innovation and investment networks.
The recognition also acknowledges Amidi’s continued collaboration with the Consulate General of Italy in San Francisco and INNOVIT – Italian Innovation and Culture Hub, supporting Italian delegations, fostering entrepreneurial exchanges, and helping build stronger connections between Italy and Silicon Valley.
The Consulate General congratulates Cavaliere Saeed Amidi on this prestigious recognition and expresses its appreciation for his commitment to Italy and to the next generation of Italian entrepreneurs and innovators.
A partnership already delivering tangible results—and with much more still to come.
