“Fondazione Nord Est” is the economic forum founded by all of the branches of Confindustria and all of the different economic categories of the northeast of Italy. It is the place wherein understand, dialogue and reflect on the present and the future of the Northeast economy. It is a think tank that helps to understand what changes are taking place, what will be the consequences in the medium term and what strategies it is necessary to choose in order to face them. Fondazione Nord Est is an interface between the research's world (firstly University), where future is defined and understood, and the industry's world. The main aim is to deliver to the industry world the most innovative and interesting products of research and, at the same time, to transfer to the research the priorities and the operative paths of industrial world. Themes Fondazione Nord Est deals with the most relevant themes of the future of the industry sectors, of our societies, of our cities, and of our environment. The studies and the researches range from issues as technological and digital innovation to the latest market trends, from the new organizational and productive systems to the implications for Italian companies of international dynamics such as unequal growth, climate change, aging population, robotization of industrial production, circular economy, etcetera. Particular attention is given to the theme of human capital and its training, to the new competences that will be necessary for the emerging digital world, and to the reduction of the gap between school/university and companies.