In the furnishings sector "Made in Italy" has always represented a guarantee of quality and excellence in terms of materials and craftsmanship, and this is exactly why the Italian industry will be exporting its products to the United States of America as a new frontier in international trade. Thanks to the collaboration of the Ministry of Economic Development, Federlegno has been launched, a new initiative of the Emerge Italy contest, open to all designers in the United States that follow international projects, to partake in new projects involving Italian furnishing companies.

The most prestigious American architectural firms will have a part in the contest to develop interesting and functional ideas for office, living room, kitchen, bedroom and bathroom furnishings. The Emerge Italy contest also awards, in partnership with the Politecnico di Milano, a group of young Italian designers who will be granted internships at the most renowned architectural firms in the country. The idea of promoting the talent of young architects and creating awareness among Italian businesses in terms of a modern development that crosses national borders, was launched by the Ministry of Economic Development, with the support of important American agencies such as IIDA (International Interior Design Association) and AIA (American Institute of Architect), who recognise great potential in Italian furniture factories.

The best ideas in the Emerge Italy contest will also be presented and exhibited at major Italian and international trade shows, including the Fiera di Milano which is held in April, ICFF in New York which will be held in May, Neocon in Chicago scheduled for June and the Made Expo event which will take place in Milan in October. At such a delicate time for the Italian market as this, the idea of opening up to new exports with the United States of America represents a significant guarantee of continuity and development for all of those young talents who are approaching the world of furnishing and design.