This month we feature Piacenza Talenti, a project that supports students, researchers, technicians, and creative professionals in discovering the opportunities offered by the city of Piacenza. Whether already living in the city or planning to move, the programme is designed to make the transition easier.

The project pays special attention to international students at local universities, who bring new ideas, energy, and cultural diversity to the city. Piacenza Talenti provides practical support and tailored services to help newcomers settle in, connect with the community, and feel at home.

Want to know more? Here’s the interview!

What strategies or programmes are you implementing to attract and retain talent?

Piacenza Talenti is designed with talents in mind – including students, researchers, technicians and creative professionals already living in Piacenza, or considering relocation to the city. We especially value the contribution of international students attending local universities: their growing presence is a real asset for the city, bringing fresh perspectives, energy, and cultural diversity.

We have created a tailored pathway to help settle in and feel at home in Piacenza, with services adapted to each phase of the journey:

• Moving to Piacenza – We showcase what the city has to offer in terms of culture, associations, and the business ecosystem, through dedicated communication channels.
• Setting up – We provide reception and orientation services to help to access essential resources like housing, healthcare, ecc.
• Living in – We promote integration through recreational, networking, educational, and professional development activities.

Which kind of services do you offer to talents? 

The goal is to facilitate a smooth transition to Pianceza by providing support:

Administrative and bureaucratic support – Support is available for obtaining a permesso di soggiorno including assistance with postal kits. Guidance is also offered for opening a bank account and registering for the national healthcare system through step-by-step instructions.

Job orientation – In collaboration with partners at the Orienta Giovani desk, we offer career guidance, CV and cover letter reviews, and insights into the local job market to help to identify suitable opportunities. 

Discover the city and meet the community – Updates on local events and activities are shared via social media channels to encourage integration into the local community. This spring we hosted three inspiring Masterclasses featuring local businesses in the fields of community-building, design & architecture, and food & wine with upcoming events in  September. 

Italian language course – Italian language courses integrate practical activities with lessons to enhance language skills while encouraging social interactions and community involvement. 

The Piacenza Talenti help desk, located at the Too Community Hub (Via XXIV Maggio 51, 29121 Piacenza), is open to all. Assistance is available during the opening hours:

• Tuesday 4.30 pm-7.30 pm;

• Thursday 4.30 pm-7.30 pm.

Do you offer support to the families of international professionals?

We believe it is essential to support not just talents, but their families as well. That is why we extend our services to partners and children too – from help with documentation (we know how tricky the permesso di soggiorno process can be!) to job orientation, school guidance, and community integration. 

What are the main resources or tools you use? 

Stay connected with Piacenza Talenti through all our channels:

• Piacenzatalenti.com is the go-to place for detailed information and updates
• Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn: @piacenzatalenti
• Join our new WhatsApp Channel for instant updates: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VbAAm2F0LKZHckboaS1f
• For any questions or requests, reach out at info@piacenzatalenti.com or call/WhatsApp us at +39 347 6790283

How do you collaborate with local institutions to facilitate the matching of trainees and professionals?

We are committed to providing an accurate and up-to-date overview of the professional landscape in Piacenza, including innovation hubs, local companies, co-working spaces, and public institutions such as the Employment Centre. By establishing initial contact with employment agencies in the area, we aim to expand the range of job openings, internships and training opportunities available.