Accademia Cortina: training in tourism and hospitality for 30 young people

The programme is, in fact, part of the initiatives promoted by ANCI and funded by the Youth Policy Fund, with the aim of supporting training, youth employability and the competitiveness of Italian tourist destinations. Through a limited-enrolment course for 30 participants, Accademia Cortina provides managerial skills and tools to tackle the transformations taking place in the hospitality sector: from managing the visitor experience to service innovation, from sustainability to the promotion of local heritage. The programme is designed and delivered by LEME using a training model focused on the practical application of knowledge.

The programme, which runs from 22 September to 28 November 2026, is divided into 9 modules, totalling 88 hours. The teaching combines online activities with face-to-face sessions in Cortina d’Ampezzo, comprising lectures by academics and industry professionals, business case studies, simulations, practical exercises, workshops and project work with companies in the sector. The course content is based on real-world issues in the local area, including the management of mountain hotels and the organisation of wellness and spa services.

Applications are open until 23:59 on 20 August 2026. The selection process is open to young people aged between 18 and 35 and will be based on the qualifications and experience provided; candidates admitted to the second stage will sit an online test.

“We welcome this new partnership with ANCI-Fondo Politiche Giovanili for the organisation of the second edition of ‘Accademia Cortina – Excellence in Hospitality and the Culture of Wellbeing’ with great enthusiasm,” said Monica De Mattia, councillor for the Municipality of Cortina d’Ampezzo. “ “In fact, the Accademia Cortina was never intended merely as a training programme, but as a genuine investment in the future of our community.” “‘This long-standing initiative is a shining example of how the National Fund for Youth Policies can translate into actions that have a tangible impact on the young people who benefit from it,’ added Antonella Galdi, Head of ANCI’s Department for Technological Innovation, Culture, Youth Policies, Sustainable Mobility, Public Transport and Energy Transition.”

“The tourism sector is undergoing a period of profound transformation and requires new skills that combine managerial vision, innovation and knowledge of local areas,” said Luca Pirolo, Scientific Director of the programme and Associate Dean for Multi-hub Strategy at Luiss Business School. “ “Through Accademia Cortina, we aim to offer young people a concrete, practice-oriented educational opportunity, providing them with the tools and methodologies to tackle the future challenges of the hospitality industry and contribute to the development of a sector that is strategic for the country.”