Bologna is a thriving hub for the construction industry, which plays a pivotal role in the economic landscape of the entire region of Emilia-Romagna. With a legacy of excellence in product quality and design innovation, regional companies are not just local players but international leaders that contribute significantly to global production. At the heart of this success is the Italian ceramics industry, a powerhouse concentrated in the provinces of Modena and Reggio Emilia. This industry boasts an impressive annual production of over 600 million square meters, accounting for approximately 13% of the world's total and a staggering 43.3% of the EU’s production. In Emilia-Romagna, the realms of study, work and business in the building and construction sectors intertwine seamlessly. The region's innovation accelerator, ART-ER, coordinates networks like the Higher Technology Network, Technopolis, Clust-ER and Startup, fostering a collaborative ecosystem. This regional innovation ecosystem is structured around thematic centers, each housing laboratories within the Higher Technology Network. These organizations are pivotal in translating research results into practical applications. Collaborative entities like Clust-ER, alongside private business associations, research centers and training institutions, synergize their skills and resources to bolster the competitiveness of the construction sector. Bologna also has strong ties to the building and construction industry through its hosting of SAIE, which is the region's core exhibition for the sector. This international showcase distinguishes itself through its vertical product integration that spans heavy building machinery to furniture, tools and equipment. From building materials to air conditioning, construction machinery to structural engineering, SAIE provides a comprehensive overview. The event draws thousands of trade visitors annually, offering them a chance to explore the offerings of over 400 exhibitors. With over 37,000 professional visitors, 430 exhibitors, 22 special initiatives, 48 partners and 127 workshops, SAIE is a dynamic platform fostering collaboration, innovation and the continued evolution of Bologna’s construction industry.