Founded in 1988 by entrepreneur, researcher, and philanthropist Marino Golinelli, the Foundation is now a philanthropic holding company that manages purpose-driven companies, oversees cultural centers, develops technological research platforms, coordinates the Marino Golinelli School of Ideas (an independent lower secondary school), and actively participates in investment companies, consortia, innovation centers, and other cultural initiatives.

The Foundation’s activities are housed within the Opificio Golinelli – a city of knowledge, innovation, and culture – as well as the Golinelli Arts and Sciences Center and G-Factor.