The National Confederation of Artisans and Small Business Owners (CONAPI Nazionale) was founded in Rome in 2006 under its original name, A.P.I. — Italian Association of Bakers, Pastry Chefs, and Related Trades. Initially established to represent and protect a specific production sector, the Association has gradually expanded its scope to encompass the entire Italian artisan and small business sector.
In 2011, the Association adopted its current name, CONAPI Nazionale, and was recognized by the Ministry of Labor and Social Policies asthe “most representative”employers’ organization pursuant to Law No. 311/1973. This milestone marked the beginning of a new period marked by the strengthening of the confederation’s role in concluding National Collective Labor Agreements (CCNLs) in strategic sectors such as agriculture, construction, logistics, private healthcare and education.
Organizational growth and consolidation
Since 2012, CONAPI Nazionale has been expanding its institutional reach through an interconfederal agreement with U.G.L. and A.C.A.I., aimed at promoting shared labor union policies and joint training initiatives.
In the same period, the first National Collective Labor Agreement for the Food and Bakery sector was signed and E.Bi.N.Ar.T. – Bilateral Board for Crafts and Tertiary Sector – was established to meet the needs of the craft and tertiary sector.
In parallel, in addition to the design of a new Interprofessional Fund, the Confederation established new sector federations, supported the creation of additional Bilateral Bodies and founded CONAPI Italia, a service company dedicated to supporting members.
Reorganization and resilience
In 2019, CONAPI Nazionale underwent a major internal reorganization, followed by the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. This difficult period was used to redefine the organization’s operational structure and reaffirm its mission to support artisans and small businesses.
In the same year, the following was established E.LAV. – Bilateral Workers’ Organization , with the aim of promoting the well-being and centrality of the person in the workplace. The Confederation reiterated the fundamental principle that has always guided its actions: the person precedes capital and is the basis of the enterprise system.
With this in mind, new collaborations have been initiated with institutional bodies and territorial associations to strengthen the services offered and increase the effectiveness of intervention in the area.
Toward the future: innovation, synergy and proximity
Starting in 2023, CONAPI Nazionale has signed new National Collective Bargaining Agreements (CCNL) and, in collaboration with CONFINTESA, has promoted the creation of E.Na.Bi.T. – National Bilateral Transport Board , dedicated to the fields of transportation, logistics and shipping.
The same year also saw the establishment of FORMAINTESA, an Interprofessional Fund designed to support continuing education as a key tool for growth and innovation.
In 2024, the federal government strengthened its sectoral structure, expanded business-oriented services and supported the labor integration of foreign nationals, enhancing their skills and professionalism. These initiatives reflect an inclusive vision geared toward social cohesion and sustainable development.
A national network serving communities
With more than 34 National Collective Bargaining Agreements signed, a comprehensive system of specialized services, and a network of more than 80 regional offices spread across 71 Italian provinces, CONAPI Nazionale is today an authoritative and dynamic point of reference for the craft sector, small businesses, and the self-employed in Italy and abroad.
The confederal model is based on fundamental values such as proximity, active listening, participation, and strategic vision. With this in mind, CONAPI Nazionale places the individual within the workplace at the center of its efforts, promoting an economy based on respect, competence, and the dignity of work.
