The Confederazione Nazionale Artigiani e Piccoli Imprenditori (Co.N.A.P.I. Nazionale) was founded in Rome in 1994 under the original name of A.P.I. – Associazione Italiana Panettieri, Pasticcieri e Affini. Initially established to represent and protect a specific production category, the Association has gradually extended its scope of action to the entire Italian craft and small business sector.
In 2010, the Association assumed its current name of Co.N.A.P.I. Nazionale, obtaining recognition from the Ministry of Labor and Social Policy as the “most representative” employer organization under 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, Co.N.A.P.I. National has initiated institutional expansion through an interconfederal agreement with U.G.L. and A.C.A.I. aimed at promoting shared 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, the National Co.N.A.P.I. faced a major internal reorganization, followed by the challenge of the Covid-19 pandemic. This complex period was used to redefine the operational organization and reaffirm the 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
As of 2023, the National Co.N.A.P.I. has signed new National Collective Labor Agreements (CCNLs) and, in cooperation with CONFINTESA, 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 Labor Agreements signed, an articulated system of specialized services and a network consisting of more than 80 territorial offices distributed in 71 Italian provinces, Co.N.A.P.I. Nazionale today represents an authoritative and dynamic point of reference for crafts, small businesses and self-employment in Italy and abroad.
The confederal model is based on fundamental values such as proximity, listening, participation and strategic vision. With this in mind, the National Co.N.A.P.I. places the person in the enterprise at the center of its action, promoting an economy based on respect, competence and dignity of labor.
