by Roberta Imbimbo
Founded in 2003 in Avellino, ProtoDesign Srl is a consulting firm that has progressively established itself as a key player in the management and coordination of highly technical and scientific projects. With an initial focus on the development of prototypes and small-series measuring instruments for research laboratories and universities, the company has successfully evolved and adapted to the ever-changing demands of the market. The entry of engineer Antonio Maccario into the company’s ownership in 2012 marked a turning point. During a time of internal transformation, the company was able to consolidate its position in the consulting and technology services sector, further expanding its core business and strengthening its brand reputation within the industry.
Engineer Maccario, what was ProtoDesign’s founding mission?
ProtoDesign was founded with the mission of becoming a significant reference point in the field of prototype development and small-series measuring instruments for research laboratories and universities. Over time, however, the company broadened its scope, incorporating highly technical and scientific activities linked to the full research and development ecosystem into its portfolio. Today, ProtoDesign is a qualified and reliable partner for companies seeking to embark on sustainable innovation journeys that aim to enhance their production processes and develop new products. Its mission is to support companies in drafting multi-year research and development plans; conducting technology scouting to connect businesses with local research centers; accessing national and European public funding for technological innovation projects; protecting and enhancing intellectual property through accurate valuation reports; and certifying the R&D projects implemented by client companies.
Has the company developed specific expertise in certain areas?
Yes, ProtoDesign has developed strong vertical expertise in specific areas, with a particular focus on energy optimization of production processes, the implementation of integrated renewable and non-renewable energy systems, and the energy retrofitting of companies aiming to improve their energy performance. In this context, and in partnership with the Federico II University spin-off APPER Srl, ProtoDesign provides in-depth energy audits designed to map and analyze corporate energy consumption, identify areas for improvement, and determine the most effective solutions to optimize energy usage, reduce waste, and enhance overall performance.
Thanks to its ongoing evolution and specialization, ProtoDesign has also established a department dedicated to the design and development of ICT (Information & Communication Technologies) solutions, with a special focus on advanced software, embedded systems, and smart sensors. Can you tell us more about this?
This area is supported in its concept and design phases by Createk Scarl, a non-profit Research and Technological Innovation Institute that develops innovative products and solutions to address the complex challenges faced by modern enterprises. Leveraging its extensive technological experience, ProtoDesign’s ICT division—together with DIGIPLUS Srl, which supports product industrialization and commercialization—is able to guide companies through digital transformation by delivering advanced ICT solutions, from software development to the design of embedded systems and intelligent sensors.
What are the company’s future goals?
Looking ahead, ProtoDesign is ready to write a new chapter in its journey by decisively expanding into the energy market and the ESCO (Energy Service Company) sector. Already a leader in technological innovation, the company aims to respond to the challenges of an ever-evolving world, where sustainability and energy efficiency are increasingly critical. ProtoDesign’s goal is to become the go-to partner for Italian companies looking to successfully navigate the energy transition, offering innovative solutions to boost efficiency, reduce consumption, and minimize environmental impact. A future full of opportunities lies ahead for ProtoDesign, which is prepared to face the challenges of change with the same passion and determination that have defined its path thus far.
