The Gianfranco Ferré Research Center, Digital Innovation for the Creative and Cultural Industries was established in December 2021 by Politecnico di Milano following the donation to the University of both the historical archive and the former headquarters of the Gianfranco Ferré Foundation by the Ferré family.

Coordinated by the Fashion in Process Research Laboratory of the Department of Design, the Research Center brings together the culture of design and the technical-scientific know-how that define the identity of Politecnico di Milano with the material and immaterial heritage preserved and enhanced by the Gianfranco Ferré Foundation from 2008 to 2021.

Its approach is rooted in an interdisciplinary vision aimed at advancing the history, culture, and techniques of fashion through innovation, with particular attention to digital and technological transformation. Drawing on the expertise of multiple Departments, the Center integrates a wide range of disciplinary domains - from fashion design to computer and mathematical engineering, up to manufacturing technologies. Under the direction of the Department of Design, the Research Center’s activities are supported by the Department of Mechanical Engineering, the Department of Electronics, Information and Bioengineering, and the Department of Mathematics.

The Research Center is also an integral part of the Archival and Library System of Politecnico di Milano.

The Gianfranco Ferré Research Center’s mission is to promote digital innovation for the Creative and Cultural Industries.

Specifically, the Center aims to: preserve and promote the Gianfranco Ferré Historical Archive, including its expansion and the design of new models of accessibility and outreach that highlight the richness of its collections and foster interaction with diverse audiences; explore the potential of digital technologies by developing an “augmented archive”, an immersive environment in which each physical component is enriched with virtual layers offering interactive and intertextual insights; promote digital culture and innovation within the creative and cultural industries, particularly fashion and Made in Italy—through the development of prototypes and solutions transferable to other cultural institutions and creative enterprises, enhancing their attractiveness and competitiveness; promote dissemination, cultural, and educational initiatives that valorise the archival heritage and support the updating of knowledge and competencies related to it, involving experts, researchers, curators, journalists, students, and non-specialist audiences.