Nicola Belli is the founder and since 2001 technical director of MaTech, the research center for innovative materials and technology transfer of Galileo Science Park in Padova, Italy.

Founded as a local service, MaTech is today the leading public organization in Italy in the field of new materials and product innovation, with 10 offices located in the main industrial districts of Italy.

Graduated in aerospace engineering, Mr. Belli grew up professionally at Ferrari Engineering and Ferrari, as project manager for the Space Division (1993-1996). In 1996 he joined Benetton Group as Innovation Manager for the Sportsystem division, with the main task of building the Innovation and Research department. He coordinated innovation development for Nordica, Rollerblade, Prince, Killer Loop, and Playlife brands. He also took care of technology transfer from the Benetton Formula 1 Team in Enstone (UK) to the other departments of Benetton Group in Italy.

Mr. Belli also served as Technical Advisor for the International Olympic Committee at the Nagano 1998 and Salt Lake City 2002 Winter Olympic Games; as researcher in aerodynamics and new materials he served the Italian Winter Sport Federation (1993-1998) and the Federation Monegasque du Bobsleigh (1998-2002). He completed his sport career as Head Chief of the Italian National Bobsleigh Team (2002-2004).