The Silvio and Marianne Tarchini Foundation , established in 2018 to continue the Tarchinis' philanthropic efforts, is now one of the most active organizations supporting education in Ticino and Switzerland. Over the years, the organization has supported numerous charitable initiatives both domestically and internationally, but since 2022, its efforts have increasingly focused on funding the university studies of deserving young people.
A commitment that goes beyond awarding scholarships, but translates into a clear vision: to offer Ticino and Swiss students concrete opportunities to pursue high-quality academic and professional careers.
A constantly growing support
While only three scholarships were awarded in the first academic year (2022/2023), the following year the number rose to 32. For the 2024/2025 call, the student response was impressive: 96 applications were received, 45 of which were accepted. In total, the Tarchini Foundation distributed grants totaling over 135 francs, with an additional 000 francs in donations.
The support is aimed in particular at young people attending the Academy of Architecture in Mendrisio and economics courses at the University of Italian Switzerland (USI) , other universities or federal polytechnics.
Awards and new opportunities
Since 2023, a specific award has been established for students who choose to complete a Master's degree in economics, architecture, or civil engineering in Ticino, after obtaining a Bachelor's degree from other Swiss universities. Furthermore, to mark the 150th anniversary of the Ticinese Union in London, the Foundation has created five annual scholarships of 5,000 francs each, reserved for young Ticinese students wishing to study in the United Kingdom.
This is a strong signal of international openness, reaffirming that support is not only tied to the local area, but also aims to build a bridge between Ticino and the global academic world.
The new 2025/2026 call
With the publication of the new call for applications for the 2025/2026 academic year, available on the official Silvio and Marianne Tarchini Foundation website , additional support opportunities for students are available. Deserving young Swiss students, with priority given to Ticino residents, enrolled at universities, federal institutes of technology, universities of applied sciences, or engaged in other professional training, are eligible to apply.
Selection will be made based not only on academic records and results, but also on family financial situation and any other funding previously received. Scholarships may be renewed annually, provided that student performance justifies it.
A philosophy that looks far ahead
This initiative is based on the belief, expressed by Silvio Tarchini himself, that education should not be seen as a duty, but as an "enviable opportunity." This principle is reflected in the Foundation's mission, which is increasingly focused on transforming the talent and commitment of young people into crucial resources for the future of Ticino and Switzerland.
With ever-growing support and an increasingly international outlook, the Tarchini Foundation confirms its position as a key player in strengthening the value of education, investing in new generations and offering them concrete tools to face tomorrow's challenges.
