The Futura advancement award for young South Tyroleans in foreign countries was established in 1990 by the Hotelier and Restaurateur Association (HGV) and by the publishing house Athesia. The association of southern Tyrolean Sparkasse banks, Despar, the specialized beer brewery Forst and the "Dolomiten" newspaper support the project.
The aim of the initiative is to support, financially and in non-material ways, young South Tyroleans who have professionally distinguished themselves outside of South Tyrol. Candidates for receipt of the advancement award are people who have demonstrated a business profile in economics, science or culture.
Those wishing to apply for the prize must not be more than 35 years old. They must have spent at least 3 years in another country or outside the region of Southern Tyrol. Applicants must have distinguished themselves through special achievement during their education or career. Graduation from university is required. Applicants must have also maintained at least an emotional tie to their homeland of South Tyrol.