This case study focuses on the digital academy programme of the University of Naples within the campus of San Giovanni. The analysis examines the successful collaboration between the University and several global high-tech players taking root within a fragile setting in Italy. The academy programme promotes digital innovation and leverages partnerships with both regional and international industries; hence, the programme has earned legitimacy and forged resilience in the current pandemic crisis and an otherwise challenging context. This case illustrates how university public engagement, which is a heavily contextual and non-linear process, can gain international traction and contribute to innovation and regional development.The analysis highlights the implications for (i) regional development and innovation policy, and (ii) the evaluation of public engagement or the socalled third mission of higher education institutions.