The Foundation's primary purpose is to ensure the continuation of the Riva Fidecomesso of Lugano, established in 1675 by Antonio Riva and later benefited in 1694 by Giovan Battista Riva, for the education of their descendants of both sexes, and more specifically as provided in the regulation issued by the Foundation Council. The Foundation also aims to promote mutual knowledge among the Riva family, to update their genealogy, and to contribute to the study of the family's history and its members. The Foundation is non-profit and does not pursue any gain. It is non-denominational and non-partisan and is against any racial discrimination.