Valencia designs the pulse of tomorrow
Startup Valencia at VDS Tech 2024
Startup Valencia at VDS Tech 2024
THE CHALLENGE
The challenge for VDS2024 wasn’t just to build an international congress: it was to design a meeting point capable of reflecting the speed of technological change and the human value of innovation. In the heart of Valencia, the City of Arts and Sciences had to be transformed into a fully functional, scalable, and dynamic space, capable of hosting more than 12,000 people from 110 countries, while maintaining the inspirational character that defines VDS. The space had to adapt to seven simultaneous stages, multiple content formats, unpredictable audience flows, and meticulously planned logistics. All of this without losing sight of the most important objective: to create an experience that connected people, talent, and ideas in a memorable and seamless way.
OUR PROPOSAL
Faced with this challenge, our approach was simultaneously technical, emotional, and conceptual. We designed an ecosystem spanning over 30,000 square meters, structured in flexible modules that responded to the evolving needs of the various spaces: from main stages to thematic forums, exhibition areas, chill-out zones, and informal meeting points. The ephemeral architecture was supported by advanced technical production, integrating surround sound, dynamic lighting, large-format screens, digital signage, and high-capacity connectivity, all precisely synchronized.
The setup was completed in less than a week and adapted to changing weather conditions, the speakers’ technical requirements, and the logistical needs of the participating startups. As an inaugural highlight, we developed a laser mapping show that projected the letters VDS into the air using beams of light, smoke, and surround sound. This gesture not only marked the beginning of the event but also symbolized the fusion of space, technology, and emotion that defines VDS. Every point of contact between the audience and the space—from the first registration to the last presentation—was designed to ensure a seamless yet impactful experience.
“This event demanded not only technical precision, but also a special sensitivity to build something greater than the sum of its parts. We designed a conference, yes… but what we created was an experience that pulsed to the rhythm of global innovation.”
Paula Jiménez Peiró, Project Manager
THE RESULTS
The result was a historic edition of VDS. Not only for its scale—with 12,000 attendees, more than 3,000 startups, 700 investors with portfolios exceeding €250 billion, and 600 international speakers—but also for its ability to transform Valencia into a true global innovation hub for two days. The event generated an economic impact of €20.3 million, was declared an Event of Exceptional Public Interest, and showcased the city to the world as a strategic location for talent, investment, and technological development.
Startup Valencia, the congress organizers, highlighted the event’s smooth operation, the technical setup’s ability to resolve challenges in real time, and the seamless experience enjoyed by attendees. The icing on the cake: recognition with the Silver Award for Best Congress at the Eventoplus Awards, an award that celebrates not only the event’s technical aspects but also its power to inspire and connect.
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