Origin of What's Next
VDS is one of Europe’s most prominent international tech events and a platform that is transforming Valencia into a global tech hub. Organized by Startup Valencia, VDS has been bringing together the world’s leading startups, influential corporates, and visionary investors at the iconic City of Arts and Sciences in Valencia since 2018.
This tech event is the gateway to powerful business connections, bringing together companies and individuals you might not typically encounter—all in one inspiring place. VDS will celebrate its ninth edition on October 21–22, 2026.
From Valencia to the world
VDS offers a unique opportunity to connect with companies and individuals you might not typically encounter—all in one place. This edition is uniting over 3,000 startups, welcoming more than 12,000 attendees from 120+ countries, and facilitating meaningful interactions between international corporations and over 800 investors with assets under management exceeding €300 billion.
12,000+
Attendees
600+
Speakers
800+
Investors
3,000+
Startups
Strategic Partner
TNW, a Financial Times Company, is a Strategic Partner for VDS2024 and will provide support for the International Ecosystem Forum and the VDS Startup Competition. Additionally, it will facilitate International Connections and assist in its global expansion.
Strategic Partner
TNW, a Financial Times Company, is a Strategic Partner for VDS2024 and will provide support for the International Ecosystem Forum and the VDS Startup Competition. Additionally, it will facilitate International Connections and assist in its global expansion.
Speakers
Meet the global leaders, startup and scaleup founders, unicorn founders, top investors and distinguished personalities.
Speakers
Our lineup of speakers include business leaders from major tech companies, international renowned global figures and top executives from multinational corporations.
Main topics
Who is VDS for?
VDS Startup Competition is an international competition aimed at finding the most disruptive startups with outstanding potential around the world.
Finalists will be selected by a panel of industry experts and investors following criteria such as innovation, scalability, impact.
Do you want to showcase your innovative ideas and projects to VDS audience?
Our Pitch Stage is an exciting platform where founders can present their business models, demonstrate their products, and pitch for investment. It’s the perfect stage to turn entrepreneurial dreams into reality!
Startups can make the most of their time at the tech event by scheduling one-on-one meetings through the VDS Official App.
You will be able to meet with top international projects, partners of Startup Valencia, high-profile investors and leading corporations that will gather at the next edition of VDS.
VDS transforms our city into the global epicentre of innovation, attracting key players from the entrepreneurial ecosystem and consolidating Valencia’s position on the world stage, thanks to the Side Events that complement VDS during the months of October and November.
Information on 2026 Side Events coming soon.
If you’re driven to help shape a future where technology empowers creative individuals to build a brighter tomorrow, we want to hear from you.
Stay tuned for the VDS 2026 edition.
Founders of the most innovative startups confirmed their roles as keynote speakers along with leaders from national and international venture capital firms at the last VDS edition.
Being an exhibitor with a stand at VDS 2026 it’s an opportunity to gain unparalleled visibility and exposure, as the international tech event attracts a diverse and influential audience, including investors, industry experts, and potential partners.
Showcase your product or service to this captive audience, generate leads, and make valuable connections that can propel your startup to new heights with a dedicated space!
The latest edition of VDS in numbers looked like this:
12,000+ Attendees
120+ Countries
3,000+ Startups
800+ Investors
2,500+ Meetings
Enjoy a curated environment designed to foster meaningful networking, collaboration, and innovation.
From intimate networking sessions to personalized meetings with key stakeholders, the Business Lounge offers a unique opportunity to engage with like-minded professionals and forge strategic partnerships.
If you’re driven to help shape a future where technology empowers creative individuals to build a brighter tomorrow, we want to hear from you.
The deadline to apply for the 2025 Call for Speakers has now passed. Stay tuned for the VDS 2026 edition.
Sponsoring VDS means increasing your visibility and network, making solid connections and growing your business by meeting new partners, clients and hundreds of potential prospects.
Discover the sponsorship opportunities for corporates and get ready for VDS 2026!
Become one of the challengers in The Challenge!
The competition organised within the framework of VDS promotes an innovative culture within the university environment by enabling participants to develop their skills through 12-hour hackathon challenges.
Discover the ultimate networking experience at VDS with our private catering services. Indulge in an exclusive culinary experience while connecting with like-minded professionals in a luxurious setting.
Our private catering offerings for corporates are designed to enhance your networking opportunities, providing a perfect environment for meaningful conversations and valuable connections.
VDS transforms our city into the global epicentre of innovation, attracting key players from the entrepreneurial ecosystem and consolidating Valencia’s position on the world stage, thanks to the Side Events that complement VDS during the months of October and November.
Information on 2026 Side Events coming soon.
The latest edition of VDS in numbers looked like this:
1,500+ Corporates
3,000+ Startups
800+ Investors
150+ Sponsors & Collaborators
2,500+ Meetings
Engage and connect with startups shaping the international landscape at the Business & investors Lounge, designed to foster meaningful networking and collaboration.
An intimate setting to share your interests and goals and fostering strategic partnerships that can propel your ventures forward.
If you’re driven to help shape a future where technology empowers creative individuals to build a brighter tomorrow, we want to hear from you.
The deadline to apply for the 2025 Call for Speakers has now passed. Stay tuned for the VDS 2026 edition.
The VDS Guest Reception serves as a gathering point for speakers, sponsors, investors and Startup Valencia partners to kick off each edition of VDS.
Exclusively access this event with your Investors Pass.
Envision 1-hour exclusive sessions where you have the opportunity to connect with carefully selected startups aligned with your interests.
These workshops offer flexibility with a tailored program, featuring stage presentations and catering options to ensure the most efficient use of your time in the framework of VDS.
Discover the ultimate networking experience at VDS with our private catering services. Indulge in an exclusive culinary experience while connecting with like-minded professionals in a luxurious setting.
Our private catering offerings for corporates are designed to enhance your networking opportunities, providing a perfect environment for meaningful conversations and valuable connections.
VDS transforms our city into the global epicentre of innovation, attracting key players from the entrepreneurial ecosystem and consolidating Valencia’s position on the world stage, thanks to the Side Events that complement VDS during the months of October and November.
Information on 2026 Side Events coming soon.
Capital4Startups is a Startup Valencia initiative through which startups can make themselves eligible for investment from a selection of funds and family offices.
With your Investors Pass, you can become one of the top affiliated funds in this initiative, driven in collaboration with SpainCap.
The latest edition of VDS in numbers looked like this:
3,000+ Startups
800+ Investors
300B+ Under Management
2,500+ Meetings
Entities supporting VDS
An exceptional array of international tech companies, leading investment funds and top-tier media outlets are backing us in this endeavor.
45+
Sponsors
80+
Collaborators
800+
Investors
Choose your pass now
Discover the VDS experience with our tailored ticket options: Attendee, Business, and Investor. Each pass is designed to unlock unique opportunities and insights, whether you're here to learn, network, or invest in the future of technology.
Attendee
Pass
Enjoy access to all VDS stages with carefully curated content across diverse topics, schedule one-on-one meetings with top investors, corporates, and startups, and explore the entire exhibition area to fully immerse yourself in the tech event.
Business
Pass
Get access to business dedicated networking areas, connect and network with other ecosystem players at the Chill Out Area and benefit from faster access when arriving at the event.
Investor
Pass
Gain exclusive access to dedicated areas for investors to network and discuss potential investment opportunities and explore the groundbreaking strategies presented by the 10 finalists of the VDS Startup Competition.
Become a sponsor or exhibitor
Connect with the international tech ecosystem, increase your visibility and grow your business by meeting new partners, clients and hundreds of potential prospects.
Become a sponsor or exhibitor
Connect with the international tech ecosystem, increase your visibility and grow your business by meeting new partners, clients and hundreds of potential prospects.
