More than 1,100 professionals from 78 countries have applied to speak at VDS 2025, with artificial intelligence emerging as the central theme in over 85% of submissions. These figures come from the ‘Call for Speakers’ for the eighth edition of the international tech event organized by Startup Valencia.
The call received a total of 1,170 proposals—marking a 30% increase in the number of countries represented compared to the previous year. Tech professionals and leaders from around the world have expressed their interest in participating in the conference, which will take place on October 22 and 23 at the iconic City of Arts and Sciences in Valencia.
The United States leads international representation, accounting for 4.19% of total proposals, followed by Germany (3.59%), the United Kingdom (3.59%), the Netherlands (2.65%), and Italy (2.48%). Non-European countries such as Argentina and India also stand out, reinforcing VDS’s global character and continued appeal to entrepreneurs, thought leaders, and innovators across all five continents.
Over half of the applicants come from the startup ecosystem, along with a significant presence from corporations (14%) and investors (10.34%). Notably, 30% of submissions came from women leaders, reflecting VDS’s commitment to diversity and to promoting female visibility in the tech industry.
The most common profile among applicants is that of CEO or founder (76.58%), followed by C-level executives (20%). All of them aim to share inspiring stories and insights that drive innovation, with a focus on how technology can improve people’s lives and transform society.
In terms of industry focus, standout areas include business and entrepreneurship (11.5%), social impact (8.35%), marketing, and healthcare.
As Juan Luis Hortelano, President of Startup Valencia, points out, “The growing interest VDS sparks each year among tech entrepreneurs and global leaders is further proof of its ability to position Valencia as a global epicenter of innovation.”
The VDS 2025 program will explore how technology is redefining our relationship with the world around us and delivering concrete solutions to major global challenges. Key trends such as generative artificial intelligence, augmented reality, personalization, and immersive experiences will take center stage, with direct applications in work, education, consumer behavior, and entertainment.
The full agenda, to be announced in September, will also feature content on emerging technologies such as quantum computing, nanotechnology, and photonics, which are positioned as drivers of change across multiple industries. The main themes of this edition include: Smart Cities and Digital Infrastructure, Next-Generation Consumer Technologies, Talent and the Future of Work, HealthTech and Longevity, the Future of Energy and GreenTech, DeepTech and Scientific Innovation, Aerospace Industry, Defense, and Cybersecurity.
