IE Silicon Valley Hub Launch: Connecting Europe and Silicon Valley

IE University, in collaboration with CITRIS and the Banatao Institute, invites you to celebrate a new transatlantic initiative connecting Europe and Silicon Valley through learning, research, innovation and venture building. Join us at Sutardja Dai Hall in UC Berkeley for the launch of the IE Silicon Valley Hub!

The launch takes place on 17 November, followed on 18 November by optional interactive workshops for participants who want to explore the Hub in more depth.

Hosted by Ikhlaq Sidhu, Dean of IE School of Science & Technology, the two-day program will bring together leaders from academia, industry and venture capital, alongside students, alumni, researchers and entrepreneurs. Explore how collaboration across the Atlantic can advance education, emerging technologies and new ventures.

Hear perspectives on education and artificial intelligence, research and emerging technology, entrepreneurship and venture building. Speakers and panelists include Santiago Íñiguez de Onzoño, Ikhlaq Sidhu, Alexandre Bayen, Rafif Srour, Michael Marks and Edo Segal.

Day 1 · Tuesday, November 17 | Hub Launch
3:30 PM: Arrival 4:00–6:00 PM: Launch program 6:00–6:30 PM: Networking reception

Day 2 · Wednesday, November 18 | Optional Interactive Workshops
9:00–11:00 AM PT Continue the conversation through interactive workshops that turn ideas into practical experience:

[YOU] on AI + X: From Using AI to Directing It Ideal for alumni, prospective students, educators, executives and anyone interested in leading AI-enabled transformation.
Join entrepreneur Edo Segal to explore how to direct AI, design workflows, evaluate outputs and identify where human judgment remains essential. Ideal for alumni, prospective students, educators and executives. No coding experience is required.

Building a Transatlantic Venture Bridge Ideal for alumni, founders, investors, researchers, & industry leaders.
Join Ikhlaq Sidhu and Geoffroy Gérard to explore how Europe’s research and industrial expertise can connect with Silicon Valley’s venture ecosystem. Founders, investors, researchers, industry leaders and alumni are invited to help shape the Hub’s priorities and future initiatives.
CITRIS and the Banatao Institute - University of California
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