Top 10 Must-Attend Tech Meetups and Conferences in Spain
Last Updated: December 7th 2024
Too Long; Didn't Read:
Explore Spain's thriving tech scene with these top 10 tech meetups and conferences in cities like Barcelona, Madrid, and Malaga. With over 4,200 startups, these events offer invaluable networking, learning from industry leaders, and showcasing innovations. Notable events include Mobile World Congress, South Summit, and AI & Big Data Congress, featuring keynotes on 5G, AI, and sustainable innovation. Don't miss these opportunities to stay ahead in the tech world and connect with fellow enthusiasts and potential investors.
Tech meetups and conferences are a total gamechanger for leveling up your skills and expanding your professional circles. Spain's tech scene is absolutely on fire right now, with cities like Barcelona, Madrid, and Malaga emerging as major startup hubs.
According to the Spanish Startup Ecosystem Overview 2022 report, Spain is home to a whopping 4,200+ active startups, with Barcelona and Madrid ranking among Europe's top 20 startup cities.
When curating this list of events, we looked for ones that: cover the latest trends and technologies, feature influential speakers and industry leaders, offer prime networking opportunities, and showcase homegrown Spanish talent and innovations. With the Spanish tech ecosystem continuing to thrive, events like these are the perfect place to connect with like-minded professionals, learn from the best in the game, and stay ahead of the curve.
As the famous Silicon Valley investor Vinod Khosla once said,
"If you want to see the future, go to a conference."
With that in mind, get ready to dive into the top 10 must-attend tech meetups and conferences happening in Spain this year, because this nation's tech revolution is just getting started!
Table of Contents
- 1. Mobile World Congress (Barcelona)
- 2. South Summit (Madrid)
- 3. J On The Beach (Malaga)
- 4. T3chFest (Madrid)
- 5. CommitConf (Madrid)
- 6. Codemotion (Madrid)
- 7. PyConES (Location Varies)
- 8. Europython (Location Varies)
- 9. Tech Spirit Barcelona
- 10. AI & Big Data Congress (Barcelona)
- Conclusion and Future Events
- Frequently Asked Questions
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1. Mobile World Congress (Barcelona)
(Up)If you're into tech and want to be part of the latest mobile scene, Mobile World Congress (MWC) in Barcelona is an event you can't miss.
It's like the ultimate gathering for everything mobile, bringing together all the big players and innovators from around the world to showcase the coolest advancements and shape the future of mobile tech.
At MWC Barcelona 2024, you'll get to hear from some seriously inspiring keynote speakers and thought leaders.
We're talking big names like the CEOs of Microsoft, Ericsson, and Qualcomm, who dropped major knowledge on game-changing topics like 5G, AI, the metaverse, and sustainable innovation.
But MWC isn't just about the keynotes.
The massive exhibition halls are a playground for tech enthusiasts, packed with exhibitors showcasing their latest groundbreaking products and services. It's the perfect opportunity to network and connect with industry insiders.
And let's not forget the stacked program of seminars, workshops, and breakout sessions covering everything from IoT and cybersecurity to cutting-edge tech like 6G and blockchain.
Last year's highlights included sessions like "5G Unleashed: Exploring the Transformative Potential," "AI and Machine Learning: Revolutionizing Mobile Experiences," "The Future of Connectivity: Paving the Way for 6G," and "Cybersecurity in the 5G Era: Challenges and Solutions." This event is a total game-changer for anyone who wants to stay ahead of the curve in the ever-evolving mobile tech world.
2. South Summit (Madrid)
(Up)South Summit is one of the biggest startup events globally, and it goes down every year in Madrid, Spain. This tech gathering brings the world's most innovative companies, investors, and entrepreneurs under one roof.
Last year's edition was insane, with over 20,000 attendees from over 100 countries showing up to network and grow their businesses.
Major startups like Cabify, Glovo, and Mapfre have used South Summit as a launchpad, scoring funding and making connections that propelled their success.
Past winners and finalists of the startup competition have gone on to raise billions in investment and create thousands of jobs.
We're talking big-time investors like Accel, Index Ventures, and Balderton Capital scoping out the next unicorns.
But South Summit isn't just about the money – it's a knowledge fest too.
The 2024 agenda is stacked with workshops and talks covering everything from fundraising hacks to product innovation and growth strategies.
You'll get to learn from industry vets and connect with like-minded hustlers building the future. It's an unmissable experience for any ambitious entrepreneur looking to level up their game.
3. J On The Beach (Malaga)
(Up)J On The Beach is the ultimate yearly tech bash in Malaga, attracting coders, data geeks, and tech junkies from all corners of the globe.
This conference is all about Big Data, DevOps, and Data Science, bringing a stacked lineup of sessions, workshops, and prime networking moments for professionals and students alike.
At the heart of J On The Beach is a drive to spread knowledge and spark collaboration in the ever-changing tech realm.
Past events have seen mind-blowing keynotes from industry legends, covering a wide spectrum of topics like:
- Big Data: Cutting-edge techniques for data processing, analysis, and visualization.
- DevOps: Best ways to optimize software development, automation, and deployment.
- Data Science: Diving deep into machine learning algorithms, predictive modeling, and data-driven decision-making.
But that's not all! Attendees can get hands-on with workshops and training sessions led by experts.
These interactive gigs are the perfect opportunity to level up practical skills and gain a solid grasp of the latest tools and methods. Some standout workshops from previous years covered:
- Mastering Apache Spark for Big Data processing
- Building and deploying secure, scalable apps with Docker and Kubernetes
- Implementing machine learning models with Python and TensorFlow
J On The Beach is also a prime networking hotspot, fostering valuable connections between attendees, sponsors, and exhibitors.
From casual meetups to organized networking sessions, you can connect with like-minded techies, swap ideas, and explore potential collabs or career opportunities.
4. T3chFest (Madrid)
(Up)Get ready to dive into the T3chFest, an epic tech bash hosted by students and alumni at the University Carlos III of Madrid! This year's edition on March 14 & 15, 2024 was an absolute blast, attracting over 1,600 attendees and featuring mind-blowing talks on cutting-edge topics like Virtual Reality, Cloud Computing, Artificial Intelligence, and Web3.
It was the perfect spot for curious minds to explore the limits of innovation!
But T3chFest isn't just about geeking out on the latest tech trends; it's a place where university and business converge.
Companies like SNGULAR showcased their cutting-edge AI tech, generating hyper-realistic avatars that left everyone in awe. There were also killer coding challenges and a startup village where aspiring entrepreneurs could pitch their ideas to potential investors.
The best part? T3chFest is entirely organized by passionate students and alumni who pour their hearts into making it an unforgettable experience.
They spend countless hours curating tracks, planning hackathons, and ensuring every attendee has an absolute blast. It's a true labor of love, and their dedication shines through in every aspect of the event.
5. CommitConf (Madrid)
(Up)Get ready to level up your tech game, because CommitConf in Madrid is where all the cool devs and coding enthusiasts come together! This community-driven conference is a total vibe, covering the hottest trends in software development, AI, and cloud computing.
It's like a massive playground for nerds like us to geek out over the latest programming languages, frameworks, and cutting-edge technologies.
Imagine an entire event packed with mind-blowing sessions, workshops, and panel discussions led by industry legends.
You'll get to dive deep into topics like agile development, machine learning, natural language processing, cloud architectures, containerization, and so much more.
It's a golden opportunity to expand your skillset and stay ahead of the game.
But CommitConf isn't just about the technical stuff – it's also a chance to connect with like-minded peeps from all over.
Attendees rave about the engaging speakers and hands-on learning experiences, making it a total blast.
Plus, you never know who you might meet – maybe your future boss or coding bestie is just around the corner!
Beyond the sessions, CommitConf is a hub for networking, collaborating, and just having a good time with fellow techies.
It's the perfect place to explore job opportunities, discover new projects, and immerse yourself in a community of passionate developers. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting, this conference is a game-changer for anyone looking to stay ahead of the curve.
6. Codemotion (Madrid)
(Up)Check this out - Codemotion is where it's at for all the tech geeks out there! This massive event in Madrid is a total must if you're into the latest and greatest in the digital world.
We're talking cutting-edge stuff like AI, machine learning, cybersecurity, and way more. But it's not just about sitting through boring lectures - they've got hands-on workshops, coding challenges, and even hackathons to put your skills to the test.
One of the coolest things about Codemotion is the insane networking opportunities.
They had over 10,000 job interviews during the last event in 2022, so you know the big tech companies are there to scout fresh talent.
Plus, they've got this dedicated job fair where you can strut your stuff and maybe land that dream gig you've been chasing.
But it doesn't stop there! Codemotion keeps the party going all year round with free meetups and coding workshops across Spain.
It's like a never-ending celebration of everything tech, where you can connect with other nerds who share your passion. As one attendee put it,
"Codemotion is more than just a conference; it's a hub for the tech community to grow, learn, and thrive."
7. PyConES (Location Varies)
(Up)PyConES is the biggest Python conference in Spain, and it's an event you definitely don't want to miss! This year, it's happening from October 4th to 6th in Vigo, at the Auditorium Mar de Vigo.
Get ready for three days packed with mind-blowing talks, workshops, and opportunities to connect with Python enthusiasts from all over the country.
The lineup of speakers and topics is always impressive, covering everything from ethical AI and machine learning to optimizing Python performance for data-intensive workloads.
You'll walk away with your brain bursting with new knowledge and ideas. And the hands-on workshops? They're the perfect chance to level up your Python skills in areas like data science, web development with Django, and asynchronous programming.
But PyConES isn't just about the technical stuff – it's also a place to make connections and be part of the Python community.
There are lightning talks where people showcase their awesome Python projects, open spaces for spontaneous discussions and collaborations, and social events like the PyCode Night and PyConES Dinner.
It's a chance to meet like-minded people who share your passion for Python and maybe even find your next coding crew.
8. Europython (Location Varies)
(Up)Hey there, let's talk about EuroPython, the biggest Python event in Europe! It's been around since 2002, and this conference is a total blast if you're into coding with Python.
This year, it's happening from July 8th to 14th in the super cool city of Prague. Get ready for a week filled with tutorials, talks, and sprints covering everything from web dev to data science and AI.
One of the coolest parts is the First-Time Speaker's Workshop, where experienced speakers share tips on nailing your presentation.
And if you're new to public speaking, they even have a Mentorship Programme to help you out. The lineup of keynote speakers is fire, with names like Anna Přistoupilová, Armin Ronacher, and Sarah Davis dropping knowledge bombs.
But EuroPython isn't just about sitting through talks (although the content is top-notch).
It's also a prime opportunity to network with Python devs from all over the world. You can chill in the Hallway Track, attend social events like the PyLadies Lunch, or even explore Prague's vibrant nightlife together.
Who knows, you might just land your dream job or find your next coding buddy!
Whether you're a seasoned pro or a total newbie, EuroPython has something for everyone.
With hands-on workshops, lightning talks, and open spaces, you'll be learning and collaborating non-stop. And let's be real, where else can you geek out about Python with thousands of like-minded folks? Mark your calendars and get ready to experience the ultimate Python party in Prague!
9. Tech Spirit Barcelona
(Up)Get hyped for the Tech Spirit Barcelona - Health Edition! This iconic event is going all-in on the healthcare scene this year.
We're talking medical pros, health tech gurus, pharma bigwigs, and startup hustlers—all coming together for an epic meetup during Barcelona Innovation Health Week.
It's like a gigantic brain merge between the best minds shaping the future of healthcare.
The lineup is straight fire, with keynotes like "Insights & Market Forces in Health Tech" by the big dawgs at McKinsey & Partners.
You'll also catch panels diving deep into mind-blowing topics like AI applications in health and digital strategy for pharma companies. But that's just the tip of the iceberg – get ready for startup pitches, panels on healthcare innovation, and the lowdown on tech giants' master plans for the health sector.
What makes Tech Spirit Barcelona so epic is how it brings the local innovative squad together for real.
It's an electrifying atmosphere where fresh ideas spark, collaborations ignite, and you might just meet your future co-founder or investor. As Matthew Martinez from the volunteer crew puts it, "Tech Spirit is more than an event; it's a celebration of our city's hustle and a platform for growth." This is where Barcelona's startup community comes to slay, so don't sleep on securing your spot and getting inspired by the unstoppable energy.
10. AI & Big Data Congress (Barcelona)
(Up)The AI & Big Data Congress in Barcelona is going to be a major event this October! It's the 10th anniversary edition, so they're really going all out.
During the first day, we'll hear from big names like Rika Nakazawa from NTT DATA on how AI and sustainability can team up.
They're even honoring AI pioneer Ramon López de Mántaras for his lifetime achievements. On day two, we'll dive deep into the latest tech trends like generative AI, multimodal models, and quantum computing in various sessions.
To celebrate the 10-year milestone, there's going to be an anniversary party at Sala Bikini after the first day's sessions! Can't wait to network and learn about some killer business initiatives at this thing.
Pretty much every major company and expert in AI will be there, so it's a can't-miss event if you're serious about getting into this field.
Conclusion and Future Events
(Up)Tech junkies! We're about to dive into the hottest tech conferences and meetups happening in Spain.
These events are a total game-changer, giving you the chance to level up your skills, expand your network, and stay ahead of the curve.
First up, let's talk about why you should mark your calendars for these epic gatherings.
Tech events are like a playground for the big brains – you get to rub shoulders with industry leaders, pick their genius minds, and walk away feeling like a total badass.
Plus, it's the perfect spot to impress potential employers or investors with your mad skills.
Now, how do you find out about these must-attend shindigs? Easy peasy – follow the event organizers on social media, scour online directories like Meetup and Eventbrite, and get cozy with local tech communities.
They'll hook you up with all the deets, from dates to venues.
But here's the real deal – you gotta go in with a game plan. Set some solid goals, whether it's learning about the latest tech trends, networking like a boss, or pitching that brilliant startup idea you've been cooking up.
Do your homework, research the speakers and attendees, and come prepared to slay.
Once you're there, it's time to shine! Ask questions, engage in discussions, and introduce yourself to everyone you can.
This is your chance to make connections that could lead to epic job opportunities or collaborations. And don't forget to follow up after the event – you never know where those new relationships might take you.
Get out there and immerse yourself in the tech world! These events are the ultimate way to kickstart your tech career in Spain and join the ranks of the tech elite.
Trust us, you won't regret it!
- Connect with industry leaders: These events are perfect to rub shoulders with industry leaders.
- Learn the latest trends: Stay updated with the latest trends by attending discussions and keynotes.
- Network like a boss: Networking opportunities are abundant; be prepared to make valuable connections.
- Impress potential employers: Showcase your skills and impress potential employers or investors.
- Prepare and Set Goals: Go in with a game plan to maximize the benefits of attending.
These events are the ultimate way to kickstart your tech career in Spain and join the ranks of the tech elite.
Frequently Asked Questions
(Up)Why should I attend tech meetups and conferences in Spain?
Attending tech meetups and conferences in Spain can significantly level up your skills, expand your professional networks, and keep you ahead of the curve with the latest industry trends. These events offer prime opportunities to connect with industry leaders, showcase your talents, and explore potential collaborations.
What are some notable tech events to attend in Spain?
Some notable tech events to attend in Spain include Mobile World Congress in Barcelona, South Summit in Madrid, J On The Beach in Malaga, and T3chFest in Madrid. Each event offers unique opportunities to learn from influential speakers, engage in workshops, and network with tech enthusiasts and professionals.
How can I maximize the benefits of attending these tech events?
To maximize the benefits of attending tech events, set clear goals such as learning about industry trends, building connections, or pitching startup ideas. Research speakers and attendees, prepare questions, and actively participate in workshops and discussions to gain the most from your experience.
What types of sessions and activities can I expect at these conferences?
Tech conferences in Spain often include keynotes from industry leaders, workshops on topics like AI, machine learning, and cybersecurity, exhibitions of new technologies, startup pitches, and networking sessions. These activities are designed to enhance learning, engagement, and professional connections.
Where can I find more information on upcoming tech meetups and conferences in Spain?
To stay informed about upcoming tech meetups and conferences in Spain, follow event organizers on social media, check online directories such as Meetup and Eventbrite, and engage with local tech communities. These platforms provide detailed information on event dates, venues, and registration details.
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Chevas Balloun
Director of Marketing & Brand
Chevas has spent over 15 years inventing brands, designing interfaces, and driving engagement for companies like Microsoft. He is a practiced writer, a productivity app inventor, board game designer, and has a builder-mentality drives entrepreneurship.