IE Silicon Valley Hub Launch: Connecting Europe and Silicon Valley
We invite you to join IE University, in collaboration with CITRIS and the Banatao Institute, for the launch of the IE Silicon Valley Hub at Sutardja Dai Hall, UC Berkeley, on November 17–18, 2026.
This new transatlantic initiative connects Europe and Silicon Valley through education, research, innovation and venture building. Whether you work in technology, business, education or investment—or are simply curious about these topics—we welcome you to join the conversation.
Hosted by Ikhlaq Sidhu, Dean of IE School of Science & Technology, the launch will bring together leaders from academia, industry, venture capital, and entrepreneurs. Participants will explore perspectives on artificial intelligence, emerging technologies and entrepreneurship.
Speakers and panelists include IE University President Santiago Íñiguez de Onzoño, Ikhlaq Sidhu, Alexandre Bayen, Rafif Srour, Michael Marks and Edo Segal.
Tuesday, November 17 | Hub Launch
3:30 PM: Arrival
4:00–6:00 PM: Launch program
6:00–6:30 PM: Networking reception
Wednesday, November 18 | Optional Interactive Workshops
9:00–11:00 AM
Continue the conversation through interactive workshops:
[YOU] on AI + X: From Using AI to Directing It
Join entrepreneur Edo Segal to explore how to direct AI, design workflows, evaluate outputs and identify where human judgment remains essential. Open to anyone interested in applying AI or leading AI-enabled transformation.
Building a Transatlantic Venture Bridge
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 professionals and interested participants are invited to contribute ideas that can help shape the Hub’s priorities and future initiatives.
Learn more about CITRIS and the Banatao Institute and IE School of Science & Technology’s IEX initiative.
We look forward to welcoming you!