VivaTech, Europe’s biggest startup and tech event, visits Rio South Texas Region

The Council for South Texas Economic Progress (COSTEP) proudly hosted representatives from Viva Technology (VivaTech), one of Europe’s most influential innovation platforms, during a visit to the Rio South Texas Region to explore opportunities in advanced manufacturing and binational collaboration.

On Monday, Julie Lamandé, Head of Global Partnerships and Public Affairs at VivaTech, and Maud Lasfargues, Key Account Manager, met with regional leaders and manufacturing experts in an event organized by COSTEP.

Rick Carrera, COSTEP’s Director of Economic Development, emphasized the critical role of cross-border commerce between México and the United States in shaping the region’s growth and competitiveness.

Lamandé shared her positive impression of Rio South Texas:

“We felt opportunities to highlight this region because it’s very powerful regarding the business environment.”

For her part, Lasfargues highlighted the uniqueness of the partnership between México and the United States:

“It’s very impactful and powerful. Like in Europe, we don’t have those kinds of partnerships between two countries that strong.”

Both representatives thanked COSTEP for the invitation and expressed their interest in strengthening connections with local manufacturing leaders.

The event also welcomed leaders from across the region, including Adam Gonzalez, CEO of COSTEP; Alma Saldaña Cruz, Assistant Director of Economic Development for COSTEP; Crystal Kelly, Marketing & Communications Specialist for Alton Chamber of Commerce; Ivan Gonzalez, Economic Development Director for Alton Development Corporation; Oscar Chapa, President of Cruvia Consultants; Rene Gonzalez, Director of Development for Laredo College; Dr. Diana Y. Ortiz, Vice President of Institutional Advancement; Steven Valdez, Executive Director of EDC Weslaco; Richard Mesquias Jr., Vice President of External Relations and Workforce Development for Texas Southmost College (TSC); and Jeffrey Rosas, Coordinator of Los Fresnos CDC.

About Viva Technology

Viva Technology (VivaTech) is one of the world’s leading innovation and technology events, held annually in Paris since 2016. Organized by Publicis Groupe and Les Échos, VivaTech brings together startups, corporations, investors, and global leaders to showcase breakthrough technologies and explore the future of industries. Often referred to as Europe’s equivalent to CES in Las Vegas, the event attracts more than 150,000 participants from over 170 countries, with a focus on artificial intelligence, Industry 4.0, sustainable mobility, deeptech, and digital health.

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