The SPIDER Final Conference is an international event that brings together policymakers, institutional leaders, research and education networks (NRENs), innovators, and international partners to engage with the future of EU–LAC digital cooperation.
Taking place on 14 & 15 April 2026 in Bonn, Germany, the conference creates a strategic space for dialogue, exchange, and networking around how digital transformation can be jointly shaped across Europe, Latin America, and the Caribbean, and in connection with partners from other regions.
While showcasing key insights and achievements from the SPIDER project, a Horizon Europe Initiative, the focus of the event goes beyond project results. Through inspiring keynotes, interactive panel discussions, and cross-regional exchanges, participants will explore emerging priorities, cooperation models, and shared challenges that will define the next phase of international digital collaboration.
Designed to encourage interaction between policy, infrastructure, research, and innovation communities, the SPIDER Final Conference offers a unique opportunity to connect with decision-makers, align initiatives, and contribute to shaping future cooperation pathways in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.
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Agenda at a glance
The SPIDER Final Conference programme brings together policy leadership, expert insight, and interactive exchange to explore the future of EU–LAC digital cooperation.
The day will open with policy perspectives from the European Commission, setting the strategic context for international digital cooperation. Participants will then engage with two keynote addresses on digital transformation beyond borders and the role of artificial intelligence in innovation ecosystems, alongside high-level panel discussions on regional and global cooperation models.
The programme also features focused reflections on the BELLA digital infrastructure, highlighting how connectivity and research networks can enable sustainable cross-regional collaboration, as well as discussions on inclusive and human-centred digital transformation and future cooperation pathways.
Dedicated networking moments throughout the day are designed to foster meaningful exchange and connections among policymakers, institutions, research networks, innovators, and international partners.
To explore the full agenda, click here.
INSTAR at the event
Rute Sofia (fortiss) will be participating on behalf of INSTAR to the 2nd Panel – Global Digital Transformation: Cooperation Beyond Regions, about international cooperation models, shared infrastructures, and partnership frameworks that support R&I collaboration beyond borders. She will talk about the EU-Australia, Canada, Japan, Singapore, South Korea, Taiwan and the USA Digital Partnership within INSTAR.
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