INSIDE Connect 2026
The INSIDE Connect 2026 event — from 30 September to 1 October, 2026
European Digital Systems Roadmapping Forum
We are absolutely delighted to invite the global INSIDE community to join us in Palermo, Southern
Italy, for the upcoming Roadmapping Forum.
This remarkable city offers a truly distinctive setting that pairs a robust academic and research
foundation with an incredibly vibrant, layered cultural backdrop.
INSIDE Connect 2026 is where our interdisciplinary, inclusive, and forward-thinking community comes together to anticipate what lies ahead, defining a collective vision that strengthens our impact, influence, and identity in a rapidly changing world.
This is where connections become direction!
Army Officers’ Club
P.za Sant’Oliva, 25, 90141 Palermo PA, Italy
It’s time to connect!
During INSIDE Connect 2026, you can expect two inspiring days filled with insightful keynotes, interactive workshops, industry showcases, and meaningful networking opportunities. The program is designed to connect ideas, people, and innovation across Europe’s digital ecosystem.
Below is what you can expect:
Programme
This programme is currently a draft and may be updated as sessions and speakers are confirmed.
Day 1 – Wednesday – 30 September 2026
| Time | Session |
|---|---|
| 08:30 – 09:00 | Registration & welcome coffee Arrival & networking kick-off |
| 09:00 – 09:30 | Opening plenary: shaping Europe’s future |
| 09:30 – 10:00 |
National and Regional Strategies for Digital Innovation
|
| 10:00 – 10:45 | State of affairs: Chips Act 2.0, MFF/ECF/FP10, WP 2027 |
| 10:45 – 11:15 |
Networking break: connect & exchange Projects exhibition |
| 11:15 – 12:15 | Global semiconductor power shift: Europe, US & China |
| 12:15 – 12:45 |
Keynote Breaking limits: reinventing computing through innovation |
| 12:45 – 14:00 |
Network lunch & technology showcase Projects exhibition |
| 14:00 – 14:30 |
Keynote Nature-inspired computing: the next frontier |
| 14:30 – 15:30 |
Parallel sessions
Session 1
Autonomous systems
Session 2
Engineering the next generation of European chips
|
| 15:30 – 16:00 |
Networking break: connect & exchange Projects exhibition |
| 16:00 – 17:30 |
Parallel sessions
Session 1 · 16:00 – 17:30
Software-defined-X: the future of digital systems
Session 2 · Two consecutive sessions
16:00 – 16:45
Scientific Council
Emerging technologies and future research directions
16:45 – 17:30
Business development session
Turning innovation into business opportunities
|
| 17:30 – 18:15 | Free time |
| 18:15 – 20:00 | Discovering Palermo: heritage & innovation walk |
| 20:00 – Late | Evening networking dinner |
Day 2 – Thursday – 1 October 2026
| Time | Session |
|---|---|
| 08:30 – 09:00 |
Networking break: connect & exchange Projects exhibition |
| 09:00 – 10:45 |
Parallel sessions
Session 1
Mobility
Next-generation mobility: AI, software & connectivity
Session 2
CEI-Sphere
CEI-Sphere deep dive – Edge to cloud in industrial optimization and productivity
|
| 10:45 – 11:00 |
Networking break: connect & exchange Projects exhibition |
| 11:00 – 13:00 |
Parallel thematic workshops
Thematic workshop 1
Autonomous systems
Thematic workshop 2
European engineering toolchain
|
| 13:00 – 14:00 |
Network lunch & technology showcase Projects exhibition |
| 14:00 – 16:00 |
Parallel thematic workshops
Thematic workshop 3
Trustworthy & resilient cyber-physical SoS
Thematic workshop 4
Open ECS architectures
|
| 16:00 | Closing session: shaping the next steps of INSIDE ecosystem |
Cultural Tour
Join us for a memorable cultural and social experience in the vibrant city of Palermo.
We believe that the best professional connections are often made outside the lecture hall. To enrich your experience in Palermo, our social programme will begin with a carefully curated, guided cultural itinerary through the city’s historic centre. Designed specifically to be engaging yet time-efficient for an international audience, this walk will guide you through stunning Arab-Norman landmarks, bustling traditional markets, and vibrant central streets, allowing you to discover the city’s visible layers of history together.
Date: 30-09
Social Dinner
Following the cultural tour, the evening will culminate in the official Social Dinner, hosted at the magnificent Palazzo Fatta. Located in the heart of the city, this stunning aristocratic residence provides an exceptionally elegant and authentic Sicilian backdrop. It is the perfect prestigious setting to enjoy an unforgettable evening of fine dining, celebrate the day’s insights, and continue networking in an atmosphere of historic grandeur.
Let’s share great food, laughter, and community spirit together!
Date: 30-09
Palermo stands as a historic cultural crossroads, having been deeply shaped over the centuries by Greek, Roman, Arab, Norman, and Spanish influences. This incredible diversity has left a permanent, fascinating mark on the city’s architecture, its everyday energy, and its world-renowned cuisine.
Experience the atmosphere of our upcoming INSIDE Connect in Palermo.
Stay Nearby with Exclusive Rates!
Palermo boasts a comprehensive and diverse range of accommodation options designed to suit various travel policies, stay patterns, and personal preferences. Whether you prefer the charm of the historic centre, the sweeping views along the seafront promenade, or the relaxed coastal atmosphere of the Mondello area, there is a perfect location for your stay. Delegates can easily choose from trusted international hotel brands, unique boutique properties infused with local character, and highly accessible budget options.
Below are our selected accommodation recommendations for attendees visiting the event. These hotels have been chosen to help make your stay more comfortable and convenient, with options suitable for different preferences and budgets. We encourage guests to review the available options and book early to secure their preferred accommodation during the event period.
Please, Our advise is to book your hotel asap
Moments from INSIDE Connect 2025
A glimpse of the previous event, where the community gathered in Málaga for two days of keynotes, workshops, showcases, and cultural activities focused on collaboration and digital innovation in Europe.
Be part of it: register now
