Yesterday, October 6, 2025, the X4HPC network hosted its Annual Conference at Pier07 in Barcelona, gathering researchers, collaborators, and key stakeholders from Catalonia’s high-performance computing (HPC) ecosystem for a day of reflection, discussion, and forward momentum.
The event marked a pivotal moment: reviewing three impactful years of the X4HPC Network while launching the 2025 edition of the Innovation Journey program. Attendees engaged in substantive exchanges on HPC, AI, and deep tech, fostering new ideas and strengthening ties within our vibrant community.
Key Highlights from the Day
- Institutional Welcome: The conference kicked off with opening remarks from Cristian Canton, Associate Director at Barcelona Supercomputing Center (BSC); Lourdes Puigbarraca, Deputy Director General of Transfer and Knowledge Society at the Department of Research and Universities; and Rosa Maria Sebastián Pérez, Vice-Rector of Innovation, Transfer, and Entrepreneurship at Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB).
- X4HPC Annual Assembly: Maria Rosés Guix, X4HPC Manager at BSC, led a comprehensive review of the network’s milestones and achievements over the past three years. Participants also received updates on ongoing initiatives and plans extending through the end of 2025.
- Deep Tech Entrepreneurship Roundtable: Moderated by Mariona Sanz Ausàs, Director of Innovation and Business Development at BSC, this session featured insights from Carlos Trenchs Sainz de la Maza (MASIA) and Xavier Ferràs (ESADE) on the distinct challenges and opportunities in scaling deep tech ventures.
- Innovation Journey Kick-Off: Júlia Masvidal Andreu officially unveiled the fourth edition of the Innovation Journey program, set to accelerate 15 promising projects from BSC and X4HPC Network members, emphasizing technology transfer and market exploration.
- Technology Transfer & Innovation Networks Roundtable: Moderated by Anna Escoda, Director of the Technology Transfer Office at BSC, discussions highlighted the strategic role of X4HPC in advancing HPC and AI innovation. Contributors included Cristina Horcajada from IRB Barcelona, Sancho Moro from Universitat de Barcelona, Mariona Esquerdo from Vall d’Hebron Institute of Research (VHIR), and Javier Marcipar from CIMNE.
- BSC AI Factory Update: Mariona Sanz provided an overview of the latest developments in the BSC AI Factory, outlining how researchers, spin-offs, and industry partners can access its cutting-edge services to drive collaborative advancements.
Beyond the sessions, the day offered invaluable networking opportunities during lunch and informal gatherings, underscoring the network’s strength in transforming research into real-world impact.
We extend our deepest gratitude to all speakers, organizers, and participants for their contributions—your expertise and enthusiasm elevated the event to new heights.
As we move forward, X4HPC remains committed to cultivating a robust, interconnected ecosystem for HPC innovation. Stay tuned for more updates on the Innovation Journey 2025 and upcoming activities.
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