Interview with Raúl Cascajo, Environment Director, and Pilar Agramunt, Technical Director at VPI Logística
1. How was this need identified, and why does this challenge matter to VPI?
The ZAL (Logistics Activity Zone) of the Port of València is currently in early operational phase. In this context, we identified a major opportunity: to define, from the very beginning, an intelligent model for access control, security and mobility supported by the most advanced technologies, rather than adding isolated solutions as new needs emerged.
ZAL brings together multiple logistics operators, and a variety of traffic flows will circulate through its facilities. We are also connected to the Fuente de San Luis Logistics Node via a road link, all within an urban-like environment that limits many traditional solutions.
At VPI, we want the ZAL to become a benchmark for innovation and sustainability within the port-logistics sector, and this challenge represents a major opportunity to move in that direction.
2. Beyond the event, what would it mean for VPI to find a strong solution to this challenge?
For us, this is not a theoretical exercise. ZAL is already a reality, and we want to equip it with technological tools that improve its operations and make it a more efficient, safe and sustainable space.
We are looking for solutions that incorporate real-time monitoring, automation, data analytics and even artificial intelligence applied to operational management. Ultimately, this is a long-term strategic commitment to building the logistics model of the future.
3. If the solution works at ZAL, where else could it be applied? What market potential do you see?
The potential is enormous. Many logistics parks across Spain and the rest of Europe face very similar challenges: heavy traffic, the coexistence of multiple operators, the need for digitalisation, and ever-growing requirements around security and data protection.
A solution capable of performing in an environment like ZAL of the Port of València would have strong replication potential across other logistics and port areas throughout Europe.
For a startup, this represents a highly attractive opportunity to position itself in a sector with significant growth prospects. The startup that manages to solve this challenge could become a true frontrunner in smart solutions for logistics environments, with enormous scalability and expansion potential in the European market.
4. What will set apart the proposal that makes you say "this is exactly what we were looking for"?
We are not necessarily looking for the most technically complex solution, but the one that best understands the real operational context.
We will particularly value proposals that are straightforward to implement and operate, precise, scalable, and designed with the people who will work at the ZAL every day in mind. It will also be essential that they integrate privacy and cybersecurity criteria by design.
And, of course, the ability to integrate with existing technologies and systems will carry significant weight, demonstrating a practical, business-oriented vision.
5. For a startup that impresses with its proposal: what could happen after the hackathon?
The hackathon is not the end: it's the beginning. If a proposal aligns with our needs, VPI could move towards a real pilot in a defined operational environment, with concrete objectives and measurable outcomes.
Our goal is not to stop at ideas, but to explore solutions that can actually be implemented and generate real impact on logistics operations.
6. If you could speak directly to a startup that's on the fence about applying, what would you say?
Don't hesitate: go for it!
ZAL of the Port of València is an infrastructure just starting its operations, with real challenges ready to be tackled.
It's an opportunity to collaborate directly with those who manage the environment, validate solutions in an operational context, and be part of a project with genuine potential to become a pilot and grow in the market.
If you have an idea capable of transforming the management of urban logistics environments, this is the place to prove it.
More information: Valenciaport Hackathon: https://www.opentop.es/valenciaport-startup-hackathon-2026