PEIC is launching a new format for its fourth edition. For the first time, the Port Entrepreneurship International Congress will take place across two days: October 20 and 21, 2026, in Valencia, Spain; offering the most innovative startups in the port and logistics sector a richer experience, with more opportunities for international visibility, curated matchmaking and access to the global port innovation ecosystem.
Applications are open until July 13.
Four editions and one mission that has never changed: connecting innovators in the port and logistics sector with the ports, corporations and investors capable of scaling their solutions globally.
The fourth edition of the Port Entrepreneurship International Congress introduces a significant new development: for the first time, PEIC takes place across two days October 20 and 21, 2026, in Valencia, Spain; with two complementary formats designed to maximise the impact of every participating company.
Day 1: October 20: PEIC Resilience Forum
The first day takes place at the Port Authority of Valencia premises and is dedicated entirely to port resilience. The PEIC Resilience Forum is an exclusive gathering built around intensive matchmaking: 1-to-1 meetings, thematic panels, firesides and other activities designed to bring open innovation closer to the people who need it most.
It is a high-level, curated space where selected startups can sit down with international port innovation leaders, maritime corporations and active investors.
A unique opportunity for innovators working in the field of port resilience.
Day 2: October 21: PEIC Congress
The second day takes place at the City of Arts and Sciences in Valencia, within the Valencia Digital Summit (VDS) one of Europe's leading technology gatherings.
The format features a high-impact plenary day combining Innovation Lighthouses (thematic sessions where selected startups present their solutions alongside industry experts), live demo slots, keynotes, a venture capital session and the PEIC Awards ceremony, where the audience votes live for their standout innovation.
The full agenda will be revealed shortly. What is already certain: every element will be designed to spark meaningful conversations that lead somewhere real.
What selected startups get
Being part of PEIC 2026 means much more than taking the stage. Selected startups gain access to:
International visibility in front of port and logistics innovation leaders, corporations and global venture capital investors.
Curated matchmaking and quality networking across one or two days, depending on the selection process.
The chance to compete for the PEIC Audience Award, chosen by live audience vote.
Valencia Digital Summit passes
A visit to the Port of Valencia, one of the Mediterranean's most important logistics hubs.
PEIC Networking Dinner. · ...and more to be announced.
Who should apply
The call is open to startups, scale-ups and tech SMEs with a functional product or MVP and a clear connection to the port and maritime-logistics sector.
October 20 is dedicated exclusively to port resilience. For the plenary day on October 21, relevant areas also include blue economy; supply chain efficiency; and sustainability, decarbonisation and energy transition, in addition to resilience, safety and security.
Key dates
Application deadline: Monday, July 13, 2026 · 23:59 CEST
Notification to the 20 selected companies: Friday, July 30, 2026
Selected companies must confirm their participation by Monday, August 17, 2026
If necessary, a waiting list will be activated and communicated in due course to the relevant applicants.
Questions? We are happy to help, write to us at hello@opentop.es