Rio South Texas Region Promoted at VivaTech 2025, Europe’s Leading Tech Event
By Editorial Staff
June 13, 2025
The Council for South Texas Economic Progress (COSTEP) took part in the ninth edition of Viva Technology, held from June 11 to 14, 2025, in Paris, France. Recognized as Europe’s largest event for innovation and technology, VivaTech welcomed over 165,000 in-person attendees, 3,500 exhibitors, and 400 international speakers, including leaders from companies such as Apple, Google, Amazon Web Services, Huawei, and Nvidia, alongside prominent startups and investment funds.
COSTEP’s presence at VivaTech 2025 aimed to position the Rio South Texas Region as a strategic destination for foreign direct investment—particularly in high-tech sectors such as advanced manufacturing, aerospace, electronics, and medical devices.
Adam Gonzalez, CEO of COSTEP, explained that the participation was part of an international promotion strategy designed to strengthen the region’s competitiveness:
“We wanted to promote Rio South Texas as an attractive location for tech companies looking to expand or relocate operations in the U.S., especially in Texas. This mission to VivaTech was key to expanding our reach in Europe.”
Throughout the event, the COSTEP team engaged in meetings with emerging startups, global corporations, binational chambers of commerce, and international tech ecosystem leaders. They also joined exclusive networking sessions hosted by the French-American Chamber of Commerce and VivaTech organizers, where they promoted investment opportunities in North America.
“Many people in Europe are still unfamiliar with our region’s competitive advantages. VivaTech was a valuable opportunity to highlight our assets: logistical connectivity, skilled workforce, industrial infrastructure, and strategic proximity to the U.S. market,” Gonzalez emphasized.
While in Paris, the COSTEP delegation also worked to build relationships with companies interested in nearshoring and innovation-driven expansion projects. The organization presented promotional materials, success stories, and offered personalized guidance to prospective investors.
By participating in VivaTech 2025, COSTEP reaffirmed its commitment to advancing regional economic development through the attraction of innovative businesses and the strengthening of international partnerships. The mission also served as a platform to initiate future collaborations with European institutions exploring a presence in South Texas.