Viva Technology visits the Rio South Texas Region to strengthen ties with local manufacturing

The Council for South Texas Economic Progress (COSTEP) hosted representatives from Viva Technology, one of Europe’s most influential innovation platforms, during a visit to the Rio South Texas Region to explore opportunities in advanced manufacturing and binational collaboration.

On Monday, Julie Lamandé, Head of Global Partnerships and Public Affairs at Viva Technology, and Maud Lasfargues, Key Account Manager, met with regional leaders and manufacturing experts in an event organized by COSTEP.

Rick Carrera, COSTEP’s Director of Economic Development, emphasized the critical role that cross-border commerce between México and the United States plays in shaping the growth and competitiveness of the South Texas region.

Lamandé highlighted her positive impression of the region, noting its strategic position and business potential. “We felt opportunities to highlight this region because it’s very powerful regarding the business environment,” she said.

For her part, Lasfargues pointed out the uniqueness of the partnership between México and the United States. “It’s very impactful and powerful. Like in Europe, we don’t have those kinds of partnerships between two countries that strong,” she remarked.

Both representatives concluded by thanking COSTEP for the invitation and underlined their interest in continuing to strengthen connections with local manufacturing leaders.

Also in attendance were Adam Gonzalez, CEO of COSTEP; Alma Saldaña Cruz, Assistant Director of Economic Development for COSTEP; Crystal Kelly, Marketing & Communications Specialist for Alton Chamber of Commerce; Ivan Gonzalez, Economic Development Director for Alton Development Corporation; Oscar Chapa, President of Cruvia Consultants; Rene Gonzalez, Director of Development for Laredo College; Dr. Diana Y. Ortiz, Vice President of Institutional Advancement; Steven Valdez, Executive Director of EDC Weslaco; Richard Mesquias Jr., Vice President of External Relations and Workforce Development for Texas Southmost College (TSC); and Jeffrey Rosas, Coordinator of Los Fresnos CDC.

About Viva Technology

Viva Technology (VivaTech) is one of the world’s leading innovation and technology events, held annually in Paris since 2016. Organized by Publicis Groupe and Les Échos, the event brings together startups, corporations, investors, and global leaders to showcase breakthrough technologies and explore the future of industries. Often referred to as Europe’s equivalent to CES in Las Vegas, VivaTech attracts more than 150,000 participants from over 170 countries and focuses on key topics such as artificial intelligence, Industry 4.0, sustainable mobility, deeptech, and digital health.