Program Structure
Over three days in November 2025, the Tech Diplomacy & Leadership Program immerses participants in the unique intersection of technology, diplomacy, and global leadership.
Through expert keynotes, interactive interviews, and a hands-on workshop, participants will explore emerging technologies, governance frameworks, and the dynamics of the Silicon Valley ecosystem.
The program features leading voices from academia, industry, and policy who bring real-world perspectives on AI, cybersecurity, innovation ecosystems, and tech diplomacy in action.
Navigating Innovation: Where Silicon Valley Meets Tech Diplomacy & AI Governance
WELCOMING WORDS
by Orestis Trasanidis, Director of EIT Hub Silicon Valley and Silke English, Program Lead of Mission Innovation 2025
SESSION: DEEP TECH FOUNDATIONS & ECOSYSTEM ORIENTATION
by Orestis Trasanidis
Cut through the jargon with a clear introduction to deep tech fundamentals and the acronyms that shape today’s innovation landscape. Build the foundation you need to engage confidently in conversations on AI, blockchain, quantum, and beyond.
SESSION: INTRO TO TECH DIPLOMACY (AND INNOVATION ECOSYSTEMS)
by Silke English
Unpack how tech diplomacy operates at the intersection of governments, startups, and innovation hubs. See how ecosystems like Silicon Valley become platforms for collaboration, negotiation, and global influence.
SESSION/INTERVIEW HYBRID: AI GOVERNANCE
by Joanna Smolinksa
Gain an insider’s perspective on the daily realities of AI governance through an expert interview. Understand how global policies are shaped and applied in practice.
IN-PERSON ONLY: NETWORKING AND WELCOMING EVENT
BE BOLD, BUILD WISELY: HOW CREATIVE THINKING BRIDGES TECH AND DIPLOMACY
in conversation with Gadi Amit and David Hubert 6:00PM to 8:00PM at NewDealDesign Studio (333 Bryant Street, San Francisco)
From Principle to Playbook: Governing Tech That Moves Fast
SESSION: TECH GOVERNANCE POLICY & REGULATORY FRAMEWORKS
by Andrea Renda
As technology continues to evolve, so do the regulatory frameworks that govern it. This session will dive into vital questions: How to approach tech governance, and what ethical considerations arise from Deep Tech developments? We'll discuss the inconsistencies in egulatory environments and learn from real-world case studies.
INTERACTIVE SESSION: TECH LEADERSHIP - PUBLIC–PRIVATE PARTNERSHIPS, INNOVATION DIPLOMACY, TECH TRANSFER
by Gregory LaBlanc
Effective leadership is crucial in today’s tech landscape. This session will focus on essential questions: What strategies are effective for managing crises in tech, and how can emotional intelligence enhance your leadership skills? We’ll address common challenges in crisis management and negotiation.
CONVERSATION: FUNDING THE (AI) FUTURE - INVESTING IN GLOBAL INNOVATION
with Yiwen Li, Ben Bartlett and George Panagiotakopoulos moderated by Silke English
This conversation explores how capital, policy, and diplomacy shape the next wave of AI innovation. From sovereign funds to venture investment and startup soft-landing programs, we will discuss how governments and founders engage with Silicon Valley to scale responsibly, attract strategic capital, and build globally competitive AI ecosystems. The focus is on practical insights for navigating cross-border investment, geopolitical complexity, and the emerging role of tech diplomacy in funding the future.
OPTIONAL: NETWORKING LUNCH
at The Faculty Club (University of California, 1 Faculty Club #6050, Berkeley)
Tech Leadership and Diplomacy in Action
SESSION/INTERVIEW HYBRID: TECH DIPLOMACY
with Christina Steinbrecher-Pfandt and Silke English
A focused dive into what tech diplomacy truly means today. This session examines how governments, industry, and civil society shape global technology governance and navigate challenges around AI, data, trust, and geopolitical influence, featuring insights from the CEO of the Tech Diplomacy Network.
SESSION/INTERVIEW HYBRID: CYBERSECURITY/DEFENCE TECH FOCUS
with Andrew W. Reddie
Get a concise overview of the latest in cybersecurity and defense technology from an expert in the field. Learn how these rapidly evolving domains impact global security and diplomacy.
CAPTSTONE WORKSHOP: TECH DIPLOMACY PLAYBOOK
with Silke English
Bring together everything you’ve learned over the course of the program in this interactive workshop. Work with peers to translate insights into concrete strategies for real-world tech diplomacy and leadership challenges.
Exclusive benefits for in-person attendees
- Networking reception with Bay Area policy, tech, and innovation leaders.
- Direct access to speakers and experts during sessions and breaks for in-depth exchange.
- Full participation in all 3 program days (expert keynotes, interactive interviews, and hands-on capstone workshop).
- Small cohort format designed for high-level peer interaction and lasting professional connections.
*Program is subject to change
Contact & information
To inquire about the course, registrations and discounts, please contact: contact@eithubsv.eu.
