Claudio Schwarz for unsplash
I am observing a clear shift. The convergence of AI, quantum, and high-performance computing infrastructure has started to move from a research horizon to an operational reality. The questions that follow are no longer purely technical. They concern which countries, institutions, and companies are positioned to build with this hybrid innovation, and which will depend on others who did.
The UK sits in an interesting place in that picture. It is strong on research and early-stage capability, with genuine depth in quantum and AI. Its bilateral framework with Europe is also now more purposeful than it has been for some time, since the reset of the last eighteen months.
Italy, in particular, has made significant moves: the SOL quantum computer at CINECA, the IT4LIA AI Factory, a National Quantum Strategy. It is becoming a serious European player in advanced computing infrastructure, and it is looking for partners.
Italy is the founding location but the ambition is European. The aim is not panels, but originating concrete projects to meet the needs of the next decade and beyond. We're thrilled to partner with the University of Warwick on this edition, which is hosted at Palazzo Lolin on 2nd October 2026.
You can read more here.
We're building the room carefully before anything else. If this resonates, we'd love to hear from you. Drop a line to ponti@stateup.co.
