Building & Construction Events in Barcelona

Smart City Expo World Congress

Smart City Expo World Congress: Leading the Future of Urban Innovation

Since its inception in 2011, the Smart City Expo World Congress has grown into the most influential event for urban innovation globally. Held annually in Barcelona, this premier gathering of changemakers brings together policymakers, technology companies, academics, and urbanists from over 140 countries to collaborate, exchange ideas, and inspire transformative change in the way cities are built and managed.

In a world facing climate emergencies, rapid urbanization, aging infrastructure, and social inequality, Smart City Expo serves as a beacon of possibility—an international platform that does more than talk about the future; it helps shape it. By empowering cities through innovation, this event acts as a catalyst for creating more sustainable, resilient, and inclusive urban environments.

The Power of the Smart City Ecosystem

At the heart of the Congress is the idea that cities should not only be smarter, but also more human-centric. The Expo provides the perfect venue for developing an ecosystem where government leaders, civic tech companies, researchers, NGOs, and investors can come together to address the most pressing challenges cities face today.

This includes themes such as:

   Urban mobility and intelligent transport systems

   Circular economy and waste management

   Smart infrastructure and connected buildings

   Public-private data collaboration

   Inclusive governance and citizen participation

By bridging the public and private sectors, Smart City Expo offers an environment that enables experimentation, cross-sectoral dialogue, and rapid implementation of forward-thinking urban strategies.

A Global Gathering with Local Impact

Spanning more than 50,000 square meters of exhibition space, the Congress is designed for active engagement. Every year, it draws over 25,000 participants and features 800+ exhibitors, including some of the world’s largest technology and innovation brands. From emerging startups to established Fortune 500 companies, the exhibition floor serves as a true reflection of what’s happening in the global smart city space.

Visitors have the opportunity to:

   Explore real-world solutions for improving city services

   Experience live demonstrations of IoT, AI, 5G, and digital twin technologies

   Meet face-to-face with public officials and infrastructure providers

   Discover procurement and partnership opportunities across continents

   Attend themed pavilions highlighting innovations from different countries and regions

Each element of the Congress is curated to ensure that every participant—whether a mayor or a mobility startup founder—finds meaningful ways to contribute and benefit.

Conference Program: Where Ideas Shape the Cities of Tomorrow

Beyond the massive expo floor lies one of the event’s key strengths: its conference program. With more than 600 high-profile speakers, this portion of the Congress fosters thought-provoking dialogue, debate, and inspiration. The sessions are led by internationally respected voices from governments, urban planning agencies, tech firms, and academic institutions, offering cutting-edge insights into the urban issues of today and tomorrow.

Core conference themes often include:

   Smart governance and digital transformation

   Climate action and urban sustainability

   Cybersecurity and data ethics in smart cities

   Public health in the urban age

   Equity, accessibility, and inclusive design

The format features a mix of keynotes, panels, fireside chats, and case study presentations, offering attendees both macro-level visions and micro-level strategies they can implement back in their own cities or companies.

Why You Should Attend Smart City Expo World Congress

If you are involved in urban development, public services, or technology, Smart City Expo isn’t just another event—it’s a global movement. The Congress offers tangible benefits for various types of professionals and organizations.

Five compelling reasons to attend:

   Network with Global Leaders: Engage with peers, experts, and policymakers from over 140 countries.

   Showcase Your Innovation: Gain international exposure by exhibiting in front of decision-makers and investors.

   Learn from the Best: Absorb strategies from global case studies, pilot projects, and research findings.

   Drive Policy Change: Collaborate on policies and regulations that foster sustainable urban development.

   Explore New Markets: Meet public procurement officers and city representatives actively looking for new solutions.

Whether you represent a startup, a multinational corporation, or a municipal government, Smart City Expo provides an environment to connect ideas with action—and ideas with capital.

Building Human-Centered Cities through Technology

While technology is often at the center of discussions on urban innovation, the Congress keeps human needs as its guiding principle. Tools like AI, IoT, machine learning, and blockchain are explored not for their novelty but for their impact on improving quality of life.

Attendees will see how these technologies are already being used to:

   Predict and prevent air pollution in dense urban areas

   Optimize emergency response times with AI-powered systems

   Enable real-time transit updates that make commuting easier

   Reduce waste through smart bin systems and circular material flows

   Enhance accessibility for the elderly and disabled with inclusive tech

By demonstrating tech’s role in fostering equity, efficiency, and resilience, Smart City Expo highlights a clear path toward urban transformation that leaves no one behind.

Final Thoughts: Be Part of the Urban Future

The Smart City Expo World Congress is more than a conference—it’s a global crossroads of vision, technology, and commitment. As cities around the world face common yet complex challenges, the Congress offers a much-needed space to reflect, collaborate, and act with purpose.

EQUIPLAST

Equiplast is a prestigious international trade fair that specializes in plastics technology and processing, held triennially at the Fira de Barcelona. Organized by one of Europe’s largest and most modern trade fair organizations, the event benefits from exceptional transport links and infrastructure, making it accessible to a global audience. The fair showcases the multifaceted nature of plastics manufacturing, which encompasses a variety of techniques and processes that transform raw plastic materials into a diverse array of products.

At the heart of plastics manufacturing is the process of polymerization, where monomers combine to form long chains known as polymers. This process can take different forms, such as addition and condensation polymerization, leading to the production of various types of plastics. Equiplast highlights the wide-ranging methods of plastics processing, including extrusion, injection molding, blow molding, and thermoforming, which enable manufacturers to create everything from simple containers to intricate components for the automotive and electronics industries. The rise of 3D printing, or additive manufacturing, has further revolutionized this field, offering innovative advantages over traditional methods.

The fair focuses on key themes such as plastic production, processing, design, and recycling, presenting new technologies and fostering industry advancements. With a robust lineup of networking events and expert lectures, Equiplast serves as a vital hub for professionals to exchange ideas and insights. By attracting a diverse group of exhibitors and visitors, the fair not only strengthens the industry but also provides a comprehensive overview of current trends and future directions in plastics technology. Ultimately, Equiplast plays a crucial role in promoting innovation and collaboration within the plastics sector, reinforcing its significance on the global stage.

EXPOQUIMIA

Expoquimia is a premier international trade fair dedicated to general chemical applications, traditionally held every three years at the Fira de Barcelona in Spain. Established in 1965 by Fira de Barcelona, one of Europe’s most prominent trade fair organizers, this event has become a cornerstone for the chemical industry, showcasing a vast array of products, services, and innovations.

The exhibition covers a wide range of subject areas, including industrial chemistry, fine chemicals, pharmaceutical chemicals, new materials, composites, pumps and valves, production process technologies, and environmental chemistry, as well as biotechnology. Each edition of Expoquimia emphasizes not only scientific advancements but also the industrial applications of these innovations. This focus on practical implementation makes the event particularly relevant for professionals looking to integrate the latest technologies into their operations.

Held at the strategically located Fira de Barcelona, the fair offers state-of-the-art facilities and services, creating an ideal environment for exhibitors and attendees alike. The venue facilitates significant networking opportunities, allowing industry professionals to connect, exchange ideas, and explore potential collaborations. This interaction is crucial for driving the continued growth and development of the global chemical industry.

Expoquimia serves as a vital platform for unveiling the latest scientific and technological innovations in the sector. With presentations from leading companies and thought leaders, attendees gain insights into emerging trends and developments, helping them stay competitive in a rapidly evolving market.

In summary, Expoquimia is an indispensable event for anyone involved in the chemical industry. It not only showcases cutting-edge advancements but also fosters a collaborative atmosphere where professionals can engage in meaningful discussions and form valuable connections. For those keen on keeping up with the latest trends and developments, Expoquimia is an event not to be missed.

CONSTRUMAT

At Construmat, there is a strong belief that construction and building renovation are crucial in addressing the social, economic, and environmental challenges we face today. This conviction drives the event’s focus on sustainability, showcasing solutions that not only meet industry demands but also enhance the quality of life for individuals and communities. 

Scheduled for May, Construmat is poised to present a diverse array of innovations that prioritize accessibility, energy efficiency, and the use of local materials. These elements are not merely trends; they represent a commitment to creating built environments that are both functional and responsible. The event serves as a unique platform, connecting thousands of professionals from across the construction ecosystem, including architects, engineers, contractors, and developers. This vibrant gathering allows participants to engage with the latest products and solutions that are shaping the future of the industry.

In Barcelona, the spirit of collaboration and innovation is palpable. Attendees will discover a wealth of novelties that not only address current market needs but also pave the way for sustainable practices that can be integrated into everyday construction projects. The focus on local materials emphasizes a commitment to community and environmental stewardship, ensuring that developments are not only economically viable but also ecologically sound.

Construmat stands as a beacon for those who are passionate about transforming the construction landscape. The event embodies a collective vision for a future where buildings are designed with an eye toward sustainability, inclusivity, and resilience. By bringing together industry leaders and innovators, Construmat not only highlights the challenges but also the opportunities for creating a better built environment for all. 

As the event approaches, it promises to inspire professionals to embrace new ideas and practices that will drive the construction industry forward. By fostering dialogue and collaboration, Construmat aims to ensure that sustainability remains at the forefront of the conversation, making it an essential event for anyone invested in the future of construction and building renovation.

ShowStoppers Mobile World Congress

Save the date and prepare for ShowStoppers, the world’s premier technology showcase that serves as the ultimate platform for media to connect with major brands, startups, and the most influential leaders in the tech industry. This high-profile event is an exclusive opportunity for global journalists to gain first-hand access to cutting-edge innovations and trends that are shaping the future of technology. Whether it's Smart Cities, the Future of Mobility, Artificial Intelligence, Robotics, or Virtual Reality, ShowStoppers brings together a compelling mix of next-generation technologies, hands-on products, engaging experiences, and top-tier entertainment, creating a truly immersive and exciting atmosphere.

At ShowStoppers, attendees will witness groundbreaking advancements in a wide range of fields, each representing a key component of our digital future. From smart, interconnected urban environments to AI-driven solutions that are transforming industries, the event serves as a living laboratory where the latest ideas are not only presented but brought to life. It’s a unique opportunity to see, touch, and experience the innovations that are redefining the way we live, work, and interact with the world around us.

The event is designed not just for showcasing products, but also for fostering valuable connections and collaborations. With a variety of networking opportunities throughout the event, participants can engage with the brightest minds and trailblazers in the industry, whether it’s through one-on-one meetings, panel discussions, or casual interactions. As you network with journalists from the world’s leading publications, you’ll find countless opportunities to expand your professional reach, explore new business ventures, and accelerate your business forward.

What sets ShowStoppers apart is its commitment to both innovation and entertainment, ensuring that attendees are not only informed but also entertained. The excitement is palpable as the tech world converges to explore what's next, with startups and established tech companies alike showcasing their latest breakthroughs and offering a glimpse of what the future holds. This dynamic combination of forward-thinking technologies, interactive experiences, and high-profile networking opportunities makes ShowStoppers a must-attend event for anyone looking to be at the forefront of the next wave of technological disruption.

Get ready to influence the future at ShowStoppers, where ideas are exchanged, business deals are made, and the digital world takes center stage. We can't wait to see the incredible innovations and exciting concepts that startups and tech companies will unveil. Whether you're a journalist, entrepreneur, or industry leader, ShowStoppers is your chance to experience the cutting-edge technologies that will shape tomorrow.

International Conference on Surface Modification Technologies

The International Conference on Surface Modification Technologies, hosted in the vibrant city of Barcelona, is set to be an essential gathering for professionals in the field of surface engineering. Organized by the renowned Thermal Spray Center, this prestigious event serves as a platform for presenting the latest breakthroughs in surface science, coating technologies, and materials for surface modification. It is poised to bring together researchers, industry leaders, and technology experts from around the world to share insights, discuss emerging trends, and explore innovative solutions that are shaping the future of surface engineering.

Focusing on cutting-edge materials and advanced surface modification techniques, the conference will cover a broad range of topics, from novel methods of preparation and coating application to the characterization and testing of coatings. Attendees will be immersed in the latest research and technological advancements that are revolutionizing industries such as aerospace, automotive, manufacturing, and medical devices. The event will explore not only the scientific and technical aspects of surface modification but also the practical applications of these technologies in real-world settings.

One of the standout features of the conference is its emphasis on the future of surface modification and coatings. With continuous advancements in materials science and nanotechnology, the conference will delve into emerging technologies that are pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in surface treatment. Discussions will explore the latest innovations in surface coatings, such as self-healing materials, anti-corrosion technologies, and high-performance coatings designed to meet the challenges of extreme environments. This forward-looking focus ensures that participants gain a comprehensive understanding of the evolving landscape of surface engineering and the opportunities it presents for various industries.

The conference will not only provide valuable technical content but also foster dynamic discussions and collaborations between academia and industry. Researchers and engineers will have the chance to engage in conversations that bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application. Through presentations, workshops, and panel discussions, attendees can expect to gain new perspectives on how to apply surface modification techniques to enhance product performance, sustainability, and efficiency.

In addition to the wealth of knowledge, the International Conference on Surface Modification Technologies offers unparalleled networking opportunities. Attendees will have the chance to connect with thought leaders, industry professionals, and fellow researchers from around the world. This exchange of ideas and expertise is crucial for fostering collaborations that can lead to transformative advancements in surface engineering. Whether it’s establishing new partnerships, discussing joint ventures, or exploring new research opportunities, the conference will serve as a melting pot of innovation, where new ventures and groundbreaking projects can be born.

For anyone involved in the surface modification and coating industries, this conference is a must-attend event. It promises to be an enriching experience that not only offers cutting-edge knowledge but also facilitates connections that can drive the future of surface technology forward. With its focus on innovation, collaboration, and the exploration of new technologies, the International Conference on Surface Modification Technologies is poised to be a landmark event in the world of surface engineering.

Integrated Systems Europe

Integrated Systems Europe (ISE) stands as the world’s premier annual event for the audiovisual (AV) and systems integration industry, setting the stage for groundbreaking innovation, networking, and career development. Organized by Integrated Systems Events, ISE has become a global touchstone for professionals in the AV and integration sectors, drawing industry leaders, pioneers, and visionaries from around the world. 

Every February, the event unfolds over four days, offering attendees a truly immersive experience where they can explore state-of-the-art technologies, engage in networking opportunities, and gain insights into the latest trends driving the AV and systems integration sectors forward. For many in the industry, ISE is a vital source of inspiration and motivation, providing not only access to cutting-edge products but also a platform to reconnect with colleagues and peers, exchange ideas, and discover new ways to advance their careers.

Since its inception in 2004, ISE has seen exponential growth. What began as a modest gathering has evolved into an unmissable event, with the 2024 edition showcasing over 1,400 exhibitors and hosting more than 172,000 visits. The event features countless new product launches, providing an unparalleled opportunity for professionals to explore the newest innovations in areas like digital signage, smart buildings, audio systems, and immersive technologies. For businesses, it's a crucial moment to connect with global partners, discover emerging trends, and stay at the forefront of a fast-evolving industry.

Whether you’re a product designer, integrator, engineer, or business leader, ISE offers an exceptional environment to expand your knowledge, grow your network, and forge valuable partnerships. Each year, ISE continues to set the bar for what’s possible in the AV and systems integration world—making it a must-attend event for anyone looking to push the boundaries of technology and innovation.

GRAPHISPAG

Graphispag stands as the premier event for the graphic and visual communication sector on the Iberian Peninsula. Each edition of this influential exhibition draws together around 200 top-tier exhibitors and attracts more than 22,000 trade visitors. The event is strategically organized into four key focal areas: Visual Communication, Design, Packaging, and Commercial Printing. This segmentation allows participants to explore the latest trends and experience cutting-edge technologies across various facets of the industry.

Graphispag 2022 places a particular emphasis on graphic services companies, highlighting their innovative products that offer significant value and competitive advantages in the realm of digital communication. Attendees have the opportunity to engage with pioneering solutions and gain insights into how these advancements are shaping the future of graphic and visual communication.

By bringing together leading industry players and offering a comprehensive overview of current and emerging technologies, Graphispag provides a crucial platform for networking, learning, and exploring new business opportunities. This event continues to be a significant benchmark for professionals looking to stay at the forefront of the industry.