Why Austin is overtaking Silicon Valley for international startups — and how to prepare for the USA ecosystem before you even arrive

On April 1st, 2026, at Progetto Manifattura in Rovereto, Kevin Koym will join Federico Stefani and Francesca Gottardi for a conversation about a shift many global founders are starting to notice: Austin is quickly becoming a powerful gateway for international startups entering the U.S. market. Kevin will share lessons from decades of working alongside entrepreneurs across more than 40 countries through Tech Ranch—focusing on what founders need to understand before they arrive in the United States: the mindset, relationships, and ecosystem connections that make cross-border growth actually work. This discussion brings together entrepreneurs, ecosystem leaders, and policymakers who believe that when the right networks connect, innovation moves faster and global opportunities become real pathways, not just ambitions. The session will be followed by networking and an aperitivo to continue the conversation.