Event
Action
October 28, 2026

VWP 1st Regional Workshop to Strengthen the Central, Eastern European and Balkan Virtual Worlds Ecosystem

The Virtual Worlds Partnership (VWP), in collaboration with HUN-REN SZTAKI – Institute for Computer Science and Control, is pleased to announce the 1st Regional Workshop, taking place on 28–29 October 2026 in Budapest, Hungary.

Introduction

Virtual Worlds, solving real world problemsVirtual Worlds (VW) represent a transformative convergence of physical and digital realities, creatingimmersive environments where users can interact, work, learn and play in unprecedented ways. ThisStrategic Research and Innovation Agenda identifies the required foundational concepts andtechnological advancements driving VW, highlighting their potential to revolutionise various sectors,including industry, entertainment, education, and commerce. By examining the interplay betweenAugmented Reality (AR), Virtual Reality (VR), or Mixed Reality (MR) and other emerging technologies likeDigital Twins (DT) and Artificial Intelligence (AI), we aim to provide a comprehensive overview of VWs'prospects and associated research and innovation gaps. A deeper exploration of VWs' impact on societyand the economy gives context to the application and technology perspectives.VW are persistent, immersive environments, based on technologies including 3D and extended reality(XR), which make it possible to blend physical and digital worlds in real-time, for a variety of purposessuch as designing, making simulations, collaborating, learning, socialising, carrying out transactions orproviding entertainment1. They encompass a wide range of digital experiences, from fully i

Hosted at HUN-REN SZTAKI (Kende u. 13–17, 1111 Budapest), the workshop represents an important milestone in strengthening collaboration across the Central, Eastern European and Balkan virtual worlds ecosystem. It will bring together researchers, innovators, industry representatives, public authorities and policymakers to foster dialogue, exchange knowledge and identify new opportunities for cooperation.

Strengthening Regional Collaboration

As part of the activities of the Virtual Worlds Partnership, this regional workshop aims to activate and engage stakeholders from Central, Eastern Europe and the Balkans, creating new connections between organisations working across the virtual worlds value chain.

Participants will have the opportunity to discuss emerging technologies, research priorities, industrial challenges and opportunities for collaboration, while contributing to a stronger and more connected European ecosystem.

The workshop also supports the broader objectives of the Virtual Worlds Partnership by encouraging collaboration between academia, industry and public institutions, helping to accelerate innovation and reinforce Europe’s leadership in open, interoperable and trustworthy Virtual Worlds and Web 4.0 ecosystems.

Event Information

  • Event: 1st Regional Workshop
  • Dates: 28–29 October 2026
  • Venue: HUN-REN SZTAKI – Institute for Computer Science and Control
  • Location: Kende u. 13–17, 1111 Budapest, Hungary

A detailed agenda and registration information will be published in the coming weeks.

Stay tuned for further updates!

About the Virtual Worlds Partnership

The Virtual Worlds Partnership is shaping Europe’s future in open, interoperable and trustworthy Virtual Worlds and Web 4.0 ecosystems.

Stay tuned for updates on our strategic roadmaps, SRIAs and collaborative initiatives. Learn more about the Virtual Worlds Partnership.

NOVA is a Horizon Europe CSA funded by the EU under Grant Agreement No. 101296278 to support the Virtual Worlds Partnership.

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