FAQ

What is PyCon?

PyCon is the most important Italian conference about the Python programming language. In fact, The name "PyCon" comes from merging the words "Python" and "Conference". PyCon Italia is the Italian edition of the international USA conference us.pycon.org. A list of all PyCon conferences is also available pycon.org.

Why a PyCon in Italy?

Because there was nothing like that before, and because both Italian companies and universities are fairly slow at spreading and adopting this language, despite its attained maturity with its 18 years lifespan (it has come of age :-) ) and its widespread adoption in the world.

Who is organizing the conference?

PyCon Italia is organized by Python Italia APS, a no-profit social promotion company, with contributions from Python Software Foundation and the patronage of the Florence municipality.

What are the activities Python Italia is involved in?

At present, the only activity of Python Italia is the yearly organization of PyCon. In the next future, the association might get busy with other Python promotion activities.

When and where is the conference held?

PyCon Italia has been held yearly, during the May-June timespan, in Florence since 2007. PyCon Tre (2009 edition) will be held again in Florence on May 8, 9 and 10. To stay up-to-date about PyCon, follow the blog or subscribe to the newsletter.

Why in Florence?

Because Florence is easily reached from all places in Italy by car, train or plane. Moreover, being Florence a turistic city, attendees have the chance to match the conference with a weekend in one of the most important art cities of the world. Lastly, even if organizers are from a number of Italian cities, many of them are located around Florence and can better take care of all the logistics.

Where does the ticket price come from?

Conference costs are covered for almost 2/3 by sponsors; we calculated that if PyCon Due (held in 2008) was funded by tickets only, tickets would have been €155 each. This figure could more than double if organizers did not work on a voluntary base. On the contrary, during PyCon Due we managed to lower the ticket price to a mere €35 for students (which by the way is less than the cost of the included meals!), thanks to sponsors and volunteering.

Why do sponsors fund the conference?

Briefly said, because it is a good investment. Sponsors are able to promote their brand thanks to the PyCon website geting lots of visits during the year, and boasting a 7/10 Google Rank. Moreover, sponsors looking for programmers get the chance, during the recruiting sessions, to meet skilled professionals looking for employment. Lastly, a company wishing to promote a Python related service or product may deliver a sponsored talk about their technology.

My company is interested in sponsoring PyCon Tre. What should I do?

See the sponsor page or write to sponsor@pycon.it .