15 Best Innovation Conferences to Consider in 2026
Innovation equals progress. Whether you're a budding entrepreneur, a seasoned professional, or simply curious about the future, staying at the forefront of groundbreaking ideas is crucial. Conferences offer a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the latest advancements, network with like-minded individuals, and ignite your creative spark.
This article will guide you through 15 of the top innovation conferences in 2026, helping you find the perfect platform to fuel your inspiration and propel you toward the future.
Best Innovation Conferences Shortlist
Here's a shortlist of the best innovation conferences I think are worth attending in 2026:
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- AI & Big Data Expo - Multiple dates and locations
- CU Growth & Innovation Summit - Oak Brook, IL (February 9-11, 2026)
- 2026 Chicago Global Summit -Chicago, IL (April 14-16, 2026)
- Data Center World - Washington, D.C., USA (April 20-23, 2026)
- eMerge Americas 2026 - Miami Beach, FL (April 22-24, 2026)
- Google Cloud Next 2026 - Las Vegas, NV (April 22-24, 2026)
- ODSC AI - Multiple dates and locations
- Dublin Tech Summit - Dublin, Ireland (May 27-28, 2026)
- London Tech Week - London, UK (June 8-12, 2026)
- Viva Technology - Paris, France (June 17-20, 2026)
- TECHSPO London 2026 - London, UK (September 3-4, 2026)
- Future Festival World Summit - Toronto, Canada (September 28-October 1, 2026)
- Innovation Roundtable® Summit - Copenhagen, Denmark (November 3-5, 2026)
- Web Summit - Lisbon, Portugal (November 9-12, 2026)
- AWS re:Invent - Las Vegas, NV (November 30-December 4, 2026)
15 Best Innovation Conferences of 2026
Below are my summaries of the best innovation conferences that made it onto my shortlist. My reviews offer a look at each event’s dates, location, pricing, and unique offering.
1. AI & Big Data Expo - Multiple locations and dates
- Dates: Multiple dates (see table below)
- Location: Multiple locations (see table below)
- Pricing: Varied (see table below)
- Social Media: Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram
The AI & Big Data Expo is a prominent event series that focuses on the latest advancements in artificial intelligence and big data. It spans multiple locations, including California, Amsterdam, and London, and covers a wide array of topics from strategy and implementation to ethical AI.
Past events have featured a series of headliners, including Alisson Sol, VP of Software Engineering at Capital One; Irina Mirkina, Chief AI Scientist at Fugro; and Moutia Khatiri, CTO of Tech Accelerators at L'Oreal.
AI & Big Data Expo: Locations & Dates
| Location | Dates | Pricing |
|---|---|---|
| London, UK | February 4-5, 2026 | From £899 |
| San Jose, CA | May 18-19, 2026 | From $699 |
| Amsterdam, Netherlands | October 20-21, 2026 | TBA |
Why attend? Attending the AI & Big Data Expo gives you a chance to dive deep into the evolving world of AI and big data. It's perfect for you and your team if you're looking to expand your knowledge with insights from industry leaders.
You can expect hands-on workshops, engaging talks, and the opportunity to network with like-minded professionals. The expo's focus on practical applications and ethical considerations makes it a unique experience that stands out from other conferences.
2. CU Growth & Innovation Summit - Oak Brook, IL (February 9-11, 2026)
- Dates: February 9-11, 2026
- Location: DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel
- Pricing: From $495
- Social Media: LinkedIn
CU Growth & Innovation Summit is an innovation event for credit union leaders, marketers, fintech strategists, and business development teams. It focuses on future-forward strategies for growth and collaboration. The event features expert panels and 11+ interactive sessions, with 25+ top executives from leading credit unions.
Why attend? Attending the summit offers you a chance to explore partnerships, marketing strategies, and tech innovations shaping the future of credit unions. The agenda blends high-energy talks with peer exchange, experiential content, and real-world case studies.
Expect innovation labs, collaborative panels, and tactical sessions on branding, leadership, and consumer insights. It’s a targeted space for senior teams aiming to fuel sustainable credit union growth.
3. 2026 Chicago Global Summit - Chicago, IL (April 14-16, 2026)
- Dates: April 14-16, 2026
- Location: Convene – 311 W Monroe
- Pricing: From $3,000 (member discounts available)
- Social Media: LinkedIn, Facebook
The Chicago Global Summit is a premier event for leaders in the built environment sector. It attracts top executives, innovators, and thought leaders. The event provides a platform for discussing industry trends such as AI, sustainability, and modular construction.
Why attend? Attending this global innovation event offers you a chance to engage with senior leaders and innovators in the built environment. The event focuses on cutting-edge topics like AI in construction and sustainability, offering unique networking opportunities and insightful sessions.
You'll also have the opportunity to participate in focused discussions and hands-on visits, making it a valuable experience for you and your team.
4. Data Center World - Washington, D.C., USA (April 20-23, 2026)
- Dates: April 20-23, 2026
- Location: Walter E. Washington Convention Center
- Pricing: Starts at $2,399
- Social Media: Facebook
Data Center World is a leading innovation conference for professionals involved in IT infrastructure, colocation, edge computing, and data center management. This annual event brings together enterprise end-users, solution providers, and thought leaders.
"Data Center World is a great way to keep up with the latest trends in data center operations, construction, and technology. Attending this conference will give you a clear picture of where the industry is heading and the opportunity to reconnect and network with friends and colleagues around the country!"
- Craig Fritts, Director of Operations at U.S. Engineering Construction
Why attend? DCW will allow you to gain insights into the latest business models shaping digital infrastructure. The event blends product development sessions with strategy talks, making it ideal for IT leaders and operations teams. Additionally, you’ll connect with vendors unveiling new product launches, and engage with industry peers through panels, hands-on workshops, and exhibitions.
5. eMerge Americas 2026 - Miami Beach, FL (April 22-24, 2026)
- Dates: April 22-24, 2026
- Location: Miami Beach Convention Center
- Pricing: Starts at $399
- Social Media: LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram
eMerge Americas is a leading global tech conference that connects innovators, changemakers, and investors from over 60+ countries. It focuses on sectors like AI, health, finance, and national security. The event features more than 250+ speakers, including notable industry leaders and visionaries.
Why attend? Attending eMerge Americas 2026 offers your team exposure to cutting-edge innovations, emerging technologies, and global networking opportunities. The event covers key areas such as AI and finance, providing a platform for immersive experiences and learning. You'll engage with leaders and explore new technologies shaping the future of the ecosystem, making it a must-attend for forward-thinking professionals.
6. Google Cloud Next 2026 - Las Vegas, NV (April 22-24, 2026)
- Dates: April 22-24, 2026
- Location: Mandalay Bay Convention Center
- Pricing: From $999 (early-bird pricing)
- Social Media: LinkedIn, Facebook
Google Cloud Next is a premier conference for cloud professionals, providing insights into the latest innovations and strategies in cloud computing. It attracts thousands of tech enthusiasts and industry leaders.
Notable speakers include Thomas Kurian, CEO of Google Cloud, and other key executives. The event offers a platform for learning and networking, with sessions that cover a wide range of cloud technologies.
Why attend? This three-day event is your gateway to exploring the future of cloud technology. With in-depth sessions, showcase demos, hands-on workshops, and keynotes from top executives, it’s an ideal event for anyone looking to advance their cloud knowledge.
You'll also have the chance to network with industry peers and discover Google Cloud's latest offerings, making it a must-attend for tech professionals.
7. ODSC AI - Multiple locations and dates
- Dates: Multiple dates (see table below)
- Location: Multiple locations (see table below)
- Pricing: Varied (see table below)
- Social Media: LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram
ODSC AI is a series of innovation conferences focused on artificial intelligence, machine learning, generative AI, data science, and practical AI engineering. It’s designed for AI builders, data scientists, engineers, business leaders, and anyone looking to upskill or transition into AI roles. The series has grown into one of the most respected AI training and networking events globally.
" It was an intensive educational experience that provided deep dives into some of the cutting-edge areas of data science and many relevant emerging companies."
- Neel Agarwal, MS Data | Student University Of Rochester, New York
ODSC AI: Locations, Dates, & Pricing
| Location | Date | Pricing |
|---|---|---|
| Boston, MA | April 28-30, 2026 | Starts at $6499-$1,779 |
| Burlingame, CA | October 27-29, 2026 | Register to see current pricing |
Why attend? You’ll get hands-on learning and actionable takeaways from real-world AI applications, not just high-level talks. The agenda packs workshops, tutorials, expert discussions, and expos that help you build practical skills you can apply immediately at work. There’s also plenty of networking — you’ll meet peers, instructors, and industry leaders across technical and strategic tracks.
If your goal is to stay current with AI innovation while connecting with a global community, ODSC AI offers a structured yet flexible way to do so across multiple formats and locations.
8. Dublin Tech Summit - Dublin, Ireland (May 27-28, 2026)
- Dates: May 27-28, 2026
- Location: RDS Dublin
- Pricing: From €295
- Social Media: LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram
DTS is a major event in the technology sector, attracting global leaders and innovators. It has become a key platform for discussing the future of technology and business.
The summit features speakers such as David Reger, CEO and Founder of Neura Robotics, and other tech visionaries, offering insights into emerging trends.
Why attend? Attending the DTS gives you and your team access to cutting-edge discussions and networking opportunities. The event focuses on technology and innovation, featuring international speakers and interactive sessions. It's ideal for anyone looking to connect with industry leaders and explore the latest tech advancements.
9. London Tech Week - London, UK (June 8-12, 2026)
- Dates: June 8-12, 2026
- Location: Olympia London
- Pricing: From £395 (free passes available)
- Social Media: LinkedIn, Facebook
London Tech Week is a major innovation conference and five‑day tech festival bringing together the global tech ecosystem of founders, investors, enterprise leaders, and policy makers to explore cutting‑edge technology trends and business applications.
The event regularly features hundreds of sessions across AI, deeptech, quantum, cybersecurity, and digital transformation. The 2026 edition will spotlight world‑class speakers, startups, and enterprise innovators shaping the future of tech.
Why attend? If you’re part of a startup, enterprise, or investor team, London Tech Week gives you a front‑row seat to the latest developments in tech and innovation and access to diverse networking opportunities. Beyond talks and panels, you’ll find hackathons, masterclasses, and curated matchmaking sessions designed to help you build partnerships and find customers.
This in-person event also features an expo floor with 250+ exhibitors where you can discover new products, meet founders, and explore solutions across multiple tech domains.
10. Viva Technology - Paris, France (June 17-20, 2026)
- Dates: June 17-20, 2026
- Location: Paris Expo Porte de Versailles
- Pricing: Starts at €350
- Social Media: LinkedIn
Viva Technology is Europe's largest startup and tech event, bringing together innovators, startups, and investors. It offers a platform to showcase new technologies, highlight global brands like LVMH, Sanofi, and Amazon, and foster collaboration.
Why attend? At Viva Tech, you and your team will experience a dynamic environment that fosters innovation and collaboration. The event is perfect for exploring new technologies and connecting with industry leaders.
With a focus on startups and tech advancements, it offers unique experiences like pitch sessions and workshops, ensuring valuable insights and networking opportunities.
11. TECHSPO London 2026 - London, UK (September 3-4, 2026)
- Dates: September 3-4, 2026
- Location: Sofitel London Heathrow Hotel
- Pricing: From £27.33
- Social Media: LinkedIn
TECHSPO London is a two-day technology expo showcasing the next generation of technology and innovation. It's designed for tech enthusiasts, developers, and marketers eager to explore the latest in technology. The event features speakers from leading tech companies and aims to connect innovators and decision-makers.
Why attend? Attending TECHSPO London 2026 offers your team the chance to engage with cutting-edge technologies. The expo highlights the latest in digital marketing, mobile, and SaaS technology, providing a platform for discovering new tools and solutions.
With interactive exhibits and insightful sessions, it's an ideal event for staying updated on tech trends.
12. Future Festival World Summit - Toronto, Canada (September 28-October 1, 2026)
- Dates: September 28-October 1, 2026
- Location: TIFF Lightbox
- Pricing: From $1,799
- Social Media: LinkedIn, Instagram
Future Festival World Summit is a premier event designed for innovators and business leaders eager to explore future trends. It has provided a platform for learning and inspiration, featuring speakers like Jeremy Gutsche, NYT Bestselling Author & CEO of Trend Hunter, and other trendsetting experts. It offers a unique experience with trend safaris and innovation workshops.
Why attend? The summit allows you and your team to dive into future trends and innovation strategies. The event is packed with hands-on workshops and trend safaris, providing an engaging and interactive learning environment. It's ideal for those looking to stay ahead of the curve and gain insights into the future of their industry.
13. Innovation Roundtable® Summit - Copenhagen, Denmark (November 3-5, 2026)
- Dates: November 4-6, 2026
- Location: Tivoli Hotel and Congress Center
- Pricing: Starts at €1,916.25 (member) - €2,555.00 (non-member)
- Social Media: LinkedIn, Facebook
The Innovation Roundtable® Summit is a leading event for corporate innovators, providing a platform for sharing insights and strategies. It brings together senior executives and innovation leaders from global companies.
The summit features interactive sessions and keynote speakers like renowned business leaders and academics.
Why attend? This conference focuses on real-world challenges facing corporate innovation teams. You’ll hear from industry practitioners and join hands-on labs and roundtables designed to generate discussion among peers and stakeholders.
Unlike broader innovation conferences, this one’s tailored for those working on innovation strategy, R&D, and transformation inside large companies. Expect an atmosphere of collaboration and practical idea-sharing that encourages your team to return with strategies you can actually apply.
14. Web Summit - Lisbon, Portugal (November 9-12, 2026)
- Dates: November 9-12, 2026
- Location: MEO Arena
- Pricing: Register to see current pricing
- Social Media: LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram
Web Summit is a leading technology conference that attracts industry giants, startups, and innovators from around the world. It provides a platform for networking and exploring the latest tech trends.
“To hear from today’s tech giants’ CTOs and CIOs – not to forget the networking and hanging out with so many different people at the Siemens stand – well, it was a pretty amazing day!”
- Miguel Figueiredo, Senior Operations Excellence Consultant at Siemens
Why attend? Attending Web Summit gives you the chance to engage with tech leaders and explore groundbreaking innovations. It's perfect for your team to gain insights into emerging tech trends and network with global influencers.
With diverse panels and interactive sessions, Web Summit offers an unparalleled experience in the tech world.
15. AWS re:Invent - Las Vegas, NV (November 30-December 4, 2026)
- Dates: November 30-December 4, 2026
- Location: The Venetian Convention and Expo Center
- Pricing: Register to see current pricing
- Social Media: LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram
AWS re:Invent is a premier cloud computing conference organized by Amazon Web Services, drawing tech enthusiasts and professionals worldwide. It is known for its comprehensive cloud computing workshops and networking opportunities.
Why attend? The event offers your team in-depth insights into cloud innovation and strategies. With hands-on labs, keynotes, and breakout sessions, it's perfect for exploring AWS services and solutions. It's an excellent opportunity to network with cloud experts and gain practical skills, making it a must-attend for those in the tech industry.
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