17 Can't Miss AI Events & Conferences of 2026

In 2026, AI continues to redefine industries, accelerate innovation and reshape how businesses operate. Staying ahead means engaging with the leading minds and emerging trends at this year's most impactful AI events. From the latest advancements in AI technology to critical discussions on ethics, law and risk, these conferences are where innovation meets strategy.

This guide highlights the must-attend AI events of 2026, covering key areas like AI disruption, market dynamics, platform developments and workforce upskilling. Whether you're driving enterprise AI adoption or exploring its transformative potential, these events offer invaluable insights, networking opportunities and practical takeaways for the year ahead.

1. DeveloperWeek 2026

• Dates: February 18–20, 2026
• Location: San Jose, Calif. 
• Price: Expo passes are free, conference passes vary by track and access level

DeveloperWeek 2026 is a developer and engineering conference focused on modern software development, platform architecture and emerging technologies. The event covers applied AI and machine learning, cloud infrastructure, DevOps, APIs, security and enterprise software development practices. It is geared toward software engineers, technical leads, engineering managers and technology decision-makers who are responsible for building, scaling and maintaining production systems. The program emphasizes practical implementation, architectural decision-making and tool evaluation rather than introductory concepts.

Agenda Highlights:

• Keynote Sessions: Technical and strategic perspectives on software development trends, AI engineering and platform evolution.
• AI & Machine Learning Tracks: Sessions focused on applied AI, model integration, MLOps and real-world engineering use cases.
• Cloud and DevOps Content: Coverage of cloud-native architecture, CI/CD, observability and infrastructure automation.
• Developer Tools and APIs: Deep dives into frameworks, APIs and developer platforms used in enterprise and startup environments.
• Expo Hall: Access to developer tool vendors, open source projects and product demonstrations.

2. ICAART 2026 (International Conference on Agents and Artificial Intelligence)

• Dates: March 5–7, 2026
• Location: Marabella, Spain
• Price: Full conference registration starts at approximately $700 USD, with discounted rates for early registration and students

ICAART 2026 is an international research-focused conference centered on autonomous agents, multi-agent systems and artificial intelligence. The event covers both foundational AI theory and applied research, including agent architectures, machine learning, knowledge representation, planning and intelligent decision-making systems. It is geared toward academic researchers, doctoral candidates and industry practitioners working on advanced AI systems, simulations and intelligent software. The conference emphasizes peer-reviewed contributions, methodological rigor and structured technical exchange rather than vendor-led or commercial content.

Agenda Highlights:

• Keynote Sessions: Research-driven presentations on current developments and challenges in artificial intelligence and agent-based systems.
• Technical Paper Sessions: Peer-reviewed research covering agents, multi-agent coordination, learning algorithms and intelligent reasoning.
• Workshops and Special Sessions: Focused exploration of emerging AI topics and specialized research domains.
• Doctoral Consortium: Structured feedback and discussion for PhD students presenting ongoing research.

3. Gartner Data & Analytics Summit 2026

• Dates: March 9–11, 2026
• Location: Orlando, Fla.
• Venue: Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center
• Price: Conference registration typically ranges from approximately $4,000 to $5,000 USD, depending on registration timing and attendee type

Gartner Data & Analytics Summit 2026 is a strategic AI conference for senior data, analytics and AI leaders responsible for enterprise data strategy and execution. The event focuses on how organizations can build, govern and scale data and analytics capabilities to support business outcomes. Content spans data architecture, analytics operating models, AI and generative AI integration, governance and leadership practices. The summit is geared toward chief data officers, chief analytics officers and senior practitioners who need structured frameworks and decision support rather than vendor-driven content.

Agenda Highlights:

• Keynote Sessions: Analyst-led perspectives on data and analytics trends, AI adoption and enterprise implications.
• AI and Analytics Strategy: Sessions on integrating AI and generative AI into analytics workflows while managing risk and governance.
• Data Architecture and Platforms: Guidance on modern data architectures, data products and ecosystem design.
• Governance and Operating Models: Practical frameworks for data governance, organizational design and accountability.
• Leadership and Value Measurement: Discussions on measuring business value, prioritizing investments and aligning data strategy with enterprise goals.

4. International Conference on Machine Learning, Artificial Intelligence and Data Science (ICMLAIDS) 2026

• Dates: March 20–21, 2026
• Location: Orlando, Fla.
• Venue: Holiday Inn Express & Suites Orlando at SeaWorld
• Price: Registration typically starts at approximately $800 USD, with higher rates for late registration and presenters and discounted options for students and virtual attendance

The International Conference on Machine Learning, Artificial Intelligence and Data Science (ICMLAIDS 2026) is a research and practitioner-oriented conference focused on advances in machine learning, artificial intelligence and data science. The AI event covers both theoretical and applied research, including algorithm development, model optimization, data engineering and AI system design. It is geared toward academic researchers, doctoral candidates, data scientists and industry practitioners working on advanced analytics and AI-driven systems rather than vendor-led product promotion.

Agenda Highlights:

• Keynote Sessions: Research-driven presentations on current directions in machine learning, artificial intelligence, and computational methods.
• Machine Learning & Deep Learning: Technical sessions covering algorithms, model training, and optimization techniques.
• Data Science and Analytics: Content on data processing, predictive modeling, and applied analytics workflows.
• Ethics and Governance: Discussions addressing responsible AI, explainability, fairness, and regulatory considerations.
• Applied AI Use Cases: Sessions exploring natural language processing, computer vision, robotics, and domain-specific applications.

5. HumanX 2026 — AI Conference

• Dates: April 6–9, 2026
• Location: San Francisco, Calif. 
• Venue: Moscone Center South
• Price: Full conference passes typically start around $2,650 USD for all-access with tiered options for investors, media, and startups

HumanX 2026 is a multi-day conference focused on artificial intelligence strategy, leadership and real-world implementation for enterprise and government organizations. Programming spans executive-level discussions, practical sessions on AI execution, curated networking opportunities and interaction with solution providers and investors. The event is geared toward senior leaders, technology decision-makers, founders, investors and AI practitioners seeking structured frameworks for scaling AI responsibly and aligning AI initiatives with business priorities. The agenda is designed to emphasize actionable insights and strategic connections rather than introductory AI concepts.

Agenda Highlights:

• Keynote Sessions: Executive presentations on AI strategy, governance and enterprise adoption.
• Executive Leadership Tracks: Discussions on AI leadership, organizational leverage, policy and ethics integration across functions.
• Industry Application Tracks: Focused content on AI use cases across customer engagement, operations, finance and HR.
• Technical and Innovation Tracks: Sessions on AI infrastructure, model experimentation, deployment paradigms and scalable architectures.
• Curated Networking: Structured matchmaking and one-to-one business development opportunities between leaders, investors and solution providers.

6. EMLA 5th International AI Conference 2026

• Dates: April 10–13, 2026
• Location: New York, NY
• Price: Registration typically starts around $900 USD for full conference access with discounted rates for students and online participation

The EMLA AI Conference 2026 is a multi-day hybrid research and professional conference covering artificial intelligence, machine learning, data science, robotics and biotechnology applications. The event includes plenary talks, technical sessions and interdisciplinary presentations that explore both theoretical advances and practical implementations. It is geared toward academic researchers, data science practitioners, technical leaders, AI engineers and professionals working at the intersection of AI, data technology and life sciences.

Agenda Highlights:

• Opening Keynotes: Featured presentations on recent developments and future directions in AI, data science and biotech.
• Machine Learning Technical Sessions: In-depth discussions on learning algorithms, model optimization and AI system design.
• Data Science and Analytics Tracks: Content on big data engineering, analytics pipelines and infrastructure challenges.
• Applied AI and Robotics Sessions: Exploration of robotics integration, automation systems and cognitive computing use cases.
• Poster and Oral Presentations: Interactive displays of ongoing research, interdisciplinary projects and early-stage innovations.

7. Generative AI Summit 2026

• Dates: April 13–15, 2026
• Location: London, UK
• Price: Passes are approximately $1,200–$3,900 USD depending on pass type and registration tier

Generative AI Summit 2026 is an enterprise-focused conference on deploying and governing generative AI in production environments. The program covers operating models for AI adoption, agentic and workflow orchestration approaches, data and platform foundations and responsible AI practices. It is geared toward senior leaders and experienced practitioners responsible for AI strategy, data and analytics execution, platform engineering, governance, risk management and transformation delivery across business functions.

Agenda Highlights:

• Workshop Day: Pre-conference sessions focused on implementation methods, tooling approaches and practical problem solving.
• Keynote Sessions: Executive and practitioner perspectives on enterprise generative AI adoption, operating models and delivery risks.
• Case Studies: Examples of moving from pilots to scaled deployments, including governance patterns, measurement and change management.
• Panels and Roundtables: Structured discussions on agentic systems, orchestration, data readiness, compliance and organizational accountability.
• Networking Reception: Dedicated time for peer discussions with enterprise leaders, technical owners and solution providers.

8. Google Cloud Next 2026

• Dates: April 22–24, 2026
• Location: Mandalay Bay Convention Center, Las Vegas
• Price: Early-bird: $999; General: $1,599; Standard: $2,299

Google Cloud Next 2026 is a premier three-day conference for technology leaders, developers, data scientists and infrastructure professionals focused on cloud innovation, enterprise AI, application development and security. The event covers how organizations can build modern cloud architectures, deploy AI and machine learning at scale, secure and govern cloud environments and collaborate across global ecosystems. It is geared toward CIOs, cloud architects, developers, infrastructure engineers, data scientists and IT leaders seeking hands-on learning, strategic insights and peer networking.

Agenda Highlights

• Executive Keynotes: Announcements of Google Cloud’s latest AI, data and infrastructure innovations.
• Breakout Sessions: Technical deep dives on cloud architecture, AI/ML, developer tools and data platforms.
• Hands-On Labs & Workshops: Practical, guided sessions for developers and engineers to build solutions.
• Security & Compliance Track: Strategies to secure modern cloud deployments, identity and data governance.
• Expo & Networking: Showcase of partner solutions, product demos, peer meet-ups and community events.

9. SAS Innovate 2026

• Dates: April 27–30, 2026
• Location: Grapevine, Texas
• Price: Conference passes start at $495 (early registration), then increase by registration window up to $1,295

SAS Innovate 2026 is SAS’s flagship conference focused on enterprise data, analytics and AI. The program covers applied AI and machine learning, governance and responsible AI considerations, analytics strategy and industry use cases, with sessions that span both executive decision-making and hands-on technical work. It is geared toward business leaders accountable for analytics outcomes, plus technical users such as data scientists, engineers and analysts who work with SAS platforms and enterprise analytics workflows.

Agenda Highlights:

• General Sessions and Keynotes: Executive and customer perspectives on data and AI strategy.
• Breakout Sessions: Role-based and industry-based sessions across analytics, AI and deployment practices.
• Workshops and Labs: Hands-on learning for practitioners implementing SAS and analytics solutions.
• Certification Opportunities: On-site pathways to validate SAS skills through certification activities.
• Pre-Conference Training and Special Programs: Training options plus structured programs such as hackathon-related content and solution-focused sessions.

10. AIM 2026

• Dates: April 27–29, 2026
• Location: San Francisco, Calif.
• Price: Registration typically ranges from approximately $600 to $900 USD depending on attendee category and registration timing

The International Conference on Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning 2026 is a research-focused AI event examining advances in artificial intelligence, machine learning and data-driven systems. The conference covers foundational AI methods, applied machine learning techniques, generative models, robotics and analytics, with an emphasis on peer-reviewed research and technical rigor. It is geared toward academic researchers, doctoral students, data scientists, AI engineers and industry practitioners working on algorithm development, system design and applied intelligence rather than commercial product marketing.

Agenda Highlights:

• Keynote Sessions: Research-led presentations on emerging directions in artificial intelligence and machine learning.
• Technical Paper Sessions: Peer-reviewed studies covering algorithms, model architectures and applied AI methods.
• Poster Presentations: Interactive discussions of ongoing research and experimental findings.
• Workshops and Tutorials: Focused sessions on specialized AI and machine learning topics.
• Networking Sessions: Structured opportunities for collaboration among researchers and technical professionals.

11. AI Agent Conference 2026

• Dates: May 4–5, 2026
• Location: New York, NY
• Price: Full conference passes are $1,399 USD for a standard full-event pass with additional premium upgrades available

AI Agent Conference 2026 is a professional AI event focused on autonomous and agentic artificial intelligence systems in enterprise and technology environments. The program emphasises both strategic and technical aspects of building, deploying and managing intelligent agent architectures, including operational patterns, governance considerations, infrastructure and business impact. It is geared toward senior technology leaders, AI strategists, engineering executives, product leaders and experienced practitioners responsible for integrating and scaling autonomous AI systems rather than introductory AI concepts.

Agenda Highlights:

• Executive Keynotes: Leadership perspectives on enterprise autonomous AI and strategic implications.
• Case Study Sessions: Practical examples of agent deployments in workflows, customer engagement and operations.
• Technical Tracks: Deep dive sessions on agent architectures, orchestration frameworks and infrastructure considerations.
• Panel Discussions: Expert dialogue on governance, organizational readiness, risk management and compliance.
• Networking Events: Structured opportunities to connect with peers, founders, investors and solution providers.

12. AI & Big Data Expo North America 2026

• Dates: May 18–19, 2026
• Location: San Jose, Calif. 
• Price: Expo and conference passes available with tiered pricing; free expo access and paid options for full conference access

AI Expo North America 2026 is a professional conference focused on applied artificial intelligence across enterprise, government and industrial sectors. The event covers AI strategy, implementation practices, ethical and governance considerations, data infrastructure and emerging use cases that connect AI capabilities to operational outcomes. It is geared toward senior leaders, technology architects, data and AI practitioners, product and engineering leaders and business strategists responsible for evaluating, selecting and scaling AI technologies within complex organizational environments.

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Agenda Highlights:

• Keynote Presentations: Strategic visions on AI adoption, leadership priorities and long-term business impact.
• Panel Discussions: Cross-industry discussions on operationalizing AI, governance frameworks and ethical deployment.
• Technical Sessions: Practical deep dives into AI engineering, ML ops, data architecture and production-scale AI pipelines.
• Case Studies: Enterprise-level examples of AI applications in sectors such as healthcare, finance, manufacturing and retail.
• Expo Hall Access: Technology showcases with hands-on demonstrations of AI platforms, tools and solution stacks.

13. AI Dev Summit 2026

• Dates: May 27–28, 2026
• Location: San Francisco, Calif.
• Price: Conference passes range from approximately $600 to $1,800 USD depending on access level and registration tier

AI Dev Summit 2026 is a technical AI conference focused on building, deploying and operating artificial intelligence systems. The program covers applied machine learning, generative AI development, AI infrastructure, MLOps and production engineering practices. It is geared toward software engineers, AI developers, data scientists and technical leaders responsible for designing, implementing and maintaining AI-driven applications in enterprise and startup environments.

Agenda Highlights:

• Keynote Sessions: Technical and strategic perspectives on current trends in AI development and engineering.
• Model Development and Training: Sessions on building, optimizing and evaluating machine learning and generative AI models.
• AI Infrastructure and MLOps: Coverage of deployment pipelines, scalability, observability and operational workflows.
• Applied AI Use Cases: Practical examples of AI systems in production, including chatbots and intelligent applications.
• Developer Networking: Opportunities to connect with engineers, platform teams and AI practitioners.

14. NiCE World 2026

• Dates: June 8–10, 2026
• Location: Orlando, Fla.
• Price: Full conference passes typically range from approximately $1,450 to $1,850 USD depending on registration timing

NiCE World 2026 is a customer experience and contact center conference focused on how enterprises deploy AI-driven platforms to support service operations, workforce engagement and digital customer journeys. The event covers applied AI, automation, analytics and operational best practices within customer service environments. It is geared toward CX leaders, contact center executives, operations managers and technology leaders responsible for transforming customer service at scale using NiCE platforms and partner technologies.

Agenda Highlights:

• Keynote Sessions: Executive perspectives on AI-enabled customer service and experience strategy.
• Breakout Sessions: Role-based and solution-focused content covering analytics, automation, workforce engagement and digital channels.
• Product and Solution Demos: Live demonstrations of AI-driven customer experience and contact center capabilities.
• Customer Case Studies: Practitioner-led examples of operational transformation and platform adoption.
• Networking Events: Structured opportunities for peer exchange among CX and contact center leaders.

15. Customer Contact Week Las Vegas 2026

• Dates: June 22–25, 2026
• Location: Las Vegas, Nev.
• Price: Conference pricing varies by registration type and timing, with tiered passes for practitioners and solution providers

Customer Contact Week Las Vegas 2026 is a large-scale conference focused on customer contact operations and customer experience leadership. The event covers contact center strategy, digital and AI-enabled transformation, workforce engagement, analytics and omnichannel service delivery. It is geared toward senior leaders and experienced practitioners responsible for managing customer service operations, modernizing contact center technology and improving customer and agent outcomes in complex enterprise environments.

Agenda Highlights:

• Keynote Sessions: Executive perspectives on customer contact strategy, digital transformation and industry trends.
• Workshops and Think Tanks: Interactive sessions on AI adoption, automation, workforce management and operational excellence.
• Case Study Breakouts: Practitioner-led examples of contact center transformation and measurable outcomes.
• Expo Hall: Demonstrations of customer contact, analytics, automation and CX technologies.
• Networking Events: Structured opportunities for peer exchange and benchmarking among contact center leaders.

16. Ai4 2026

• Dates: August 4–6, 2026
• Location: Las Vegas, Nev. 
• Price: Conference passes typically start around $1,495 USD, with higher tiers for full access and VIP packages

AI4 2026 is a practitioner-oriented AI conference and expo focused on real-world applications of artificial intelligence across enterprise, government and research sectors. The event covers AI deployment at scale, integration with existing business processes, responsible AI governance, data strategy and industry use cases that connect AI capabilities to measurable operational outcomes. It is geared toward senior leaders, technologists, data and AI practitioners and business executives responsible for evaluating, adopting and scaling AI initiatives within complex organizational environments.

Agenda Highlights:

• Keynote Presentations: Strategic and operational insights from executives and seasoned practitioners on AI adoption and impact.
• Applied Use Cases: Cross-industry sessions demonstrating AI implementations in finance, healthcare, retail, manufacturing and public sector operations.
• Technical Sessions: In-depth coverage of data strategy, model deployment, MLOps, analytics integration and scalable AI systems.
• Panel Discussions: Expert panels on responsible AI, risk management, governance frameworks, organizational alignment and ethics.
• Expo Hall and Networking: Dedicated time for interaction with solution providers, innovators, partners and fellow practitioners.

17. AI & Big Data Expo Europe 2026

• Dates: October 20–21, 2026
• Location: Amsterdam, Netherlands
• Price: Expo access is free with optional paid conference and VIP passes available

AI Expo Europe 2026 is a business and technology AI conference focused on practical artificial intelligence applications, enterprise adoption patterns and solutions for operationalizing AI across industries. The event covers AI strategy, machine learning implementation, data infrastructure, governance and ethics, automation and customer experience transformation. It is geared toward senior leaders, technology and data professionals, AI practitioners and business strategists responsible for evaluating, selecting, deploying and scaling AI technologies within organizational environments.

Agenda Highlights:

• Keynote Sessions: Strategic perspectives on AI adoption, industry trends and future directions.
• Industry Case Studies: Practical examples showcasing AI applications across multiple sectors.
• Technical Sessions: Deep dives into machine learning models, data pipelines, MLOps and integration practices.
• Panel Discussions: Expert dialogue on governance, ethics, risk management and implementation frameworks.
• Expo and Networking: Dedicated time to connect with solution providers, innovators and peers across industries.