The International Association of Convention Centres will host the AIPC Annual Conference 2026 from 28 June to 1 July 2026 in Bilbao. The conference will take place at the Euskalduna Bilbao Conference Centre, bringing together convention centre executives and industry experts from around the world for discussions on the future of the events and meetings sector.
As AIPC’s flagship annual gathering, the conference serves as an important platform for industry leaders to explore evolving trends, share strategic insights, and address the challenges shaping the global convention centre landscape.
Focus on Innovation, Leadership, and Industry Transformation
The 2026 edition of the conference will centre around three major themes that are influencing the future of convention centres: Innovation & Transformation, People & Hospitality, and Legacy & Community Impact.
Through keynote presentations, case studies, panel discussions, and interactive sessions, the programme will examine how convention centres can adapt to rapidly changing economic, technological, and social environments.
One of the key topics will be innovation and transformation within venue operations. Discussions will focus on how technology, financial pressures, sustainability requirements, and evolving client expectations are reshaping venue strategies. Industry experts will share insights on how convention centres can remain competitive while navigating these changes.
Emphasis on Leadership and Hospitality
Another major focus of the conference will be leadership culture and the human dimension of venue management. Sessions will explore how hospitality can serve as a strategic advantage for convention centres and how leadership teams can turn operational challenges into opportunities for innovation.
The programme will also examine the evolving relationship between convention centres and hotels, highlighting the importance of strong partnerships in delivering high-quality event experiences.
Convention Centres as Drivers of Destination Growth
The conference will also address the broader impact of convention centres on cities and communities. Through global examples and expert discussions, participants will explore how venues can contribute to economic resilience, destination branding, and community engagement.
Convention centres are increasingly viewed as anchors within their cities, supporting tourism development and strengthening local economies.
Bilbao as a Model of Urban Transformation
Hosting the conference in Bilbao provides a meaningful context for these discussions. The city is internationally recognised for its successful urban regeneration and transformation into a global cultural and tourism destination.
Delegates will also experience the city’s culture and architecture through the conference’s social programme. Highlights include a gala dinner at the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, where participants will dine beneath the museum’s iconic design.
Additional cultural experiences include a Basque-themed evening at Berroja Winery, featuring regional cuisine and wines, as well as an optional visit to San Mamés Stadium, one of the city’s most recognisable sporting venues.
Celebrating Innovation and Emerging Talent
During the conference, the AIPC Future Shapers programme will highlight emerging professionals from across the association’s global membership. Participants will present innovative projects that address key strategic challenges facing the convention centre industry.
The event will also feature the AIPC Innovation Awards, which recognise creative initiatives and forward-thinking solutions developed by convention centres worldwide.
Registration Now Open
The AIPC Annual Conference 2026 will conclude on 1 July 2026 with a closing session celebrating innovation, leadership, and progress within the global convention centre community.
Registration for the conference is now open, inviting industry professionals from around the world to participate in this important gathering for the international convention centre sector.
