A smarter way to learn: an education program to meet the moment
The meetings and events world isn’t waiting for “the new normal” to settle—and neither are we.
Our 2026 education program reflects the reality planners are working in right now: faster change, higher expectations, tougher regulations and a growing need to design events that truly work for people. Not someday. Today.
At the heart of this year’s education program is a clear intention—to support event professionals navigating constant change while helping them build skills for what comes next. As Tahira Endean, our Head of Programming, explains, the focus is firmly on relevance, “The world keeps shifting—AI tools and mindsets are reshaping workflows, sustainability requirements are hardening into policy, and attendees are arriving with expectations that didn’t exist even a few years ago. This year’s program is a direct response to where the industry is right now—and where it’s heading.”
Our education program spans 11 tracks, giving you the freedom to mix, match and design a learning experience that fits your role, goals and challenges. Four of those tracks are new for 2026, each shaped by real-world pressures and opportunities emerging across the industry. Together, they balance practical, professional development with the human skills needed to stay resilient, creative and purposeful.
With an estimated 15–20% of the global population considered neurodivergent, inclusive design is no longer optional—it’s essential. This new track explores how environments, experiences and event formats can be designed so more people can thrive.
Sessions range from inclusive design principles to unexpected perspectives, including a stage director applying theatrical techniques to map the emotional arc of an event. Elsewhere, you’re invited to rethink success itself through the introduction of a “Joy Meter”—a way to measure emotional uplift alongside traditional data, demonstrating how delight can drive engagement and commercial results.
Design takes center stage, inspired by our Design Matters Talking Point and the belief that thoughtful design is one of the industry’s most powerful differentiators. With Frankfurt RheinMain named World Design Capital 2026, the timing couldn’t be better. Through show and tell sessions and guided tours on the show floor, you’ll see how design choices—big and small—help brands and events stand out, stay memorable and create lasting impact.
As ESG reporting becomes mandatory for many European organizations, sustainability conversations are shifting from ambition to accountability. You’ll find out what regenerative design looks like in practice, as industry practitioners share candid insights into what’s worked, what hasn’t, and what they’ve learned along the way—from circular material use and waste reduction to supplier collaboration and legacy planning. The emphasis is on strengthening events through regenerative thinking, not simply minimizing their footprint.
Building on strong demand for technology and AI learning at previous shows, you’ll be able to explore how to make better use of existing tech ecosystems, consolidate overlapping platforms and identify where technology adds real value. There’s also a timely deep dive into scams and deepfakes, with practical guidance on protecting organizations from fake RFPs, cloned identities and increasingly sophisticated digital threats.
Across all 11 tracks, our education program is designed to deliver something tangible: a framework, a toolkit, a practice, or a meaningful connection with others facing similar challenges.
All education is free to attend. Many sessions also qualify for CMP, CSEP and ICCASkills accreditation.
Explore the program
