The International Association of Convention Centres (AIPC) will host its Annual Conference 2026 in Bilbao, Spain, from 28 June to 1 July 2026. Taking place at the Euskalduna Bilbao Conference Centre, the event will gather convention centre leaders and industry experts from around the world for three days of strategic dialogue, peer exchange and forward-looking insight.
As AIPC’s flagship annual gathering, the Conference provides a high-level forum for addressing the evolving role of convention centres within increasingly complex economic, technological and societal environments.
The 2026 edition is structured around three interconnected leadership challenges shaping the future of the sector: Innovation & Transformation, People & Hospitality, and Legacy & Community Impact.
Across these themes, the programme combines international keynote perspectives, real-world case studies, panel debates and interactive leadership formats designed to translate strategic reflection into practical leadership action.
Innovation will be explored from multiple angles from internal organisational creativity to external forces reshaping venue strategy through technology, financial pressure, sustainability demands and changing client expectations. Discussions will examine how convention centres can strengthen competitiveness while adapting to rapid transformation.
A strong emphasis will also be placed on leadership culture and the human dimension of venue management. Sessions will address hospitality as a strategic differentiator, the evolution of partnerships between venues and hotels, and the ability of leadership teams to turn operational challenges into catalysts for innovation.
The programme further considers the long-term impact of events on destinations and communities. Through global case examples and strategic dialogue, the Conference will examine how convention centres can act as anchors within their cities contributing to economic resilience, destination identity and community pride.
Bilbao provides a particularly fitting backdrop for these conversations. Internationally recognised for its urban regeneration and global repositioning, the city exemplifies how long-term vision, governance alignment and ecosystem collaboration can redefine a destination’s trajectory.
The social programme reflects this connection between venue, city and culture. Delegates will attend a Gala Dinner in the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, dining beneath the museum’s iconic architecture.
A Basque Evening at Berroja Winery will offer an immersive cultural experience combining local gastronomy, regional wines and panoramic vineyard views. An optional visit to San Mamés Stadium will further showcase Bilbao’s civic and sporting identity.
Throughout the Conference, the AIPC Future Shapers programme will highlight emerging talent from across the membership, presenting forward-looking projects addressing strategic industry challenges. The AIPC Innovation Awards will recognise creative initiatives developed by convention centres worldwide.
The AIPC Annual Conference 2026 will conclude on 1 July with a closing session recognising innovation, leadership and collective progress within the global convention centre community.
Registration is now open.
For further information, please visit: AIPC Annual Conference – AIPC
Enquiries: secretariat@aipc.org
