The first details of IBC2026 have been announced by show organisers, including the launch of Future Tech Ignite and a dedicated Start-up Zone.
Other highlights include a new ‘Braindate’ experience, part of the IBC Exchange experience, where attendees will be able to form their own peer groups to discuss key topics impacting the industry.
“The power of IBC is, in a way, the power to convene, so all of those people will be able to meet on site in the Braindate Lounge, and they will be able to sit down, discuss their topics, discuss what they’ve seen, create their own knowledge networks,” explained IBC CEO Mike Crimp during a briefing for media and analysts.
“This reflects a wider ambition for IBC to try and help create and curate clearer pathways from innovation. It could mean broadcasters finding the right technology partner, startups securing the right introductions, a creative discovery, new tools, or a business leader coming with new thoughts.”
“Future Tech, Content Everywhere, the Accelerator programme, the conference, all provide a platform for the industry to come together, challenge thinking, and discover what’s next, and create new opportunities,” added Crimp.
Future Tech Ignite will connect more than 50 start-ups, entrepreneurs and emerging technologies with the wider M&E ecosystem through its new Start-up Zone and Ignite Stage, which will feature a four-day programme with future-focused content, talent and skills development sessions, and a new creative showcase, said IBC.
Organisers also announced the first round of speakers for IBC Conference, including Claire Enders (CEO and founder of Enders Analysis), Eline van der Velden (founder and CEO of Particle6), Guy-Laurent Epstein (executive director of marketing at UEFA), Yiannis Exarchos (CEO, OBS) and Marion Rathmann (group VP content and programming networks, Warner Bros Discovery).
The IBC team added that momentum for the show is building, with the exhibition now expected to exceed 45,000 sqm, showcasing over 1,200 exhibitors across 14 halls.
IBC returns to RAI Amsterdam from 11th–14th September.
