Unmissable SaaS Events in 2026: Your Guide to the Top Industry Conferences

6 February 2026

Alright, so 2026 is looking pretty busy for anyone in the tech world, especially if you’re into Software as a Service (SaaS). There are a bunch of conferences happening all over the place, and it can be a bit much trying to figure out which ones are actually worth your time and money. We’ve sifted through them to give you a heads-up on the saas events that seem to be the most important for staying on top of things, meeting people, and generally just getting a feel for where the industry is headed. Think of this as your cheat sheet to not miss out on the big conversations and connections.

Key Takeaways

SaaStock Dublin is the go-to for SaaS folks, seriously. It’s all about making real connections, whether you need investors, partners, or even a co-founder. They even help match you up.
Web Summit in Lisbon is huge and covers pretty much everything in tech. If you want to see the sheer scale of the industry and do some serious networking, this is it.
CES 2026 and MWC Barcelona 2026 are the big trade shows to kick off and wrap up the year, showing off all the latest consumer tech and mobile innovations.
Gartner events, like the IT Symposium/Xpo and Data & Analytics Summit, are where CIOs and IT leaders go to talk strategy, tech trends, and leadership challenges.
Events like London Tech Week and Viva Technology Paris are great for spotting innovation, especially in AI and the startup scene, and understanding what’s next for digital transformation.

1. SaaStock Dublin

Alright, let’s talk about SaaStock Dublin. If you’re in the SaaS game, whether you’re building something new or looking to buy, this is the place to be. Seriously, it’s the main event for anyone involved in the Software as a Service world. They really focus on making sure you meet the right people – not just hoping for it. Think AI-powered introductions and scheduled meetings. You can walk away with a solid list of new connections, like potential investors, partners, or even your next business partner. It’s all about making those connections that actually move the needle for your business.

While the official dates for 2026 haven’t dropped yet, it usually happens in the fall, probably around October, at the Royal Dublin Society. Based on past events, expect a lot of focus on AI and how it’s changing SaaS. It’s not just about listening to talks; it’s about getting deals done and getting real insights. Sponsors have reported some pretty impressive returns, like three to ten times their investment, which tells you something.

Here’s a quick rundown of what you can expect:

Curated Networking: They use smart matching to set up meetings.
High-Value Connections: Meet decision-makers from growing companies, investors, and potential collaborators.
Actionable Content: Learn about the latest trends and strategies in SaaS.
Focus on ROI: The whole event is geared towards driving business results.

2. Web Summit Lisbon

Web Summit in Lisbon is a massive event, seriously, it’s one of Europe’s biggest tech gatherings. We’re talking over 70,000 people from more than 160 countries all packed into one place. It’s not just about sitting in sessions, though; there are over 20 stages and a huge number of startups showing off what they’ve built. Think of it as where the tech world, culture, and business really collide.

The sheer scale of Web Summit makes it a unique place to connect with just about anyone in the tech industry. You’ll find founders, investors, developers, and even policymakers all under one roof. They even have this app that helps set up meetings, which is pretty handy when you’re trying to make the most of your time there. It’s a good spot to see what’s new and get a feel for where the industry is heading.

Here’s a quick look at what you can expect:

Diverse Attendees: From early-stage startups to established tech giants, investors looking for the next big thing, and media covering the latest trends.
Extensive Content: Sessions cover a wide range of topics, from AI and machine learning to fintech, sustainability, and the future of work.
Networking Opportunities: Beyond the official schedule, the famous Night Summit events across Lisbon offer a more relaxed setting to build connections.

While the exact dates for November 2026 haven’t been announced yet, keep an eye on their website. Tickets usually go on sale closer to the event, so don’t miss out on what’s shaping up to be another huge year for tech.

3. CES 2026

Alright, let’s talk about CES 2026. This is the big one, the Consumer Electronics Show, happening in Las Vegas from January 6th to 9th. If you want to see what’s next in tech, this is where you need to be. Think of it as the ultimate preview for pretty much everything electronic that’s going to hit the shelves, or at least the news, in the coming year.

CES is massive. We’re talking thousands of companies, from the biggest names like Samsung and Google to tiny startups showing off their first inventions. It’s a place where you can see the latest in robots, smart home gadgets, cars that drive themselves (or at least help you drive), and all sorts of entertainment tech. It’s really the place where new tech trends are born.

What can you actually do there?

See the Future: Get hands-on with prototypes and early releases. This is where you’ll see what the next generation of smartphones, TVs, and wearables will look like.
Network: You’ll find tons of industry leaders, investors, and media all in one spot. It’s a good chance to connect with people who are shaping the tech world.
Learn: There are usually a lot of talks and presentations from big names in the industry, discussing where technology is headed.

Getting in isn’t exactly like buying a ticket to a concert. It’s mostly for people in the industry, so you’ll need to register and show you’re part of the tech world. They have different pass options, with the ‘Exhibits Plus Pass’ being the more affordable way to see the show floor and keynotes, while the ‘Deluxe Conference Pass’ gets you into more sessions. Prices can vary, but expect to pay a few hundred dollars for basic access, and more for the full conference experience.

4. MWC Barcelona 2026

MWC Barcelona is back in 2026, and it’s still the biggest show in town for anything related to mobile technology. If you’re into the latest smartphones, the future of network speeds like 6G, or how the Internet of Things is really going to work, this is where you need to be. It’s held at Fira Gran Via and usually pulls in over 100,000 people, with tons of companies showing off their stuff. You’ll see big names like Ericsson, Nokia, and Qualcomm there.

This event is where the future of communication gets decided. It’s not just about gadgets; they talk about new spectrum standards and how carriers and tech companies are going to work together. You’ll hear from government folks and CEOs, all discussing what’s next. Plus, there are plenty of chances to meet people and make deals, whether you’re in the networking lounges or checking out the exhibitor booths.

Here’s a quick look at what you can expect:

Cutting-edge Tech Demos: See the newest phones and network gear in action.
Industry Leader Keynotes: Hear from the people shaping the mobile world.
Networking Opportunities: Connect with thousands of professionals from across the globe.
Future of Connectivity: Discussions on 5G, 6G, and beyond.

It’s a massive event, so if you want to get a handle on where mobile tech is headed, checking out the 2026 agenda is a good first step. Ticket information usually comes out closer to the date, so keep an eye on their official site.

5. Gartner IT Symposium/Xpo Barcelona

This is Gartner’s big show for IT leaders, and it usually happens in Barcelona around November. Think of it as the place where CIOs and other top tech folks gather to talk about everything important in the IT world. They cover strategy, new technologies, and how to actually lead teams through all the changes.

It’s a pretty massive event, so you can expect a lot of different sessions and discussions. They tend to cover a wide range of topics, from the nitty-gritty of how systems work to the bigger picture of managing IT departments and planning for the future. It’s a good spot to get a feel for where the industry is headed.

Here’s what you can generally expect:

Keynotes from Gartner analysts: Get insights directly from the people who study the tech landscape.
Breakout sessions: Dive deeper into specific areas like cloud computing, cybersecurity, data analytics, and AI.
Networking opportunities: Connect with peers and industry leaders facing similar challenges.

It’s a prime event for anyone in a senior IT role looking to stay ahead of the curve. If you’re trying to figure out the next steps for your organization’s technology, this is a place to get some solid ideas. You can sign up to be the first to receive the 2026 conference agenda here.

While the exact dates for 2026 haven’t been announced yet, it’s a safe bet to mark your calendar for sometime in November.

6. CloudFest Rust

CloudFest is back in Rust, Germany, and it’s shaping up to be the go-to event for anyone serious about cloud infrastructure. Forget stuffy boardrooms; this conference takes over Europa-Park, a full-blown amusement park. It’s a pretty wild setting for talking about hosting, cloud, and security, but it seems to work. They say it’s the world’s number one cloud infrastructure event, and honestly, with over 10,000 people showing up, it’s hard to argue.

This isn’t just about listening to talks, though there are plenty of those. It’s more about getting hands-on and making connections. You’ll find keynotes, panels, and a huge exhibition hall packed with companies. But the real draw might be the networking opportunities that happen outside the formal sessions. Think of it as a festival vibe for tech professionals.

Here’s a quick look at what you can expect:

Deep Dives into Cloud Tech: Sessions cover everything from the latest in cloud computing to advanced hosting solutions.
Cybersecurity Focus: Expect discussions on current threats and how to build more secure systems.
Networking Galore: With thousands of attendees, the chances to meet new partners and collaborators are massive.

The agenda for CloudFest 2026 runs from March 23rd to 26th, offering four full days of content. It’s a great chance to get practical insights and maybe even forge some new business relationships. If you’re involved in internet infrastructure, this is definitely one to mark on your calendar. You can check out the full CloudFest 2026 agenda for more details.

7. Viva Technology Paris

Viva Technology, often just called VivaTech, is a pretty big deal if you’re into innovation, especially in Europe. It happens in Paris, usually around mid-June. Think of it as a massive gathering where startups, big companies, and investors all come together to check out what’s new and exciting in the tech world. It’s not just about talks; there are tons of companies showing off their latest stuff, and you can actually meet people who are making things happen.

This event is a great place to get a feel for where European tech is heading. You’ll see a lot of focus on things like AI, sustainable tech, and how technology is changing culture. It’s a good spot to find potential partners or even just get inspired by what other people are building. They usually have a lot going on:

Startup Showcases: Thousands of startups present their ideas and products.
Investor Meetings: Opportunities to connect with venture capitalists and other funders.
Corporate Innovation Labs: Big companies show how they’re using new tech.
Thematic Stages: Talks and panels covering specific tech areas like AI, blockchain, and green tech.

It’s a place where business meets the future, all wrapped up in a lively festival atmosphere. If you’re tracking digital transformation or looking for the next big thing in European tech, VivaTech is definitely one to mark on your calendar.

8. London Tech Week

London Tech Week is a pretty big deal, happening right in the heart of the UK’s capital. It’s basically a city-wide festival celebrating all things tech, and it’s been going for a decade now. Think of it as a massive gathering where you can check out the latest in AI, fintech, quantum computing, healthtech, and even climatetech. They have tons of sessions, over 400 actually, and a bunch of partner events too. It’s backed by the UK Government and big names like Google and Amazon, so you know it’s legit.

What’s cool about London Tech Week is how spread out it is. You’ve got main events at places like Olympia London, but also stuff happening in Westminster and Shoreditch. This means you can really tailor your experience. Maybe you want to catch a talk on quantum stuff in the morning and then hit up a networking event by the Thames in the evening. It’s all about building your own agenda. You’ll hear from some really interesting people, like founders of big banks and researchers from places like DeepMind. They also have events for students and discussions about diversity in tech. It’s a good place to get a feel for what’s happening in the European tech scene. You can find out more about the London Tech.eu Summit which is part of the broader tech calendar.

While specific ticket prices for London Tech Week 2026 weren’t available when this was written, it’s usually a good idea to keep an eye on their official website for registration details. It’s definitely an event worth considering if you’re involved in the tech industry.

9. Dell Technologies World Las Vegas

Alright, let’s talk about Dell Technologies World in Las Vegas. This is Dell’s big annual shindig, and it’s usually a pretty packed event. Think of it as a place where IT folks, from the big bosses to the hands-on engineers, all gather to chat about the latest in tech. We’re talking about stuff like AI, how to manage cloud setups that are all over the place (that’s the hybrid cloud bit), keeping data safe, and, of course, cybersecurity.

Michael Dell himself usually shows up to give a keynote, and you’ll see demos from big names like Intel and NVIDIA. They typically have a ton of breakout sessions, like over 200, covering all sorts of topics. Plus, there are chances to get your hands dirty with some practical labs and maybe even snag a certification. They also throw a customer appreciation party, which can be pretty fun with live performers.

So, why should you bother going? Well, if you’re looking for real-world strategies to update your company’s tech or figure out how to make your cloud systems work better, this is a good spot. You can hear how other companies are using AI and big data to get things done faster. Dell also uses this event to show off what’s coming next in their servers, storage, and edge computing gear. It’s definitely worth checking out if you’re involved in IT strategy or architecture.

Here’s a quick look at what you might expect:

Keynotes: Hear directly from Dell leaders and industry experts.
Breakout Sessions: Dive deep into specific technologies and trends.
Hands-on Labs: Get practical experience with new tools and platforms.
Networking: Connect with peers, partners, and Dell representatives.

While the exact dates and ticket prices for 2026 haven’t been announced yet, it’s usually held around May. Keep an eye on their official website for the latest details. It’s a solid event for anyone serious about enterprise technology.

10. Dreamforce San Francisco

Dreamforce, Salesforce’s massive annual event, is set to take over San Francisco again in 2026. It’s more than just a conference; it’s a full-blown festival of cloud innovation, learning, and networking. Think big keynotes from Salesforce leaders, like Marc Benioff, where they’ll spill the beans on the latest AI Cloud and CRM updates. The Customer Success Expo is also a huge draw, packed with partners and apps built on the Salesforce platform. They usually throw in some celebrity speakers and that famous Dreamfest concert too, which is always a good time and supports a good cause.

If you’re in sales, marketing, or IT, this is a prime spot to pick up new skills. You’ll find sessions covering all sorts of topics:

AI-driven CRM automation and how to actually use it.
Getting the most out of your data with Tableau.
Connecting different systems using MuleSoft.
Industry-specific solutions tailored for different business types.

Beyond the tech talks, there are plenty of chances to connect with others. Community meet-ups and evening events are common. Salesforce also likes to highlight its "business as a platform for change" idea, with tracks on philanthropy and mindfulness. Ticket details for 2026 usually come out closer to the date, so keep an eye on the Dreamforce website.

11. IFA Berlin

IFA Berlin is a massive event, and it’s been around for ages – seriously, it’s Europe’s oldest and biggest consumer electronics and appliance show. Think of it as the place where all the big global brands, like Samsung, LG, and Sony, decide to show off their new stuff for the European market, usually right before the holiday season kicks off. It’s not just about the usual TVs and phones, though. You’ll find a whole lot more, including smart home tech, gadgets for the internet of things, and even electric mobility solutions. They also have this cool area called IFA NEXT, which is all about showcasing new innovations and prototypes.

What’s really neat is that it’s a mix of trade days and public days. This means you get to see industry professionals doing their thing, but also get that consumer excitement. It really gives you a full picture of what’s happening in consumer tech. You can actually try out products, chat with the people who make them, and catch talks at the IFA + Summit about things like IoT security and making tech more sustainable. If you’re in retail or work as a journalist, this is basically your launchpad for the rest of the year. Plus, Berlin itself is a pretty fun city, and there are always a bunch of side events and parties happening, which are great for just casually meeting people. You can register your interest for the event on the IFA Berlin 2026 webpage. They haven’t released ticket prices yet, but keep an eye out.

12. LEAP Riyadh

Alright, let’s talk about LEAP in Riyadh. This event has really blown up, becoming one of the biggest tech expos out there. It’s happening from April 13th to 16th, 2026, at the Riyadh Exhibition & Conference Center. Seriously, they’re expecting over 200,000 attendees, more than a thousand speakers, and 1,500 exhibitors. That’s a lot of people and a lot of tech.

The theme for 2026 is "Into New Worlds," which pretty much covers everything from AI and robotics to smart cities, fintech, and even space tech. You’ll see major global companies like Microsoft and Oracle sharing the floor with startups from the Middle East and North Africa region. It’s all tied into Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, aiming to boost the tech scene there.

What’s cool is that it’s not just about sitting and listening. There are hackathons to get your creative juices flowing, VC meetups if you’ve got a big idea, and entertainment zones to keep the energy high. It’s a four-day marathon of innovation, networking, and culture.

Here’s a quick look at the pass options:

General Pass: Free if you register before January 18, 2026, then it’s $50. Good for getting your feet wet.
Priority Pass: Costs $400 (with a 50% discount). This gets you access to lounges, networking events, and some perks on-site.
VIP Pass: A hefty $2,800 (with a 20% discount). This includes a concierge, premium lounges, and exclusive access to certain areas.

If you’re looking to connect with people from all over the world and get a feel for the tech scene in the GCC, Africa, and Asia, LEAP is definitely worth considering. It’s a place where billions in partnership deals have been announced, and they’re expecting even more in 2026. You can find more details about the Crypto & Blockchain Trade Fair happening in Riyadh as well, showing the city’s growing importance in the tech landscape.

13. STEP Conference Dubai

STEP Conference in Dubai is a big deal for startups in the Middle East. It’s happening on February 11–12, 2026, right in Dubai Internet City. This year’s theme is "Intelligence Everywhere: The AI Economy," which tells you pretty much everything you need to know about the focus. They expect over 8,000 people, 400 startups, and 100 investors to show up. You’ll find talks and networking opportunities covering areas like fintech, cloud tech, and media. Big names from companies like Careem, Microsoft, and Amazon are usually there to share what they’re working on and how they see the future.

This event is really the pulse of the tech scene in the MENA region. It’s a great place to see what local startups are doing, especially with the Pitch Competition and the Startup Basecamp. If you’re a founder, the Mentor’s Corner is where you can get advice from people who’ve been there. For investors, it’s a chance to find the next big thing coming out of the region. Plus, Dubai itself is a pretty energetic place, so it makes the whole experience that much more interesting.

Here’s a quick look at what you can expect:

Focus on AI and the Digital Economy: The theme highlights the growing importance of artificial intelligence and its impact on businesses.
Startup Spotlight: Dedicated areas and competitions to showcase emerging companies and their innovations.
Investor Connections: Opportunities to meet and connect with venture capitalists looking for new opportunities.
Networking Hub: A place to meet peers, potential partners, and industry leaders.

Getting a ticket can be a bit of a process. The Master Pass gets you into everything – talks, workshops, and the expo floor. If you’re a startup, they have packages that include a booth and passes. Keep an eye out for early bird discounts; they can save you a good chunk of money.

14. Devoxx Poland Krakow

Devoxx Poland in Krakow is a big deal for developers, especially if you’re into Java or just love crafting good software. It’s Poland’s largest conference for folks like us, pulling in over 2,700 attendees. You can expect a solid focus on deep technical talks and plenty of chances to connect with other tech pros.

This event is projected to happen from June 17-19, 2026, at the ICE Krakow Congress Centre. It’s the kind of place where you can really dig into the nitty-gritty of coding and architecture.

Here’s what you can generally expect:

Deep Dives into Java Ecosystems: From the latest JVM features to popular frameworks, expect detailed sessions.
Software Craftsmanship Focus: Talks often cover best practices, clean code, and building robust applications.
Networking Opportunities: Connect with fellow developers, architects, and tech leads from Poland and beyond.
Emerging Technologies: While Java is a core, they also touch on related tech and modern development trends.

It’s a great spot to get your technical skills sharpened and see what’s new in the development world.

15. Black Hat USA

Black Hat USA is back in Las Vegas for its 29th year, running from August 1st to August 6th, 2026. This event is pretty much the big leagues for anyone serious about cybersecurity. It’s a six-day marathon that kicks off with four days of really hands-on technical training. Think deep dives into things like penetration testing and malware analysis, often taught by the very people who developed the tools. After that, you get two days packed with briefings where researchers drop the latest findings on vulnerabilities and new exploits. It’s where you hear about zero-day stuff before it hits the news.

The event takes place at the Mandalay Bay Convention Center. You’ll find major players like IBM Security and CrowdStrike in the Business Hall, and Arsenal Labs is always a hit for live demos of open-source tools. What’s cool is the sheer mix of people – tens of thousands show up, from government folks and big Fortune 500 companies to academics. It’s a rare chance to connect with a wide range of security minds.

This is your chance to get ahead of emerging cyber threats.

Here’s a quick look at what to expect:

Intensive Training: Pre-conference sessions cover practical skills in areas like reverse engineering and exploit development.
Cutting-Edge Briefings: Hear directly from researchers about the latest vulnerabilities and defense strategies.
Industry Showcase: Explore the Business Hall and Arsenal Labs for new tools and technologies.
Networking Opportunities: Connect with peers, leaders, and recruiters in the cybersecurity field.

Ticket information for Black Hat USA 2026 isn’t out yet, so keep an eye on their official website for updates.

16. SIGGRAPH

SIGGRAPH is the big one for anyone into computer graphics and interactive tech. It’s been around for ages, like 53 years, and it’s where all the cool new stuff in rendering, animation, and virtual reality gets shown off. Think of it as the place where the future of visual tech is born, often months or even years before you see it in movies or games.

This event pulls in a huge crowd – researchers, artists, engineers, you name it. They all come together to check out the latest advancements. You’ll find tons of sessions covering everything from the nitty-gritty of technical papers to lively panel discussions. Plus, there’s a massive expo floor where companies like NVIDIA, Adobe, and Unity show off their newest tools and technologies.

What makes SIGGRAPH really stand out are its unique events. The Electronic Theater is basically a film festival for visual effects, and the Emerging Technologies Showcase often has some mind-blowing stuff like holograms and VR experiences that really mess with your senses. It’s also a great spot for career growth, with things like Birds-of-a-Feather meet-ups for informal chats and a Jobs Fair where major studios are always looking for new talent.

See cutting-edge rendering and AI-driven graphics.
Explore virtual and augmented reality innovations.
Connect with industry leaders and potential employers.

SIGGRAPH 2026 is scheduled for July 19–23 at the Los Angeles Convention Center. Keep an eye on their official website for ticket information, as it usually becomes available closer to the event date.

17. ATxSG Singapore

Asia Tech x Singapore, or ATxSG as it’s commonly known, is shaping up to be a major event in the region for 2026. It’s not just one conference, but more like a whole week dedicated to technology, bringing together folks from business, government, and the innovation scene. Think of it as a big festival for tech.

ATxSG really has two main parts. There’s the ATxSummit, which is more of a high-level, invite-only gathering for leaders to discuss big ideas. Then there’s ATxEnterprise, which is a huge public expo. This is where you’ll see all sorts of new tech on display. It actually includes several other events under its umbrella, like CommunicAsia, BroadcastAsia, and The AI Summit Singapore. So, you get a lot packed into one place.

What’s on the agenda? They’re talking about some pretty important stuff for the next decade. We’re talking about how to manage AI, building out 5G networks, making sure everyone can access digital tools, and how to grow technology in a way that’s good for the planet. It’s a place where you can really get a feel for what’s happening in tech across Asia and how it connects with the rest of the world.

Here’s a quick look at what you might find:

Policy and Business Discussions: Hear from ministers and top executives about the future of tech regulation and business strategies.
Innovation Showcases: Explore the latest gadgets and software from established companies and emerging startups.
Networking Opportunities: Connect with key players from across the Asia-Pacific region and beyond.

The dates for ATxSG 2026 are set for May 20–22, with the main expo happening at the Singapore EXPO. It’s a good chance to see how Asia is leading in areas like smart cities and new financial tech.

18. Gartner Data & Analytics Summit

Alright, let’s talk about the Gartner Data & Analytics Summit. If you’re someone who deals with data, analytics, or AI in a leadership role, this is probably on your radar. It’s basically Gartner’s big event for folks trying to figure out the whole data strategy thing.

Think of it as a place to cut through the noise, especially with all the AI hype flying around. They focus on what’s actually practical and how to build a data strategy that works for the future. You’ll hear about the latest in managing data, what trends are popping up, how to handle governance, and designing your data architecture. It’s a good spot to connect with other leaders in the data, analytics, and AI space, plus get insights straight from Gartner’s own experts.

Here’s a quick look at what you might expect:

Keynote presentations from industry leaders discussing the future of data.
Breakout sessions covering topics like AI implementation, data management, and analytics platforms.
Networking opportunities with peers and vendors to share challenges and solutions.
Expert advice on navigating the complexities of data governance and privacy.

This summit is really for leaders who are trying to build a real-world data strategy and figure out how to actually use AI at scale. It’s happening in London, UK, from May 11-13, 2026. Definitely one to consider if you’re serious about making your data work harder for your organization.

19. Gartner CIO Leadership Forum

The Gartner CIO Leadership Forum is a pretty focused event, happening in early March 2026 in London. It’s not for everyone, mind you. This one is specifically for CIOs and CTOs, the folks really in charge of the big IT picture for their companies. Think of it as a high-level meeting where you can hash out the really tough stuff.

What kind of tough stuff? Well, they talk about things like how to manage IT budgets, figuring out the best cloud platforms to use, and how to actually bring AI into your business without it being a total mess. It’s designed for those who have to make the big decisions about where the company’s technology is headed.

Here’s what you can expect:

Strategic Planning Sessions: Discussions on long-term tech roadmaps and digital transformation.
Budget and Resource Allocation: Insights into managing IT finances effectively.
Emerging Technology Evaluation: Deep dives into AI, cloud, and security trends relevant to enterprise strategy.
Peer-to-Peer Networking: Opportunities to connect with other senior IT leaders facing similar challenges.

This forum is really about solidifying those long-term technology plans and figuring out the best way to invest in digital tools. It’s less about the nitty-gritty technical details and more about the overarching strategy that guides an entire organization’s technology choices.

20. Tech Summit Warsaw

Warsaw plays host to the Tech Summit, a significant event for professionals in the data and AI sectors. This conference is all about getting practical, focusing on things like AI-native data engineering, building modern data platforms, and figuring out how to actually use AI in businesses. It’s a great spot for decision-makers from Poland and the surrounding region to connect and discuss what’s really working.

The summit aims to cut through the hype and focus on actionable strategies for enterprise AI. You’ll find discussions on leadership in data science, the latest in data management, and how to set up your data architecture for the future. It’s less about grand theories and more about what you can implement when you get back to the office.

Here’s a look at what makes it stand out:

AI-Native Data Engineering: Sessions often explore how to build data systems that are designed from the ground up for AI and machine learning.
Modern Data Platforms: Get insights into the tools and approaches for managing data in today’s complex environments.
Actionable Enterprise AI: Learn how companies are successfully deploying AI to solve real business problems, not just experiment.

It’s a chance to network with peers and hear from experts who are on the front lines of data and AI innovation. If you’re looking to understand the practical application of these technologies, this is definitely an event to consider. For those interested in the growing role of women in tech, the Perspektywy Women in Tech Summit also takes place in Warsaw, offering a complementary perspective on the industry’s landscape.

21. AI & Big Data Expo Global London

Alright, let’s talk about the AI & Big Data Expo Global in London. This event is happening in late 2026, and it’s a pretty big deal if you’re into artificial intelligence and how we handle massive amounts of data. Think of it as a place where people who are actually building and using these technologies come together.

The main goal is to figure out what’s new and what’s actually working in the world of AI and big data. You’ll hear from folks who are leading the charge at major companies, not just tech giants, but also businesses in retail, finance, and healthcare. It’s a good chance to see real-world applications and learn from their experiences.

Here’s a peek at some of the topics they usually cover:

How to use AI responsibly and ethically.
Making sense of all the data you collect and how to use it.
Getting AI to work better for customers and employees.
The latest in AI tools and how businesses are adopting them.

It’s not just about listening to talks, though. There’s an expo floor where you can check out new tech and meet the companies behind it. Plus, there are plenty of chances to chat with other attendees, which can be just as useful as the formal sessions. If you’re trying to keep up with the fast pace of AI and data, this is definitely one to mark on your calendar.

22. Youth Marketing Strategy London

Alright, let’s talk about the Youth Marketing Strategy London event, or YMS LDN as folks call it. If you’re trying to figure out what makes younger generations tick, this is probably where you want to be. It’s all about understanding how to connect with Gen Z and younger millennials, which, let’s be honest, is getting trickier by the minute.

This event brings together a ton of people who are actually doing the work in youth marketing. You’ll find speakers from big brands, people who are deep in the digital world, and even those focused on higher education and how to reach students. They usually break down the content into different streams, so you can focus on what matters most to you, whether that’s retail, e-commerce, or just general marketing trends.

What’s cool is that they often have sessions where you hear directly from young people themselves. It’s not just marketers guessing; it’s a chance to get real insights. Plus, they usually share their latest research on youth trends, which is pretty handy. And, of course, there’s plenty of time to just chat with other people in the industry. You know, swap stories and figure out what’s working.

Expect a mix of:

Talks from over 150 speakers, covering a wide range of topics.
Different content tracks focusing on areas like retail, digital marketing, and higher education.
Opportunities to hear directly from young consumers about their preferences.
Networking sessions to connect with peers and potential collaborators.
Insights from the latest youth trends research reports.

It’s a good spot to get a handle on the current landscape and maybe pick up some new ideas for your own campaigns. Definitely worth checking out if your work involves reaching a younger audience.

23. Digital Transformation Conference NYC

This conference is all about how businesses are changing with new tech. It’s a place where people talk about what’s next and how to actually make it happen. You’ll hear from folks who are leading these changes and get some real ideas you can use.

The main goal is to figure out how to use technology to make businesses better and more efficient.

Here’s what you can expect:

Keynote talks: Hear from leaders about their experiences and visions for the future.
Workshops: Get hands-on with new tools and strategies.
Networking: Connect with other professionals facing similar challenges and opportunities.

It’s a good spot to learn about the latest trends and how they might affect your work, especially if you’re involved in making big changes within a company.

24. Slush Helsinki

Slush Helsinki is a pretty big deal if you’re into the startup and venture capital scene. It’s known for being super founder-focused, and honestly, it feels like the whole tech world converges there for a few days. They say it’s the world’s leading startup event, and it definitely has a unique vibe – kind of dark, intense, and all about what’s coming next.

What makes Slush stand out is the sheer concentration of people who matter. We’re talking about investors with trillions in assets under management, and a really good ratio of VCs to founders. It’s not just about listening to talks; it’s about making connections. They have this tool that helps set up over 20,000 meetings during the event, which is pretty wild.

Here’s a quick rundown of what you can expect:

Founder-Centric Approach: The whole event is geared towards helping founders build companies. You’ll hear from people who’ve actually done it.
Investor Access: With so many VCs in one place, it’s a prime spot to get noticed or find that next big investment.
Deep Tech Focus: If you’re working on something cutting-edge, this is where you’ll find others doing the same.
Networking Opportunities: Beyond the official meetings, there are tons of chances to connect with people.

It’s run by students and recent grads, which is kind of cool, and they’re all about helping founders change the world. So, if you want to be in the thick of the startup action, Slush is definitely one to mark on your calendar.

25. KubeCon and CloudNativeCon and more

Alright, let’s talk about KubeCon and CloudNativeCon. If you’re even remotely involved in cloud-native tech, you’ve probably heard of this one. It’s basically the main event for anyone building things with Kubernetes and the whole cloud-native ecosystem. Think of it as the place where all the people who actually build and maintain the tools you use, plus the folks using them in the real world, get together.

This isn’t just a conference where you sit and listen to talks, though there are plenty of those. It’s where you can actually connect with the project maintainers, see what’s new, and get a feel for where cloud-native is heading. They often have co-located events focusing on specific areas like platform engineering, observability, or even AI and machine learning pipelines, which is pretty neat.

Here’s what you can generally expect:

Keynotes and Vision Talks: Get the big picture on cloud-native trends and future directions.
Project Pavilion: A space to see what different CNCF projects are up to and chat with the teams behind them.
Maintainer Summit: An exclusive gathering for the people who make the cloud-native projects tick.
Networking: Seriously, this is a huge part of it. You’ll meet developers, architects, and operations folks from all over.

The real draw here is the depth of technical content and the chance to connect with the core community. It’s where you can get answers to those really tricky questions you’ve been wrestling with, or just find out what other companies are doing to make their cloud-native setups work. It’s a big deal for anyone managing cloud infrastructure or working with container orchestration.

Wrapping It Up

So, that’s a look at some of the major tech and SaaS events happening in 2026. It’s a lot, I know. Picking the right ones can feel overwhelming, but remember to think about what you really need. Are you looking to make new connections, learn about the latest AI stuff, or maybe find your next big partner? The events we’ve talked about, from the big gatherings in Lisbon and Barcelona to more focused ones like SaaStock, all offer something a bit different. Don’t feel like you have to go to everything. Just pick the events that make the most sense for your goals this year. Happy event planning!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is SaaStock Dublin and why should I go?

SaaStock Dublin is a major event for anyone involved with SaaS (Software as a Service). It’s the place where people building or buying SaaS products connect. You can meet important people, get great ideas, and make valuable connections with investors and other business leaders. It’s known for helping people make real business deals.

What kind of topics does Web Summit Lisbon cover?

Web Summit in Lisbon is one of the biggest tech events anywhere. It’s huge and covers almost everything related to technology. It’s a great place to see the global tech world in action and meet lots of different people.

Why is CES 2026 important for the tech industry?

CES is a massive show in Las Vegas where companies reveal new gadgets and technology. It’s a place to see what’s new and upcoming in consumer electronics and technology for the whole year. Many big announcements happen here.

What can I expect from Gartner IT Symposium/Xpo?

This is a huge conference from Gartner, mainly for CIOs and top IT bosses. They talk about everything important in IT, like technology, business plans, and how to lead teams. It’s where leaders figure out what’s next for technology.

How does CloudFest help people in the cloud business?

CloudFest is the top event for anything related to cloud technology. It’s less about just talking and more about learning how to actually build and manage cloud systems. It’s perfect for people who work with cloud infrastructure and want to make partnerships.

What’s the main benefit of attending Viva Technology Paris?

Viva Technology in Paris is a huge event focused on new ideas and startups in Europe. It brings together young companies, investors, and big businesses. If you want to see what’s happening in European tech and find new business chances, this is the place to be.