IBTM World has announced the first details of its 2026 conference programme, which runs from 17–19 November at Fira Barcelona.
The headline addition is the Skills Exchange, a new workshop format built around participation rather than presentation. Sessions run as Lunch & Learn, Brain & Brew and Sips & Skills formats, combining small-group learning with networking.
Among them is Designing Belonging, a Lunch & Learn led by Naomi Clare, CEO and founder of StoryCraft Lab and engagement strategy lecturer at NYU, with Betsy Rives, workplace experience strategist at Google. The session looks at how organisers can make connection between attendees a deliberate design outcome rather than a happy accident.
A second workshop, Structuring Creative Thinking for Better Events, is led by Ravid Kuperberg, partner and trainer at Mindscapes, and draws on techniques behind campaign work that has won 53 Cannes Lions awards.
Also new is Shift Happens, an interactive session run by former military leader Ronnie Robson and defence specialist Libby Vallance-Bull, co-founder and director of Black & White Consulting, using real-world scenarios and group exercises to build adaptability under pressure. Careering founder Lauren Spearman closes the programme on the final day with a workshop on personal brand and career development.
On the Main Stage, author Will Storr opens the Exceptional Experiences programme on day two with “The Storytelling Brain: what neuroscience tells us about creating experiences that stick”. Delivered in conversation with James Kirkham, founder of ICONIC and Podcast StoryCo, the session examines why some event experiences are remembered and others are not.
The wider programme includes Future Stage sessions on technology and destination innovation, Ignite start-up showcases, and AI for Events – Demo Day LIVE, a series of live demonstrations delivered in partnership with Boldpush.
Lucy Dyer, conference manager at IBTM World, said: “The Skills Exchange is designed to foster community and collaboration, ensuring everyone feels welcome to create a relaxed and supportive learning environment.”
She added: “Our role is to help event professionals navigate change with confidence, combining inspiring ideas, practical learning and meaningful connections that create lasting value long after the event.”
Registration is open on the IBTM World website.
