Leading robotics and automation event ICRA 2026 (IEEE International Conference on Robotics and Automation) transformed Vienna into a global hub of innovation, 1-5 June, attracting participants from around the world and delivering the most successful edition in the congress’s history. Held under the theme ‘Robots for All’, the event brought together researchers, technology leaders, startups, students and innovators to explore how robotics is increasingly shaping industries, cities and everyday life.
The 2026 edition surpassed previous records, registering:
- Nearly 9,000 participants, compared to 6,200 in 2025;
- 196 international exhibitors, the highest number ever recorded by the congress;
- The strongest sponsorship performance in the event’s history.
The results are the outcome of a five-year strategic journey that began in 2021, when AIM Austria, part of AIM Group International, led a successful Vienna bid to host ICRA 2026 together with the Technical University of Vienna, the Vienna Convention Bureau and VIECON. AIM served as the congress organiser and strategic partner throughout the project lifecycle, overseeing congress management, sponsorship development, exhibition planning, stakeholder engagement and attendee experience design. The growth achieved by ICRA 2026, the organisers claim, reflects the value of a long-term vision, strong international partnerships and a fully integrated event strategy.
ICRA 2026 committed to making robotics accessible beyond the scientific community and its Festival of Robots brought robotics and automation into the heart of Vienna through free exhibitions, live demonstrations and educational activities open to the public.
A highlight of the social programme was the Imperial Night, a gala evening held at the iconic Hofburg Palace and the Spanish Riding School, which brought together 4,800 participants.
Sustainability and social impact were embedded throughout the event, with initiatives focused on waste reduction, public engagement and inclusion, reflecting a shared commitment to creating long-term value for the destination and its citizens.
