Imagine
the
Future
Future Tech
Future Tech launched in 2025 to create a space where the industry could explore the future — bringing together innovation, technology, talent and new ideas in one connected experience.
In 2026, Future Tech is where the future of media and entertainment moves from concept to real-world application.
Located in Hall 14, it brings together global media organisations, technology leaders, start-ups, creators, researchers and future talent to explore the technologies, workflows and ideas shaping what comes next.
With the new Future Tech Ignite Start Up Zone and Stage, the Future Tech Stage, Braindate Lounge and a growing programme focused on creators and next-gen talent, Future Tech has become a dynamic destination for discovery, collaboration and industry advancement at IBC2026.
Future Tech Ignite
Delivered with EIT Culture & Creativity as Innovation Partner, and AWS as Headline Sponsor, Future Tech Ignite brings together emerging companies, investors, creators, students and tech leaders to explore the next generation of media technology. Across the Ignite Start-Up Zone and Ignite Stage, visitors can discover breakthrough companies, hear future-focused ideas and connect with the people developing what comes next.
IBC Accelerator Zone
The IBC Accelerator Media Innovation Programme brings together organisations to tackle real challenges and demonstrate innovation in action. Visitors can explore collaborative projects and meet the teams behind them. Supported by EIT Culture & Creativity as Innovation Partner, and Google as Headline Sponsor, with HP/ AMD & Shure as Associate Sponsors.
Future Tech Stage
The Future Tech Stage, sponsored by Microsoft hosts talks, panels and sessions exploring the technologies, talent and trends shaping the future of media and entertainment.
It should act as the main content destination within Future Tech, connecting the exhibition, Ignite, Accelerators and wider innovation themes.
More information coming soon.
Braindate Lounge
Available through the IBC Exchange pass, Braindate helps visitors join one-to-one and small-group conversations around the topics that matter most to them.
It gives attendees a more structured way to meet peers, share knowledge and make useful connections during IBC.
Future Tech Networking Hub
A central space for meetings, informal networking and conversations throughout the show.
More information coming soon.
Future Tech Ignite
Future Tech Ignite is the home of start-ups, emerging talent, future skills and entrepreneurial thinking at IBC2026.
Delivered with EIT Culture & Creativity as Innovation Partner, Future Tech Ignite brings together students, creators, technologists, start-ups, investors, educators and industry leaders to explore how new ideas can become real opportunities for the media and entertainment industry.
Across the four days of the show, the Future Tech Ignite Stage will host talks, panels, showcases and pitch sessions covering the major forces changing the industry, including artificial intelligence, the creator economy, sustainability, cybersecurity, entrepreneurship, education and future skills.
Future Tech Exhibition
Explore the technologies shaping the next era of media and entertainment.
Including Microsoft, Vionlabs, NHK, Mosys, Magycal, AudioShake, Deepdub, Avid and Orange Logic.
Future Tech brings together emerging companies, innovators and established technology leaders, showcasing breakthrough solutions and real-world applications - giving visitors direct access to the ideas, technologies and companies shaping what comes next.
