Positioned as a sister programme to the long-running Event Technology Awards, the AI Edition focuses specifically on companies and teams deploying AI to improve event design, operations and outcomes. Core areas include planning, delivery, personalisation, measurement and overall performance across in-person, hybrid and digital formats.
The 2026 AI Edition features 30 categories spanning attendee experience, marketing, content, sales and ROI, logistics, sustainability and innovation. Categories include Best AI for Attendee Engagement, Best AI for Event Content Creation, Best AI for Lead Capture & Qualification, and Most Innovative AI Application in Events, giving suppliers, agencies and in-house teams a broad range of opportunities to showcase their work.
Event Technology Awards co-founder Adam Parry said the new edition is a response to the pace of change in the sector and the need for focused recognition.
“AI is reshaping every part of the event lifecycle. The AI Edition gives the industry a focused space to highlight the work being done and the results being achieved. This isn’t about hype – it’s about recognising the practical, real-world applications that are pushing the industry forward.”
The AI Edition will be powered by event tech platform Evessio, which has also been confirmed as headline sponsor.
Evessio CEO Gary Clement said: “We’re proud to support the launch of the AI Edition. There is huge demand for visibility around AI innovation, and these awards will set a new benchmark for excellence in the space.”
A full judging panel is already in place, comprising senior figures from global brands, technology companies, agencies and event organisers. For event technology providers and AI-led startups, the programme offers an international platform to demonstrate case studies, outcomes and innovations to both buyers and peers.
Key dates for the 2026 AI Edition are: entries open on 1 December 2025, the early bird deadline on 31 January 2026, the final entry deadline on 31 March 2026, the shortlist announcement on 15 April 2026, and the winners’ announcement in June 2026.
With AI now embedded across registration, audience engagement, matchmaking, content generation, analytics and sustainability optimisation, the new AI Edition aims to provide a dedicated benchmark for best practice and innovation in this fast-evolving area of event technology.