SPEAKER APPLICATION

The Meetings Show 2026 is curating an education programme packed with practical tools, future-focused ideas, and inspiration to help event professionals thrive in a fast-changing world. And that's where YOU come in!

We’re looking for the thinkers, doers, and leaders shaping the next chapter of meetings and events. So if you’ve got knowledge, insights, or success stories that can help others adapt, grow, and succeed, then we want to hear from you...

WHAT WE'RE LOOKING FOR READ THE PRESS RELEASE

Our hosted buyers and visitors are navigating one of the most transformative periods the meetings and events industry has ever seen, and they’ve told us exactly what their biggest challenges are:

Budgets are tighter than ever, with teams expected to deliver more creativity, innovation, and results with fewer resources.
AI and emerging technologies are evolving rapidly, bringing both opportunity and pressure to understand what really works.
Wellbeing and balance are increasingly vital for both event professionals managing high-pressure roles and the delegates they serve.
Proving the value of meetings and events remains a top priority, showing measurable ROI, business impact, and purpose.

We want to ensure that our sessions tackle these issues head-on, so you'll need to be an expert at delivering practical insights, offering future-focused ideas, and providing tools attendees can apply immediately to strengthen their businesses and careers.

We want sessions that:

Show how to deliver exceptional results on reduced budgets
Demystify AI, automation, and emerging technologies for real-world use
Share proven strategies for embedding wellbeing into events, workplaces, and leadership
Provide tangible ways to measure, communicate, and elevate the value of meetings and events
Build professional skills that help event professionals adapt, grow, and lead confidently

We’re especially interested in speakers and content providers who bring:

Real-world experience and measurable outcomes, not just theory
A reputation for innovation, creativity, and credibility
A collaborative, audience-first approach: engaging, interactive, and insight-driven
Fresh perspectives from both inside and outside the events industry

The 2026 education programme is built around what matters most to today’s event professionals: delivering exceptional results under pressure, embracing technology with confidence, prioritising wellbeing, and proving the lasting value of meetings and events.

Budgets are tighter. Expectations are higher. Technology is evolving fast. This year’s themes focus on practical strategies, proven results, and professional growth to help you and your organisation adapt, deliver, and lead with purpose.

The Future of Event Marketing: Measurable Impact on Every Budget
Theme: Event Marketing
Event marketing is evolving, with every spend needing to show clear value. Share creative yet cost-effective strategies that enhance engagement and demonstrate measurable ROI. From authentic storytelling and content communities to data-led measurement, how are you proving the business impact of your campaigns?

Sustainability That Delivers: Case Studies and ROI That Matter
Theme: Sustainability & Legacy
Sustainability is no longer a nice-to-have, it’s a business necessity. We’re looking for real-world examples that show measurable results and stakeholder value. From supply chain collaboration and waste reduction to data-driven sustainability frameworks, demonstrate how responsibility and return can go hand in hand.

Event & Experience Design: Creating Impactful Moments That Matter
Theme: Event & Experience Design
Memorable experiences drive attendance, loyalty, and business results, but with tighter budgets, creativity must be strategic. Our attendees want to explore how to design emotionally resonant, purposeful moments that leave a lasting impression. Share techniques in storytelling, environment design, and audience engagement that turn participation into impact.

Event Technology Reimagined: Tools That Work in the Real World
Theme: Event & Engagement Technology
Technology continues to reshape the way we plan and deliver events, but understanding what really works is key. Share tools, tactics, and success stories that enhance efficiency, improve engagement, and support better decision-making without escalating costs.

AI & Automation: From Hype to Hands-On Application
Theme: AI & Automation
AI and automation are changing the landscape, but where’s the real value? Help demystify emerging technologies by sharing practical examples of how they streamline workflows, improve attendee experience, and support measurable business outcomes.

Wellbeing That Works: From Events to Organisations
Theme: Wellbeing
Wellbeing isn’t just an event trend, it’s an organisational imperative. Explore practical approaches for embedding wellbeing across teams, leadership, and event experiences. From reducing burnout and promoting balance to creating healthier workplace cultures, share strategies that drive sustained performance and creativity.

Equality, Diversity & Inclusion: Building Belonging Through Behaviour
Theme: EDI
True inclusion starts with culture. We’re looking for examples that show how inclusive behaviours within organisations translate into more representative, accessible, and engaging events. Explore diversity in all its forms, including neurodiversity, accessibility, and cultural inclusion and show how behavioural change creates real impact.

Leadership & Professional Growth: Skills for a Changing Industry
Theme: Leadership & Professional Development
Leadership today requires agility, empathy, and confidence under pressure. These sessions focus on building the professional skills that help current and emerging leaders adapt, grow, and lead effectively. From strategic communication to decision-making, resilience, and creative problem-solving, help our community strengthen the skills that drive success.

Speaking puts you in front of thousands of event professionals, industry buyers, and decision-makers who are shaping the future of our industry. You’ll inspire peers, build your profile, and connect with others who are passionate about creating extraordinary events.

Need more convincing? Here are 10 powerful reasons to take to the stage...

SPEAKER BENEFITS