Integrated Systems Europe (ISE) will bring back Innovation Park for the 2026 edition. Building on its success in 2025, the expanded initiative in Congress Square connects investors directly with game-changing startups, maximising investment opportunities. “Innovation Park is a dynamic marketplace where startups, buyers, and investors can come together to explore the future of AV and systems integration,” explains Mike Blackman, Managing Director of Integrated Systems Events. “Whether you’re looking for high-growth investment opportunities or groundbreaking solutions ready for implementation, Innovation Park is the place where ideas and opportunity meet. At ISE, we’ve always championed innovation and challenged expectations, and Innovation Park is the perfect example of how we continue to push beyond today to find tomorrow’s solutions.”
Alongside startups and first-time ISE exhibitors, Innovation Park criteria will now include companies returning after an absence of 3 years or more. To support this expansion, Innovation Park at ISE 2026 will feature 130 exhibition pods. Centrally located in Congress Square, Innovation Park will once again bring together the Pitching Stage, programmed by startup incubator Plug and Play, the revitalised Matchmaking Area designed for targeted business connections, the Investor Forum taking place on the opening day, and a full programme of startup networking events scheduled throughout the week.
Importantly, Innovation Park extends far beyond its investor-focused offerings. It remains a vital destination for AV buyers, integrators, distributors, and decision makers who are seeking market-ready solutions, emerging technologies, and innovative approaches to real-world project challenges. Following its inaugural success in 2025, the Investor Forum will once again bring together innovators and the global investment community, including venture capitalists, private equity, and corporate investors, for high-level networking, market insights, and investment opportunities. Taking place on the first day of ISE 2026, Tuesday 3 February, the Investor Forum will explore the full company lifecycle, from early-stage startups to late-stage succession planning.
Sean Wargo, Conference Chair and Principal of Apogee Insight LLC, comments, “The Investor Forum at ISE 2026 will spotlight the progressive advancements within pro AV, providing extensive insights for businesses at all stages. A wide range of panels will cover investment types, from angel to corporate and M&A collaboration, as well as industry challenges and practical advice for startups. Additional sessions will explore government funding and highlight experiences from recently funded organisations to support the entire ecosystem.” This half-day conference offers a unique platform for networking, learning, and discovering the next wave of industry opportunities.
Innovation Park is not only a launchpad for emerging companies, it is also a valuable resource for AV buyers seeking early access to the most advanced tools, platforms, and solutions entering the market. Across the week, attendees can explore ready-to-deploy technologies, meet founders and product specialists, and gain insight into the innovations shaping the industry’s future.
