The business landscape is transforming at an unprecedented rate, leaving organizations with a critical choice: wait for the storm to pass, or forge directly through it. Success requires an ecosystem of bold leaders and brave change-makers willing to navigate the unknown together. Finding those visionaries can be challenging, but bringing them into one room creates a catalyst for real impact.
That is exactly why weXelerate is thrilled to announce the official launch of Future Forward 2026. Scheduled for Thursday, November 26, 2026, Austria’s most impactful innovation conference returns for its fourth edition. This full-day event connects startups, corporate executives, investors, and public sector leaders to share knowledge and build meaningful connections.
By attending, you will gain unparalleled access to the minds shaping tomorrow’s technology. You will hear from international experts, discover high-growth investment opportunities, and elevate your network. Read on to discover what is planned for this year, and learn how you can secure your Super Early Bird ticket before the May 28 deadline.
What to Expect at Future Forward 2026
We designed Future Forward to break down silos between sectors. The event brings together a dynamic mix of enablers, established companies, and ambitious startups. For our 2026 edition, we are scaling up our operations to deliver our most comprehensive program yet.
A Massive Gathering of Innovators
Our previous edition broke records with 899 attendees from 42 nations. This year, we are preparing to welcome over 1,000 industry leaders, founders, and investors. The audience features a carefully curated split between startups and established companies, creating the perfect environment for B2B networking. Almost 40% of our attendees hold top-tier decision-making titles, meaning you will interact directly with CEOs, founders, and board members who have the power to greenlight new initiatives.
Expert Speakers and Deep Dive Tracks
We focus heavily on action over theory. To provide practical insights alongside bold inspiration, Future Forward 2026 will host over 50 international speakers across multiple stages. You can expect high-energy keynote addresses on our Inspiration Stage, followed by three parallel Deep Dive Tracks. These hands-on workshop sessions change annually to reflect the most pressing technological advancements, giving you practical tools to implement immediately within your organization.
The Startup Pitching Arena
Innovation requires capital, and investors require high-quality deal flow. We bridge this gap through our dedicated Startup Pitching Arena. Throughout the day, 40 international startups will deliver live pitches, presenting 40 unique investment opportunities. Beyond the stage, you can explore the Innovation Expo, featuring over 35 startup booths where you can experience breakthrough technologies firsthand.
AI-Powered Matchmaking
We believe that face-to-face connection remains the strongest currency in business. To maximize your time, we use a sophisticated, AI-powered matchmaking platform via the b2match app. Last year, our attendees completed 215 curated 1:1 meetings, resulting in more than 53 hours of highly focused networking. You can pre-book your meetings weeks in advance, ensuring your schedule is packed with the exact corporate partners, investors, or innovators you need to meet.
The Venue: Inside the weXelerate Innovation Hub
Since 2017, weXelerate has transformed Vienna’s Praterstraße 1 into Austria’s premier innovation ecosystem. Housed inside the stunning Design Tower by Jean Nouvel, the weXelerate Innovation Hub spans nearly 10,000 square meters of collaborative space.
This architectural landmark provides the perfect backdrop for Future Forward 2026. Corporates meet startups, academia collaborates with the public sector, and breakthrough ideas take root daily. The venue sits in the heart of Vienna, offering excellent public transport connections and easy airport access for our international delegates.
Lock In Your Super Early Bird Ticket
Attending Future Forward 2026 gives you a distinct competitive advantage. You will leave with actionable strategies, a stronger professional network, and direct exposure to the technologies disrupting your industry.
Right now, we are offering an exclusive Super Early Bird pricing tier for our Full-Day Tickets. For just €99, you gain comprehensive access to the Main Stage, all Workshop Tracks, the Innovation Expo, the 1:1 Matchmaking platform, and the evening Afterparty. This represents a massive 67% saving compared to our standard ticket price of €299.
This heavily discounted rate is only available until May 28, 2026. After that date, prices will increase as we move into our standard Early Bird phases.
We also offer specialized tickets to suit your specific goals. If you are an early-stage company looking to maximize your visibility, the Founder Ticket includes an optional slot at the Startup Pitching Arena. For organizations looking to elevate their brand, we offer custom sponsorship packages that provide extensive national and international exposure.
Frequently Asked Questions About Future Forward 2026
Who should attend this conference?
Future Forward is designed for corporate executives, startup founders, investors, innovation managers, and academics. If you are involved in driving technological change, scaling a business, or funding new ventures, this event will provide immense value.
How does the 1:1 matchmaking work?
All ticket holders gain access to our event platform, b2match. You can set up your profile, browse the attendee list, and send meeting requests before the conference begins. On the day of the event, you will have a clear schedule of curated meetings taking place in our designated networking zones.
What are the opportunities for startups?
Startups form a core pillar of our ecosystem. If your business is under 2 years old and focused on Innovation, you can purchase a Founder Ticket or you can apply to pitch in our dedicated arena, book a booth in our Innovation Expo to showcase your product to 1,000+ attendees, or simply use the matchmaking tool to secure private meetings with venture capitalists.
Are there opportunities to volunteer?
Absolutely! We welcome students and young professionals who want to experience a high-energy conference environment. Volunteering provides hands-on experience and a fantastic opportunity to build your network early in your career.
Secure Your Spot and Shape the Future
Innovation is not a solitary pursuit. It requires a community of forward-thinkers who are ready to challenge the status quo and embrace new possibilities. Future Forward 2026 provides the exact platform you need to meet those individuals and turn ambitious ideas into concrete realities.
Do not miss your chance to be part of Austria’s most vibrant innovation event. Head over to our official website to claim your €99 Super Early Bird ticket before the May 28 deadline. Join us at weXelerate this November, and let’s navigate the unknown together.
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