Predict Program
The Predict program is focused on supporting the viability and resiliency of the B2B exhibitions industry through insights on market and economic trends presented by experts outside of the industry as well as industry peers, deep dive discussions and new perspectives to shift the conversation from what worked in the past to what is needed for future success.
The 2026 conference was designed to provide insights on trends now, and into the future. As its name implies, Predict will help your organization to be future focused by bringing in experts from outside the exhibitions industry to provide big picture insights into the economic, social, political and digital trends occurring in the global marketplace. Earn 5.75 CE Clock Hours
Thursday, 10 September 2026
10:30 AM – 12:00 PM
11:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Predict Registration & Check-In
1:00 PM – 1:15 PM
Official Welcome
Marsha Flanagan, M.Ed., CEM, President & CEO, IAEE and Brian Pagel, 2026 Chairperson of the Board, Executive Vice President, Emerald X
1:15 PM – 1:45 PM
The Global Economic Outlook & Impact on Exhibitions
Join us for a comprehensive macroeconomic overview of the U.S. and international landscape, highlighting key trends such as inflation dynamics, geopolitical shifts, monetary policies, and global trade developments. This session will explore how these broad economic forces ripple through the exhibitions industry, influencing business confidence, investment flows, and market demand. Gain a clearer understanding of the external economic environment shaping strategic decision-making and future-proofing their organizations in an interconnected global economy.
1:45 PM – 2:15 PM
The Business of Exhibitions: Economic Analysis Across Industry Segments
Focusing exclusively on the exhibitions industry, this session provides you a first-hand examination the economic forces directly impacting event organizers, venues, and service providers and looks at the latest research from the CEIR Index. Topics include inflation-driven cost pressures, supply chain disruptions. Through targeted data analysis and industry research, attendees will empower leaders to make informed decisions that optimize operational efficiency and profitability amid ongoing economic pressures unique to the sector.
2:15 PM – 3:00 PM
Extended Networking Break
3:00 PM – 3:30 PM
Competitive Edge: How CEIR Research Transforms Tradeshow Strategy and Benchmarking
In a rapidly evolving events landscape, understanding your tradeshow’s performance relative to the industry is critical for sustainable growth and market leadership. This session provides a brief overview of the latest research and benchmarking tools offered by the Center for Exhibition Industry Research (CEIR). Learn to leverage comprehensive data to evaluate your events and identify actionable insights that drive strategic decision-making. Explore the newest CEIR reports and discover practical approaches to harness industry intelligence for forecasting trends and enhancing overall performance. Equip your organization with data-driven tools to confidently navigate the future and remain ahead in a competitive marketplace.
3:30 PM – 4:15 PM
The New Global Order: Geopolitical Trends and Their Impact on Exhibitions
In this session, industry leaders will receive an in-depth analysis of the current geopolitical landscape — including trade tensions, regulatory developments, and geopolitical hotspots — and their direct impact on the exhibitions sector. Participants will learn how to identify the critical geopolitical trends shaping global business environments. The session will provide practical tools and frameworks for devising risk mitigation strategies and adapting exhibition operations to successfully navigate international uncertainties.
4:15 PM – 5:00 PM
Wrap Up & Preview of Day 1
5:00 PM – 6:15 PM
Networking Reception
Friday, 11 September 2026
7:30 AM – 8:30 AM
Networking Breakfast
8:30 AM – 8:40 AM
Welcome Back – Day 2
8:40 AM – 9:30 AM
Marketing Innovation in the Age of Disruption: Strategies for Growth and Relevance
In this world defined by rapid disruption and evolving consumer expectations, how can leadership rethink marketing to drive growth, strengthen brand equity, and expand outreach? This high-level strategic session invites C-suite executives to explore bold, innovative approaches to marketing in the exhibition industry. Through shared insights on digital transformation, content strategy, and brand relevance, we will challenge conventional thinking and inspire creativity that aligns with today’s dynamic market forces. Join us to discover how innovation and strategic foresight can position your company and shows for lasting success in a constantly changing landscape..
9:30 AM – 10:00 AM
Quick Break
10:00 AM – 11:00 AM
Brainwave Exchange
The exhibitions and events industry is being reshaped by global economic shifts, evolving attendee expectations, and rapid advances in technology. This facilitated session invites participants into an open conversation, where the content will emerge directly from the experiences, challenges, and perspectives of the attendees rather than a formal presentation. Together, we will explore and find solutions.
11:00 AM – 11:45 AM
The Innovation Shift: New Leadership Paradigms for Exhibitions Growth
In an era defined by rapid change and evolving customer expectations, what does true innovation look like for the exhibitions industry? This panel brings together strategic thought leaders who will challenge conventional thinking, exploring key areas where innovation is most critical. Join us as we dissect the barriers to transformation, explore leadership mindsets that foster breakthrough innovations, and debate how to make smarter, bolder decisions in a complex market landscape. Prepare to rethink growth, redefine innovation, and leave equipped with new perspectives to lead your organization confidently through change.
11:45 AM – 12:15 PM
Through the Looking Glass: Predictions for the Future
Join us for an engaging and thought-provoking closing keynote featuring esteemed presenter, Dr. Sam Potolicchio. Dr. Potolicchio will delve into a wide range of topics, encompassing political, social, and environmental happenings around the world. Through his discussions, he will challenge you to think critically and strategically about the future, providing a deeper understanding of potential trends and developments that may shape our world.
He’ll share his reflections on the predictions he made in the previous year, highlighting what came true and what didn’t.
Presenter: Sam Potolicchio, Ph.D., President, Preparing Global Leaders Forum and Director Of Leadership Initiatives, Center for Intercultural Education and Development, Georgetown University
12:15 PM – 12:30 PM
Closing Remarks and Predict Ends
12:30 PM – 1:00 PM
Grab a Lunch & Go or Continue the Conversations with Peers Over Lunch
