Date: 30 September – 1 October 2026
Location: Galway, Ireland
Type: Policy-Focused Conference
Website: europeanbigdatavalueforum.eu
What Is the European Big Data Value Forum?
The European Big Data Value Forum (EBDVF) is a premier policy-focused conference that serves as a critical nexus for shaping the data-driven future of the European Union. Organized with the support of the European Commission and key industry associations, the forum is more than a technical gathering; it is a strategic dialogue where the foundational policies for Europe’s digital economy are debated and refined. The 2026 edition in Galway will continue this tradition, focusing on the intersection of data infrastructure, public investment, and the long-term strategic direction of artificial intelligence.
This event is significant because it directly influences the regulatory and investment landscape in which European AI and data innovation operate. By bringing together the architects of policy with the builders of technology, the European Big Data Value Forum 2026 aims to align ambitious technological goals with practical governance and sustainable funding models. It is where high-level strategy, as formulated by the European Commission, meets the on-the-ground realities presented by industry and research stakeholders, ensuring a cohesive approach to Europe’s digital sovereignty and competitiveness.
Why It Matters for AI Professionals
For AI professionals, the European Big Data Value Forum offers a unique vantage point into the forces that will define their operational environment for years to come. Understanding upcoming regulatory frameworks, public funding priorities, and infrastructure roadmaps is crucial for strategic planning, whether in a corporate, research, or entrepreneurial context. Attendance provides foresight into compliance requirements, partnership opportunities with publicly funded initiatives, and the evolving standards for data sharing and AI ethics within the EU single market.
Beyond policy, the forum is an unparalleled networking opportunity to connect with senior representatives from the European Commission, industry groups, and leading research institutions. These connections can be instrumental in shaping projects, influencing policy feedback loops, and identifying collaborative ventures that align with Europe’s strategic digital objectives. The insights gained at the 2026 event will be essential for any professional navigating the complex, policy-rich landscape of European AI development.
What to Expect
The agenda for the European Big Data Value Forum 2026 will be centered on its core themes of data infrastructure, public investment, and the strategic direction of AI in the EU. Discussions will likely delve into the implementation of major EU initiatives, the evolution of data spaces, and the balance between innovation and regulation. Participants can expect a mix of keynote presentations, high-level panel discussions, and focused workshops designed to translate policy into actionable insight.
While the full speaker list is yet to be announced, the participant profile confirms the event’s high-level nature. Attendees will include:
- Representatives from the European Commission and other EU bodies.
- Senior figures from industry groups and major corporate stakeholders.
- Leaders from academic and research institutions across Europe.
- Representatives from European associations and digital innovation hubs.
The dialogue at EBDVF 2026 will be foundational, setting the tone for the next phase of Europe’s digital agenda.
Who Should Attend
The European Big Data Value Forum 2026 is designed for professionals whose work is impacted by or contributes to the European data and AI policy ecosystem. This includes:
- Policy & Strategy Executives: C-suite leaders and heads of strategy in tech companies who need to anticipate regulatory shifts.
- Government & Public Affairs Specialists: Professionals engaged in regulatory compliance and public funding.
- Research Leads & Academics: Principal investigators and directors from institutions involved in EU-funded data and AI projects.
- Association & Ecosystem Managers: Individuals representing industry consortia or digital innovation networks.
- Senior Developers & Architects: Those involved in building large-scale data infrastructures who require insight into future standards and requirements.
The forum is particularly valuable for those in roles that bridge technology implementation and strategic governance.
How to Register
Registration for the European Big Data Value Forum 2026 will be managed through the official event website. Interested participants should visit https://www.europeanbigdatavalueforum.eu/ for the most current information. As a policy-focused event with participation from EU institutions, pricing structures can vary (e.g., standard industry rates, discounted rates for academia, or commission-invited participants). All details regarding registration fees, early-bird deadlines, and the official registration portal will be published on the site. It is recommended to monitor the website for announcements as the 2026 European Big Data Value Forum in Galway approaches.
