At IMEX America 2025, the tech innovation and AI track explored how artificial intelligence (AI), automation and integrated platforms are reshaping the way we design and deliver events. The focus wasn’t on the flashiest tools, but on how technology can help planners work more strategically, connect more meaningfully and create measurable value.
Here are five key takeaways:
1. Event tech is becoming experience intelligence
Technology is evolving from isolated tools to integrated systems that map the full attendee journey. As Chuck Ghoorah, Cvent, and Tanya Pinchuk, ExpoPlatform, explained, the line between event tech and marketing tech is blurring. The goal is to capture and analyze every interaction—webinars, dinners, trade shows—to demonstrate how events drive pipeline and revenue.
2. AI is here to support, not replace
AI’s strength lies in freeing up time for creativity and strategy. Ken Madden, George P Johnson Experience Marketing, described this as creating “hours freed for cool stuff.” Examples included Christopher Baron, Encore, using AI to summarize research into podcasts and Greg Oates, Matador Network, automating newsletters. AI is best used as a collaborative assistant.
3. Upskilling is essential
With AI expected to transform 86% of businesses and render 40% of current skills obsolete by 2030, as shared by Tracy Judge, Soundings, reskilling is urgent. This includes understanding data privacy, developing large language model literacy and strengthening soft skills like empathy and critical thinking.
4. The more tech we have, the more humanity matters
As technology becomes more advanced, authentic human connection becomes even more valuable. Liz Irving, Clarion Events, emphasized that tech should humanize the event experience through personalization. Even in virtual settings, tools like 3D avatars are helping reintroduce presence and warmth.
5. The future is integrated and democratized
AI agents—automated workflows that complete complex tasks—are already in use. Greg and Brad Gillespie, The METHOD Project, demonstrated how agents can write newsletters and update CRMs. Julius Solaris, Boldpush, highlighted the rise of vibe coding, where planners use no-code tools to build their own solutions.
The challenges ahead:
1. Tech anxiety is growing
The pace of change is overwhelming. AI is evolving faster than any previous technology, leaving many planners feeling left behind.
2. Tool sprawl is slowing teams down
Many teams are juggling disconnected platforms and spreadsheets. This lack of integration creates silos and inefficiencies.
3. Skills gaps and resistance to change
Despite the need for upskilling, research showed that fewer than half of event leaders are prioritizing it. Legacy thinking and internal resistance often block progress.
4. Data privacy concerns are rising
Using free AI tools can put sensitive data at risk. The solution? Use secure, enterprise-grade AI platforms and implement clear data governance.
5. Risk of dehumanization
AI can streamline communication, but overuse can lead to robotic messaging. Precious Williams, Perfect Pitch Group, and Jay Schwedelson, GURU Media Hub, stressed the importance of maintaining authenticity.
The opportunities to seize
1. Use AI as a strategic co-pilot
AI can critique and improve proposals, helping identify blind spots and refine strategy.
2. Deliver hyper-personalization at scale
Use AI to analyze attendee behavior to recommend sessions, connect people and guide them through large events.
3. Turn event data into knowledge hubs
Use AI to capture and summarize sessions in real time, creating searchable, post-event content libraries.
4. Create playful, generative experiences
Christopher Baron’s AI music generator at the Encore trainactivation at IMEX America showed how generative AI can create fun, shareable moments that enhance engagement.
5. Empower planners through no-code tools
Julius Solaris’ vibe coding concept encourages planners to build their own tools using no-code platforms, enabling faster, more tailored innovation.
The future of event tech is not about complexity—it’s about clarity, creativity and connection. By embracing AI as a partner, simplifying systems and investing in skills, planners can unlock new levels of personalization, efficiency and impact.
Back to the track. We’ll be back on the Tech innovation and AI track at IMEX Frankfurt 2026. Stay tuned.
Report created with the help of Snapsight and SparkAI.
