Tech Industry Alliance has announced the official launch of TechFest 2026, the South West’s leading technology conference, bringing together technology leaders, policymakers, innovators, and industry experts for a high-impact, in-person event exploring one of the defining issues of our time: how artificial intelligence and emerging technologies are reshaping business, society and public trust.
TechFest, the flagship annual conference from Tech Industry Alliance, will take place at the Rochestown Park Hotel, Cork, from 09:00 on Thursday, 21 May 2026. This year’s theme, “AI, Technology & the Future: Innovation, Intelligence and Human Impact,” will explore both the opportunities and responsibilities that accompany rapid advances in artificial intelligence.
Tickets for the conference are now available at: https://techindustryalliance.ie/tech-industry-alliance-techfest-2026/.
The dynamic one-day conference will feature high-profile keynote speakers, expert panel discussions, and real-world industry case studies. The programme is designed to provide both strategic insight and practical application, examining not only the transformative potential of AI, but also the governance, regulatory and ethical frameworks required to scale it responsibly.
TechFest 2026 will welcome Jamie Bartlett, a UK-based author, researcher, and broadcaster specialising in the societal impact of emerging technologies, online culture and digital power. He is the author of several acclaimed books, including the bestselling The Dark Net, Radicals, The People Vs Tech and The Missing Cryptoqueen, with his work translated into 15 languages.
Bartlett founded the Centre for the Analysis of Social Media at the think tank Demos and is a regular commentator across national and international media. His expertise spans cybersecurity, crypto scams, online subcultures and the influence of technology on politics. His TED Talk, How the Mysterious Dark Net Is Going Mainstream, has been viewed more than five million times.
Guiding attendees through the day will be Jonathan McCrea, acclaimed science communicator and AI master trainer. Known for making complex technology accessible and engaging, Jonathan will help frame discussions around the opportunities and challenges of AI adoption, ensuring an insightful and thought-provoking experience for attendees.
Matthew Camilleri, Chairperson of Tech Industry Alliance, said:
“We are delighted to announce TechFest 2026. From the societal risks associated with AI, cybersecurity threats, and criminal misuse, to regulation, innovation enablement and enterprise adoption, this year’s conference will offer a balanced and forward-looking agenda. TechFest continues to bring together the voices shaping the future of technology in Ireland. This event would not be possible without the support of our sponsors, who recognise the critical importance of the technology sector to the Munster region. Following the success of last year’s conference, we look forward to building on that momentum in 2026.”
With more than 400 attendees expected, TechFest 2026 will provide a unique opportunity to network, collaborate, and share insights across the technology ecosystem. The event will feature speakers from technology companies, academia, government, law enforcement, and cybersecurity, alongside organisations already deploying AI solutions in real-world environments. The full lineup of speakers will be released in the coming weeks.
Given the high level of interest, early registration is encouraged as the event is expected to sell out.
For exhibitor and sponsorship enquiries, contact [email protected].
