Nearly 9,000 participants and 196 exhibitors mark the most successful edition in the congress’s history
ICRA 2026 has marked a major milestone for Vienna and for the entire project team, bringing together the global robotics community for an exceptional edition of the world’s leading congress on robotics and automation.
For AIM Austria, the success of ICRA 2026 is the culmination of a journey that began back in 2021, when the team led Vienna’s bid in partnership with the Technical University of Vienna, the Vienna Convention Bureau, and VIECON. Through an innovative strategy, a strong legacy and outreach programme, and close collaboration among all partners, Vienna was selected to host the 2026 edition, prevailing over competing destinations.
Built around the theme “Robots for All,” the congress brought together researchers, industry leaders, students, and innovators from across the globe. The programme featured keynote sessions, workshops, interactive panels, hands-on tutorials, technical tours, and dedicated innovation spaces. Among its standout initiatives was the Festival of Robots, which brought cutting-edge robotic technologies into the heart of Vienna, engaging the wider public through free exhibitions, demonstrations, and educational activities designed to inspire the next generation of innovators.
The numbers behind a record-breaking edition:
- Nearly 9,000 participants, up from 6,200 at the 2025 edition
- 196 international exhibitors, compared to approximately 120–130 in previous years
- More than 7,000 sqm of exhibition space, plus an additional 7,000 sqm dedicated to competitions and live demonstrations
- The strongest sponsorship performance in the event’s history
Every phase of the project — from bid strategy and event design to sponsorship and exhibition management, social programme organisation, and the operational and technological coordination of the entire congress — was shaped by close collaboration between local and international partners, ensuring a seamless experience for thousands of participants from across the globe.
Sustainability and social impact were also at the heart of the event, with dedicated waste reduction initiatives, public science engagement activities, and programmes promoting inclusion and community participation, reflecting a shared commitment to building events that leave a positive and lasting legacy for the host destination.
