Best Robotics and Automation Events in 2026

Robotics and automation events are where innovation meets industry, bringing together engineers, researchers, investors, and tech enthusiasts to explore the future of intelligent machines. In 2026, the landscape of robotics conferences and automation trade shows is more dynamic than ever, with artificial intelligence, collaborative robots, and autonomous systems transforming every sector from manufacturing to healthcare.

Whether you’re a robotics engineer seeking the latest technical breakthroughs, a business leader exploring automation solutions, or an investor looking for the next big opportunity, attending the right robotics events can accelerate your knowledge and expand your network. These gatherings showcase cutting-edge technologies, from humanoid robots and drone swarms to industrial cobots and surgical automation systems.

The 2026 robotics calendar is packed with must-attend conferences spanning continents. Major events like ICRA, Automate, and RoboBusiness will draw tens of thousands of attendees, while specialized summits focus on specific applications like warehouse automation, agricultural robotics, and medical devices. With robotics investment reaching record levels and automation adoption accelerating across industries, 2026’s event lineup offers unprecedented opportunities to witness live demonstrations, participate in workshops, and connect with pioneers shaping the automated future.

This comprehensive guide covers the best robotics and automation events in 2026, providing details on dates, locations, focus areas, and what makes each event essential for professionals in the field.

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Why Attend Robotics and Automation Events in 2026?

Before diving into specific robotics events, let’s explore why these gatherings matter more than ever.

Networking with Industry Leaders

Robotics conferences bring together the brightest minds in automation. You’ll meet:

• Robotics researchers are publishing groundbreaking papers
• Startup founders developing innovative solutions
• Enterprise decision-makers implementing automation
• Venture capitalists are funding robotics companies
• Component manufacturers and system integrators

These connections often lead to collaborations, partnerships, job opportunities, and business deals that wouldn’t happen otherwise.

Hands-On Technology Demonstrations

Reading about robotics technology is one thing, but seeing it in action changes everything. Events feature:

• Live robot demonstrations on exhibition floors
• Interactive product showcases
• Pilot programs and beta technology previews
• Side-by-side comparisons of competing solutions
• Opportunities to test equipment yourself

These hands-on experiences help you understand practical capabilities, limitations, and integration requirements better than any specification sheet.

Educational Sessions and Workshops

Automation events pack valuable learning into concentrated timeframes:

• Keynote presentations from visionaries
• Technical sessions covering implementation strategies
• Workshops teaching specific skills
• Panel discussions addressing industry challenges
• Certification programs and training opportunities

Whether you’re learning about AI integration, safety standards, or ROI calculation, event education accelerates your expertise.

Market Intelligence and Competitive Analysis

Attending robotics trade shows provides invaluable market insights:

• Emerging trends across application areas
• Competitive landscape assessment
• Pricing and positioning strategies
• Customer pain points and requirements
• Technology adoption rates by industry

This intelligence informs strategic planning, whether you’re developing products, implementing solutions, or investing in robotics companies.

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Top International Robotics and Automation Events in 2026

Here are the must-attend robotics and automation events with global reach and influence.

ICRA 2026: IEEE International Conference on Robotics and Automation

Location: Atlanta, Georgia, USA
Dates: May 19-23, 2026
Expected Attendance: 4,000+ researchers and engineers

ICRA is the premier academic robotics conference, organized by the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE). This event represents the cutting edge of robotics research, featuring peer-reviewed papers on topics like manipulation, navigation, human-robot interaction, and soft robotics.

Why attend ICRA 2026:

• Groundbreaking research presentations from top universities
• Robot competitions, including manipulation challenges
• Workshops on specialized robotics topics
• Industry exhibition showcasing research-to-product transitions
• Networking with the global robotics research community

ICRA attracts academics, PhD students, and R&D professionals from leading robotics labs worldwide. If you’re interested in the fundamental science advancing robotics technology, ICRA is unmissable.

Automate 2026

Location: Detroit, Michigan, USA
Dates: May 11-14, 2026
Expected Attendance: 25,000+ automation professionals

Automate is North America’s largest automation trade show, organized by the Association for Advancing Automation (A3). This massive event covers industrial automation, collaborative robots, machine vision, motion control, and AI integration.

What makes Automate essential:

• Over 600 exhibitors showcasing automation solutions
• Live demonstrations across 300,000+ square feet
• Conference sessions on implementation strategies
• Vertical-specific tracks (automotive, food, logistics, electronics)
• Start-Up competition featuring innovative robotics companies

Automate caters to manufacturing engineers, plant managers, system integrators, and automation end-users. The event provides comprehensive exposure to available automation technologies and proven deployment strategies. According to the Association for Advancing Automation, Automate has driven billions in automation investments through connections made at the show.

IROS 2026: IEEE/RSJ International Conference on Intelligent Robots and Systems

Location: Daegu, South Korea
Dates: October 12-16, 2026
Expected Attendance: 3,500+ participants

IROS is IEEE’s other flagship robotics conference, complementing ICRA with a focus on intelligent systems and practical applications. The event emphasizes the intersection of robotics, AI, and real-world deployment.

IROS 2026 highlights:

• Technical sessions on autonomous systems
• Demonstrations of service and social robots
• Workshops on robot learning and perception
• Industrial forum connecting research with applications
• Robot competitions and exhibitions

IROS attracts a global mix of researchers and practitioners working on intelligent robotic systems. The 2026 Korean location offers unique insights into Asia’s thriving robotics ecosystem.

Hannover Messe 2026

Location: Hannover, Germany
Dates: April 20-24, 2026
Expected Attendance: 200,000+ visitors

Hannover Messe is the world’s largest industrial trade fair, with massive sections dedicated to industrial automation and robotics. While broader than pure robotics, the automation technologies, Industry 4.0 solutions, and smart factory demonstrations make this essential for anyone in industrial robotics and automation.

Key features:

• 6,500+ exhibitors from 70+ countries
• Dedicated robotics and automation pavilions
• Smart factory demonstrations
• Conference tracks on digital transformation
• Country-specific showcases highlighting national robotics industries

Hannover Messe attracts manufacturing executives, industrial engineers, and technology vendors. The scale and international representation provide an unparalleled market overview.

RoboBusiness 2026

Location: San Jose, California, USA
Dates: September 22-24, 2026
Expected Attendance: 2,500+ business leaders

RoboBusiness focuses on the commercial side of robotics, bringing together executives, investors, and entrepreneurs driving robotics industry growth. Unlike technical conferences, RoboBusiness emphasizes business strategy, market opportunities, and investment trends.

Why RoboBusiness matters:

• CEO-level presentations from leading robotics companies
• Venture capital panel discussions
• Market analysis and forecasts
• Startup pitch competitions
• Strategic partnership opportunities

Attend RoboBusiness if you’re focused on robotics business development, fundraising, market entry strategies, or M&A activities. The event excels at connecting dots between technology capabilities and market opportunities.

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Regional Robotics and Automation Events Worth Attending

Beyond global mega-events, regional automation conferences offer focused networking and specialized content.

European Robotics Forum 2026

Location: Toulouse, France
Dates: March 10-13, 2026
Expected Attendance: 1,000+ European robotics professionals

The European Robotics Forum is organized by euRobotics, bringing together the European robotics community for strategic discussions, technical workshops, and networking.

Event highlights:

• Policy discussions on robotics regulation in Europe
• Industrial workshops on specific sectors
• Academic presentations from European research projects
• Startup showcase featuring European robotics companies
• Networking events connecting researchers with industry

This event is essential for anyone working within the European robotics ecosystem or seeking European partners and customers.

China International Robot Show (CIROS) 2026

Location: Shanghai, China
Dates: July 8-11, 2026
Expected Attendance: 80,000+ visitors

CIROS showcases Asia’s booming robotics market, particularly China’s massive industrial and service robotics sectors. The show features Chinese and international exhibitors targeting Asian markets.

What to expect:

• 500+ exhibitors, including Chinese robotics giants
• Industrial robot demonstrations for manufacturing
• Service robot showcases for hospitality and retail
• Component suppliers and system integrators
• Conference sessions on Chinese market trends

CIROS provides essential insights into the world’s largest robotics market and opportunities for international companies seeking Asian partnerships.

RobotWorld Korea 2026

Location: Seoul, South Korea
Dates: October 21-24, 2026
Expected Attendance: 120,000+ visitors

RobotWorld is Korea’s premier robotics exhibition, showcasing South Korea’s advanced robotics capabilities in manufacturing, service, and consumer applications.

Key attractions:

• Korean robotics manufacturers like Hyundai Robotics and Doosan Robotics
• Service robot demonstrations for elderly care and hospitality
• Conference sessions on collaborative robotics
• Robot competitions and entertainment showcases
• Innovation awards recognizing robotics breakthroughs

South Korea leads in robot density per manufacturing worker, making RobotWorld essential for understanding automation best practices.

Robotics Summit & Expo 2026

Location: Boston, Massachusetts, USA
Dates: June 2-4, 2026
Expected Attendance: 3,000+ robotics professionals

The Robotics Summit focuses on commercial robotics applications across industries, emphasizing practical deployment, ROI, and real-world case studies.

Summit features:

• Application-focused conference tracks
• End-user presentations sharing implementation experiences
• Exhibition featuring robotics solution providers
• Technical workshops on integration challenges
• Networking events connecting suppliers with end-users

This event bridges the gap between robotics technology capabilities and business implementation, making it valuable for anyone deploying automation solutions.

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Specialized Robotics Events by Application Area

Robotics events increasingly specialize in specific application domains. Here are notable specialized conferences in 2026.

Autonomous Mobile Robots & Logistics Summit 2026

Focus: Warehouse automation, AMRs, and logistics robotics
Location: Nashville, Tennessee, USA
Dates: April 14-16, 2026

This summit addresses the exploding demand for warehouse automation and autonomous mobile robots in logistics operations.

Topics covered:

• AMR fleet management strategies
• Integration with warehouse management systems
• ROI calculations for logistics automation
• Case studies from major retailers and 3PLs
• Technology comparison: AMRs vs AGVs vs autonomous forklifts

With e-commerce driving warehouse automation adoption, this specialized event attracts logistics professionals implementing or evaluating robotic solutions.

Medical Robotics Conference 2026

Focus: Surgical robots, rehabilitation robotics, hospital automation
Location: Zurich, Switzerland
Dates: September 8-10, 2026

Medical robotics represents one of the highest-value robotics segments. This conference brings together surgeons, medical device companies, and robotics engineers.

Conference themes:

• Latest surgical robot platforms
• Clinical outcomes research
• Regulatory pathways for medical robots
• AI integration in robotic surgery
• Rehabilitation and assistive robotics

Healthcare professionals, medical device companies, and researchers attend to explore how robotics technology is transforming patient care.

Agricultural Robotics Summit 2026

Focus: Farm automation, harvesting robots, precision agriculture
Location: Fresno, California, USA
Dates: February 24-26, 2026

Agricultural robotics is rapidly growing as labor shortages and sustainability demands drive farm automation adoption.

Summit highlights:

• Autonomous tractors and field robots
• Harvesting robots for various crops
• Drones for crop monitoring and spraying
• AI-powered agricultural systems
• Economics of farm automation

Farmers, agricultural equipment manufacturers, and robotics companies focused on agriculture gather to address this sector’s unique automation challenges.

Construction Robotics Forum 2026

Focus: Construction automation, demolition robots, on-site robotics
Location: Tokyo, Japan
Dates: November 11-13, 2026

Construction is an underautomated industry with massive robotics potential. This forum explores how robotic systems are entering construction sites.

Key topics:

• Bricklaying and concrete-finishing robots
• Demolition and decommissioning automation
• Inspection drones and robots
• Autonomous construction equipment
• Safety improvements through automation

Construction companies, equipment manufacturers, and robotics developers attend to explore opportunities in this challenging but promising automation frontier.

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Investment and Startup-Focused Robotics Events

For entrepreneurs and investors, these robotics events emphasize funding, market opportunities, and startup ecosystems.

RoboCap: Robotics Investment Summit 2026

Location: New York City, New York, USA
Dates: May 6-7, 2026
Expected Attendance: 500+ investors and founders

RoboCap connects robotics startups with venture capital, bringing together the investment community focused on robotics and automation.

Event components:

• Startup pitches to investor audiences
• VC panel discussions on robotics investment trends
• Market analysis presentations
• One-on-one investor meetings
• Networking receptions

Robotics founders seeking funding and investors evaluating robotics opportunities find RoboCap’s focused format valuable for efficient capital connections.

TechCrunch Robotics at TC Sessions 2026

Location: Multiple cities throughout 2026
Dates: Various dates

TechCrunch Sessions include robotics-focused tracks featuring startup pitches, product launches, and investor discussions. While not exclusively robotics, TC Sessions highlight emerging robotics companies gaining traction.

Why attend:

• Exposure to well-funded robotics startups
• Product launch announcements
• Investor perspectives on robotics trends
• Media coverage potential for startups
• Tech ecosystem networking

TechCrunch’s events attract startup founders, early-stage investors, and media covering the robotics industry.

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Academic and Research-Focused Robotics Events

For researchers and advanced practitioners, these academic conferences showcase fundamental robotics advances.

Robotics: Science and Systems (RSS) 2026

Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
Dates: July 13-17, 2026
Expected Attendance: 1,200+ researchers

RSS is a single-track conference focusing on the algorithmic foundations of robotics, emphasizing rigorous research and innovative methodologies.

Conference characteristics:

• Highly selective paper acceptance (under 30%)
• Single-track formatensuresg everyone sees all presentations
• Emphasis on learning, control, and perception algorithms
• Workshops on emerging research directions
• Pioneer award recognizing career contributions

RSS attracts top-tier researchers working on fundamental problems in robotics technology, making it essential for those advancing the field’s scientific foundations.

International Symposium on Robotics Research (ISRR) 2026

Location: Geneva, Switzerland
Dates: September 29 – October 2, 2026
Expected Attendance: 150+ invited researchers

ISRR is an invitation-only conference bringing together the world’s leading robotics researchers for in-depth discussions of fundamental research directions.

Event format:

• Invited presentations from prominent researchers
• Breakout discussion sessions
• Future research direction debates
• Small group format enabling deep engagement
• Published proceedings documenting research directions

ISRR’s selective nature means attendees represent the absolute forefront of robotics research, discussing ideas that will shape the field for decades.

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How to Choose the Right Robotics Events to Attend

With dozens of robotics and automation events in 2026, how do you decide where to invest your time and budget?

Define Your Objectives

Start by clarifying what you want to achieve:

Learning objectives:

• Understand specific technologies (cobots, AMRs, vision systems)
• Learn implementation best practices
• Stay current on research advances
• Gain certifications or technical training

Business objectives:

• Find technology solutions for your operations
• Identify potential partners or suppliers
• Generate sales leads for your products
• Scout investment opportunities
• Recruit talent for your organization

Networking objectives:

• Connect with peers in your industry
• Build relationships with thought leaders
• Find collaborators for research projects
• Meet potential employers or employees

Different automation events serve different objectives. Academic conferences like ICRA excel for research learning, while trade shows like Automate better serve solution evaluation and vendor connections.

Consider Your Role and Industry

Your position and industry influence which events provide maximum value:

Researchers and academics: Prioritize ICRA, IROS, RSS
Manufacturing engineers: Focus on Automate, Hannover Messe
Startup founders: Target RoboBusiness, investment summits
Healthcare professionals: Attend Medical Robotics Conference
Logistics professionals: Choose AMR & Logistics Summit
Students: Look for student programs at major conferences

Industry-specific robotics events offer deeper dives into particular applications, while broad conferences provide comprehensive technology overviews.

Evaluate Location and Timing

Practical considerations matter:

• Travel costs: International events require larger budgets
• Schedule conflicts: Check against other commitments
• Regional focus: Some events emphasize specific geographic markets
• Product launch timing: Major vendors often unveil new products at specific shows

Consider attending one major international event plus regional automation conferences for balanced exposure and cost management.

Review Past Event Content

Research previous years’ programs:

• Speaker quality: Who presented? Are they industry leaders?
• Exhibitor list: Which companies participated?
• Session topics: Did the content match your interests?
• Attendee feedback: What do reviews and social media reveal?

Event websites typically post previous agendas, providing insight into content quality and relevance for 2026 robotics events.

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Maximizing Your Robotics Event Experience

Once you’ve selected robotics conferences to attend, preparation determines your ROI.

Pre-Event Preparation

Research attendees and exhibitors:

• Review exhibitor lists and plan booth visits
• Identify speakers you want to meet
• Research companies presenting
• Look up attendees on LinkedIn

Plan your schedule:

• Register for workshops and sessions early
• Book meetings with key contacts in advance
• Balance conference sessions with exhibition time
• Schedule rest periods to avoid burnout

Prepare your materials:

• Update your LinkedIn profile
• Bring business cards or digital contact sharing
• Prepare your elevator pitch
• Load relevant apps and event platforms

During the Event

Engage actively:

• Ask questions during sessions
• Visit booths and have substantive conversations
• Attend networking receptions and social events
• Participate in demonstrations and hands-on activities

Document your experience:

• Take notes during presentations
• Photograph interesting demonstrations (when permitted)
• Collect literature and contact information
• Use event hashtags for social media engagement

Follow up promptly:

• Connect with new contacts on LinkedIn within 24 hours
• Send follow-up emails while conversations are fresh
• Share resources or information you promised
• Schedule post-event calls with promising connections

Post-Event Actions

Synthesize learnings:

• Review notes and organize takeaways
• Share insights with your team
• Identify action items based on what you learned
• Compare the technologies and solutions you evaluated

Maintain relationships:

• Continue conversations started at the event
• Join online communities you discovered
• Follow companies and people on social media
• Consider collaboration opportunities

Measure ROI:

• Track leads generated
• Assess technology decisions informed by the event
• Evaluate partnerships or deals initiated
• Calculate the learning value relative to the time invested

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Virtual and Hybrid Robotics Events in 2026

While in-person robotics events offer unmatched networking and hands-on experiences, virtual and hybrid options expand accessibility.

Benefits of Virtual Robotics Events

Accessibility advantages:

• No travel costs or time investment
• Attend from anywhere globally
• Participate despite budget or schedule constraints
• Review recorded sessions on demand

Learning efficiency:

• Focus on specific sessions of interest
• Pause and rewind presentations
• Avoid exhibition floor distractions
• Participate in chat discussions without interrupting

Notable Virtual and Hybrid Events in 2026

Many major robotics conferences now offer hybrid attendance options:

• ICRA 2026: Virtual registration with livestreamed sessions
• Automate 2026: Hybrid options for remote participation
• RoboBusiness 2026: Virtual attendance package available

Additionally, purely virtual events continue:

• ROS World 2026: Global virtual conference for Robot Operating System developers
• AI & Robotics Virtual Summit: Monthly online events on specific topics
• IEEE Webinar Series: Ongoing technical presentations on robotics technology

Making Virtual Attendance Effective

To maximize virtual robotics event participation:

• Treat it like in-person attendance (schedule dedicated time, minimize distractions)
• Actively participate in chat and Q&A
• Join virtual networking sessions
• Follow up with speakers and participants via LinkedIn
• Engage with event communities on Slack or Discord

While virtual formats can’t fully replicate in-person experiences, they democratize access to robotics and automation knowledge and community.

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Industry-Specific Automation Events Beyond Pure Robotics

Several major industry trade shows feature significant automation components worth considering.

ProMat 2026 (Material Handling)

Location: Chicago, Illinois, USA
Dates: March 23-26, 2026

ProMat focuses on material handling and supply chain solutions, with massive sections dedicated to warehouse automation, AMRs, and logistics robotics. According to the Material Handling Institute, ProMat attracts over 1,000 exhibitors and 45,000+ supply chain professionals.

IMTS 2026 (Manufacturing Technology)

Location: Chicago, Illinois, USA
Dates: September 14-19, 2026

The International Manufacturing Technology Show features manufacturing equipment, including robotic machine tending, collaborative robots for machining, and industrial automation systems.

PACK EXPO International 2026

Location: Chicago, Illinois, USA
Dates: November 3-6, 2026

PACK EXPO showcases packaging automation, including robotic pick-and-place systems, vision-guided robots, and automated packaging lines critical to consumer goods manufacturing.

ATX West 2026 (Design & Manufacturing)

Location: Anaheim, California, USA
Dates: February 10-12, 2026

ATX West covers design and manufacturing technology witha  strong representation of automation components, collaborative robots, and robotics systems for production environments.

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Tips for First-Time Robotics Event Attendees

If 2026 marks your first robotics conference experience, here’s what you should know.

Set Realistic Expectations

Large automation trade shows can be overwhelming:

• You can’t see everything, focus on priorities
• Exhibitions are loud and crowded, plan breaks
• Travel and standing cause fatigue; pace yourself
• Information overload is common; take good notes

Navigate Effectively

Large venue strategies:

• Study floor plans in advance
• Wear comfortable shoes
• Identify “must-see” booths and sessions
• Use event apps for navigation and scheduling
• Visit popular booths during off-peak hours

Networking for Introverts

Robotics events can intimidate less outgoing attendees:

• Prepare conversation starters related to presentations or technologies
• Attend smaller workshops and sessions where interaction is easier
• Use online event platforms to connect before in-person meetings
• Bring a colleague for mutual support
• Remember that most attendees want to network too

Budget Considerations

Event costs extend beyond registration:

• Registration fees: Range from free (exhibitions) to $2,000+ (premium conferences)
• Travel: Flights, hotel, ground transportation
• Meals: Many events in expensive cities
• Time away: Consider lost productivity
• Total cost: Budget $3,000-$6,000 for major multi-day robotics events

Many automation conferences offer early-bird discounts, student rates, and group registrations to reduce costs.

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The Future of Robotics and Automation Events

The robotics industry event landscape continues evolving. Here’s what’s changing for 2026 and beyond.

Increased Focus on AI Integration

Every major robotics event now emphasizes artificial intelligence integration. Expect sessions on:

• Machine learning for robot perception
• Large language models controlling robotic systems
• Computer vision advances
• Reinforcement learning for manipulation
• AI-powered robot programming

Sustainability and Green Robotics

Automation events increasingly address environmental concerns:

• Energy-efficient robotic systems
• Circular economy and robot recycling
• Sustainable manufacturing automation
• Agricultural robotics for climate adaptation
• Clean energy applications

Democratization of Robotics

Robotics conferences reflect growing accessibility:

• Low-cost collaborative robots
• No-code robot programming platforms
• Cloud robotics services
• Open-source hardware and software
• Educational robotics programs

Regulatory and Ethics Tracks

Robotics events now regularly include discussions on:

• Safety standards and certification
• Liability and insurance considerations
• Workforce displacement and transition
• Ethical AI in robotics
• Privacy concerns with autonomous systems

Conclusion

The best robotics and automation events in 2026 offer unparalleled opportunities to engage with cutting-edge technology, connect with industry leaders, and advance your knowledge in this rapidly evolving field. From massive trade shows like Automate and Hannover Messe drawing tens of thousands of professionals to intimate research conferences like RSS and ISRR featuring the world’s top scientists, the 2026 calendar provides events for every role and interest. Whether you’re implementing warehouse automation, researching advanced manipulation algorithms, investing in robotics startups, or simply passionate about intelligent machines, attending the right robotics and automation events accelerates your success.

With specialized conferences covering applications from medical robotics to agricultural automation, regional events showcasing geographic ecosystems, and hybrid formats expanding accessibility, 2026 offers more ways than ever to participate in the robotics community. Plan your event strategy now, prepare thoroughly, engage actively during attendance, and follow up diligently afterward to maximize the immense value these gatherings provide for navigating the automated future.