The world’s leading event dedicated to robotics and automation concluded with record-breaking results. ICRA 2026 (IEEE International Conference on Robotics and Automation) transformed Vienna into the global hub of innovation, attracting participants from around the world and delivering the most successful edition in the congress’s history. Held under the theme ‘Robots for All’, the event brought together researchers, technology leaders, startups, students and innovators to explore how robotics is increasingly shaping industries, cities and everyday life.
The 2026 edition significantly surpassed previous records, registering:
- Nearly 9,000 participants, compared to 6,200 in 2025
- 196 international exhibitors, the highest number ever recorded by the congress
- More than 14,000 sqm dedicated to exhibitions, competitions and live demonstrations
- The strongest sponsorship performance in the event’s history
The record-breaking results are the outcome of a five-year strategic journey that began in 2021, when AIM Austria, part of AIM Group International, successfully led Vienna’s bid to host ICRA 2026 together with the Technical University of Vienna, the Vienna Convention Bureau and VIECON. Following the city’s selection, AIM served as the congress organiser and strategic partner throughout the entire project lifecycle, overseeing congress management, sponsorship development, exhibition planning, stakeholder engagement and attendee experience design. The unprecedented growth achieved by ICRA 2026 reflects the value of a long-term vision, strong international partnerships and a fully integrated event strategy.
ICRA 2026 distinguished itself through its commitment to making robotics accessible beyond the scientific community. One of the most successful initiatives was the Festival of Robots, which brought robotics and automation into the heart of Vienna through free exhibitions, live demonstrations and educational activities open to the public. The initiative attracted families, students and curious citizens, reinforcing one of the congress’s central messages: robotics is no longer a technology of the future, it is already transforming the way people live, work and interact with the world around them. Beyond its scientific achievements, ICRA 2026 generated a significant economic and social impact for Vienna. The arrival of nearly 9,000 delegates from around the world delivered substantial benefits to the city’s hospitality, tourism, transport and service sectors, while reinforcing Vienna’s position as one of the world’s leading destinations for international scientific and technology congresses.
A highlight of the social programme was the Imperial Night, an unforgettable gala evening held at the iconic Hofburg Palace and the Spanish Riding School, which brought together 4,800 participants and showcased Vienna’s unique cultural heritage through exceptional hospitality, entertainment and event experiences.
The event also created lasting value through knowledge exchange, international visibility, industry collaboration and public engagement initiatives that extended well beyond the congress venue.
The success of ICRA 2026 also represents a major achievement for Vienna, showcasing the city’s ability to host large-scale scientific and technology events while creating meaningful connections between academia, industry and society. Sustainability and social impact were embedded throughout the event, with initiatives focused on waste reduction, public engagement and inclusion, reflecting a shared commitment to creating long-term value for the destination and its citizens.
For AIM Group International, ICRA 2026 represents one of the most significant achievements in the organisation’s recent history. The congress showcased AIM’s ability to secure, develop and deliver large-scale international events that combine scientific excellence, commercial success, stakeholder engagement and meaningful destination impact. It also reinforces AIM’s position as a leading global partner for associations and institutions seeking to create transformative congress experiences with long-lasting value.
As robotics continues to play a growing role in addressing global challenges, from healthcare and mobility to manufacturing and education, ICRA 2026 demonstrated how innovation can be made accessible, inclusive and relevant to everyone. For one week, Vienna was not only the world capital of robotics. It became a glimpse into the future.
