State of AI in Austin 2026

Join Us for the State of AI in Austin

January 27, 2026 – 3:30pm – 6:00pm, Austin Central Library

Join 200+ AI leaders, innovators, and stakeholders for the second annual State of AI in Austin — an afternoon of groundbreaking research insights, inspiring awards celebrating local AI champions, an expert panel, and hands-on demos showcasing what’s next in Austin’s AI ecosystem.

We’ll share findings from our comprehensive State of AI Report (a McKinsey-style analysis of research and dynamics across the globe) and our State of AI in Austin Survey (stratified and balanced to accurately represent the citizens of Austin and the greater Austin CAPCOG community)—providing the data-driven insights you need to navigate 2026.

Last year we had excellent press coverage, and we expect even more media attention this year given our momentum and growing AI trends.

2026 Program Highlights 

• How AI is changing economic development and job market for Austinites
• 2025 Successes in startups, corporates, non-profits, and other organizations
• Privacy, Security, Ethical, and Responsible AI
• How cities can thoughtfully adopt advanced tools while staying true to community values
• Practical approaches to Human-AI collaboration that enhance rather than replace human expertise
• AI transformation trends for Austin in 2026

Recognizing AI Excellence in Austin

We’ll honor the organizations and individuals shaping AI in Austin across six key areas: innovation and research (Advance), real-world applications (Accelerate), workforce development and AI literacy (Augment), community and societal impact (Achieve), responsible AI practices (Articulate), and individual leadership.

Nominations are open to both members and non-members of the Alliance, If you know someone making an impact on AI in Austin, we want to celebrate their work. Submit your nomination here.

Innovation Showcase: Share What You’re Building

Showcase tables are available before and after the main program for teams advancing how Austinites work, learn, build, or govern with AI. Connect directly with stakeholders, investors, and experts while demonstrating your work.

Working on something you’d like to show off? Reach out to info@austin-ai.org for information about securing a showcase table.

Why Attend

• Connect with 200+ AI leaders, innovators, and stakeholders shaping Austin’s future
• Gain insights from comprehensive research on Austin’s AI landscape and global trends
• Celebrate breakthrough work through our AI Awards ceremony
• Network with teams building local innovations
• Enjoy light food and beverages

Secure Your Spot

Get your tickets below. Full Members receive 2 complimentary tickets. Make sure your organization is registered to take advantage of this benefit.

AGENDA

3:30pm – Doors Open; Innovation showcase from members and leaders of AI in Austin

4:00pm – Welcome and Opening Remarks

4:05pm – Keynote Address by Vivek Mohindra, SVP, Special Advisor to Vice Chair & COO, at Dell Technologies. He’ll explore: 

• The evolving role of AI leadership in business, government, and society
• How innovation, responsibility, and scale intersect
• Austin’s position within the national and global AI landscape
• A call to action for builders, leaders, and change agents

4:30pm – Panel Discussion: AI Leaders & Change Agents moderated by Sean Bauld, Executive Director of the Austin AI Alliance 

Panelists include:

• Paige Fults, Head of School at Alpha and systems designer focused on how AI can enable deeply personalized learning 
  
• Marta Vieira Gattis, Vice President of People Strategy and Operations at Indeed
• Oji Udezue, Co-Author of “Building Rocketships,” a blueprint for fast-growing companies in the age of AI
• Larry Peterson, Executive Director of Texas Foundation for Innovative Communities 

5:00pm – Awards

5:15pm – Networking and Innovation Showcase

Interested in Partnering? 

We’d love to discuss collaboration opportunities and how your organization can get involved with the Austin AI Alliance’s initiatives for 2026. Reach out to us at info@austin-ai.org to connect in advance of the event.