Table of Contents

What’s changed

If this isn't your first time attending ASU+GSV then here's what to know about changes to the summit.

  1. No AI show

Now AI is the show.

Rather than separate out the AI topic into its own event, the summit now adopts this theme throughout the conference including AI-focused sessions, demos, and featured companies.

2. 2026 theme: “The Power of Fusion”

Every year ASU+GSV has a central theme for the conference that summarizes what to expect across sessions and events. This year's theme is "The Power of Fusion."

  • Learning + workforce are merging
  • Education + employment pathways are collapsing together
  • AI + human skills are being discussed as one system

3. Earlier summit kickoff

Traditionally, the speaker programming for the ASU+GSV Summit starts on Monday. But for 2026, they are hosting the opening ceremony and reception on Sunday at 5 PM with speaker programming. Whether or not you have a badge, you might want to plan to arrive early on Sunday as the festivities (happy hours, dinners and parties) will start that evening.

Tips and Tricks

  • Unless you’re the fearless few who use scooters, or have some kind of unlimited Uber membership, you’ll be doing a lot of walking. Wear comfortable shoes and plan breaks between meetings long enough that you don’t need to sprint from place to place.
  • Have a scheduling link ready to share ahead of the conference so you can easily schedule focused time with good connections you make during happy hours and happenstance encounters (and make sure it blocks the appropriate buffer time before and after scheduled events).
  • Know where you want to meet with people ahead of time and scope it out when you arrive to ensure it’s as viable as you imagined
  • The LinkedIn QR code is the new business card – know how to access it quickly for others to scan so you can stay connected after a good convo. Find your QR code by:

Step 1: Click into the search bar at the top of your LinkedIn homepage on your LinkedIn mobile app.

Step 2: Click the little QR code icon on the right side of your screen next to “Show all.”

Step 3: On this screen you can view your QR code, save this screen to your photos (in case you have no service), or click “Scan” to scan someone else’s QR code.

  • Plan some downtime in the afternoon to recharge (both your mind and your devices). It helps if your housing is somewhere close to the summit. If you didn't snag a room in time at the Manchester Grand Hyatt (which, even if you try to book super early, is limited only to badge holders), there are several other great options nearby. Poolside meetings anyone?
  • Don't plan to rely on email. Most folks on site will simply rely on texting. In fact, we’ve found it works well to set an OOO email notice that includes instructions to text. The conference app is nice, but see our note above about LinkedIn QR codes.
  • Pack comfortable walking shoes. Actually, pack an extra pair of shoes in case those break.
  • Go to Ralph’s (the closest supermarket) on Sunday night to stock up on food and essentials for the week. If you’re a savvy spender, you could also use this trip to buy some microwave dinners for when you crawl in after the last happy hour each night. You will almost certainly overbuy food, so take it easy. If you tell yourself “I’ll cook at the AirBnB” you probably won’t have the time, nor energy.
  • Spill the Beans in the Seaport Village has excellent breakfast sandwiches.

Event list

These events are free to attend and open to the public (some are invite only or require RSVP). We will continue adding events as we see them so check back regularly!

Spreadsheet view -> Dakota's List (ASU+GSV 2026 version)

Submit an event

Know of an ASU+GSV 2026 event that isn't on our list and want to share? Submit this form and we'll add it to Dakota's List.

SUBMIT HERE

Edlink + ClassLink Happy Hour

When: Tue, Apr 14, 2026, 6:30 PM – 8:30 PM

Where: Garage Bar + Kitchen | 655 4th Avenue, San Diego, CA 92101

Make new connections and unwind at Garage Kitchen + Bar, a Gaslamp Quarter staple known for craft burgers, great drinks, and a good time. We'd love to see you there. Space is limited, so RSVP today.

RSVP HERE