SAN FRANCISCO — Easyfairs acquired The AI Conference.
This event was created by Founder and CEO Shon Burton and focuses on applied AI, which is how the technology’s systems are built, deployed, governed and scaled in real-world environments.
Its program spans fundamental research and governance, large language models, AI frameworks and architecture, AI platforms and AI solution development, and combines technical depth with practical applications and strategic insight.
The event kicks off with Day ZERØ, an exclusive pre-conference day for senior AI leaders, and days one and two bring together builders, researchers and leaders for five-track programming, main-stage keynote presentations, a Startup Showdown and an Innovation Hub.
“What really stood out to us was how quickly The AI Conference has established itself in such an important and fast-moving sector,” Matt Benyon, CEO of Easyfairs, said. “It has a very clear identity, with a strong focus on applied AI and it is taking place in San Francisco, right at the center of the global AI ecosystem. For us, it is a very strong strategic fit and exactly the kind of high-quality, specialist event we want to invest in as we continue to build leading positions in growth markets.”
Key Collaboration
This move gives The AI Conference access to Easyfairs’ international events expertise, operational resources and global network. Easyfairs is committed to retaining the knowledge, relationships and entrepreneurial drive of the event’s team as well.
“Our approach is very much about collaboration,” Benyon said. “The AI Conference already has a strong identity, an impressive position in the market and a team with deep knowledge, relationships and entrepreneurial energy behind it … We see this as a partnership in which both sides bring real strengths, with a shared ambition to develop the event further, extend its reach and preserve the qualities that have made it so compelling.”
Related. Easyfairs Launches Digital Accountancy Show USA in Texas
Expanded Stateside Presence
According to Benyon, this acquisition strengthens the Easyfairs portfolio in two vital ways: First, it adds a very relevant, high-growth event in a sector that is becoming more important across almost every industry and second, it further reinforces the company’s foothold in the U.S.
This is the organization’s second acquisition and fourth event in the U.S., and shows how they are continuing to expand their presence in the region through a mix of launches and targeted acquisitions in specialist sectors.
The acquisition builds on the momentum they have already created through the launch of Coiltech North America, the acquisition of Energy Projects Conference & Expo and the launch of the Digital Accountancy Show USA.
“We are genuinely excited about this acquisition,” Benyon said. “It is another positive step in the growth of Easyfairs in the U.S. and a great example of the kind of specialist event we believe in strongly. More than that, it reflects our confidence in the long-term importance of communities built around innovation, knowledge-sharing and practical application. We are looking forward to working with Shon and the team and supporting the next stage of The AI Conference’s development.”
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