Lessons from 2025 for a strong 2026

One of the most reliable places to start is audience engagement. The event formats that kept people involved this year point to what should guide next year’s rhythm. It may be the rise of shorter touchpoints, the return of hands-on sessions, or a shift toward smaller and more intentional gatherings. What matters is understanding what actually worked with your communities instead of blindly following larger trends.

Budgets also spoke clearly in 2025. Many teams had to make smarter choices, and it showed which investments genuinely created value. Looking back at where spending supported the experience and where it had little effect helps shape financial plans that feel realistic without losing ambition.

Sustainability requirements continued to tighten, and the most effective measures were the ones that produced visible change. Tracking what reduced waste, what cut transport impact, or which suppliers delivered on their promises will make 2026 easier to navigate. The baseline for responsible events has shifted, and 2026 planning needs to reflect that shift with calm confidence.

Institutional agendas will also set the tone. As EU priorities evolve, they shape themes, formats and the level of participation organisations can expect. Reading these signals early allows teams to design events that sit comfortably within policy conversations rather than running behind them.

Finally, no plan is complete without an honest look at internal capacity. This year revealed where teams struggled, where processes slowed things down, and where external support made the difference. Addressing these gaps now helps create a smoother path for 2026.

Planning should not begin on a blank page. It begins with the lessons of the past year, translated into decisions that bring clarity, stability and impact. When teams treat 2025 as a source of insight, 2026 becomes easier to shape with intention.

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