SBC Summit 2026 adds SBC Connect-powered structured networking for Lisbon

SBC has unveiled a structured networking programme for SBC Summit 2026, using its SBC Connect platform to let attendees line up meetings, receive curated introductions and join market-specific conversations before the event opens in Lisbon. The summit runs from 29 September to 1 October at Feira Internacional de Lisboa and the MEO Arena, with more than 40,000 betting and gaming professionals expected to attend.

The centrepiece is SBC Connect Meets, which lets Networking, Business and VIP pass holders browse the attendee list, message fellow delegates and book one-to-one meetings in the SBC Connect Lounge (CR1). Rasmus Sojmark, CEO and Founder of SBC, said: "With more than 40,000 people in one place, the real challenge is helping delegates make the best use of their time." The app also combines agendas, floor plans and personal schedules in one place. Basic access, available to all registered attendees, includes the conference agenda, exhibitor listings, floor plan and scheduling tools, but only allows users to respond to messages and meeting requests. To initiate conversations, delegates need advanced access.

Networking formats and ticketing

Beyond one-to-one meetings, the programme features four themed Speed Networking sessions covering first-time attendees, AI implementation, payments and future industry leaders. Regulatory Gaming Meetups will run 21 sessions focused on individual jurisdictions, led by regulatory specialists, to discuss licensing, compliance, market entry and policy developments. Show Floor Tours, eight guided tours of the 130,000-square-metre exhibition, will focus on themes such as AI, casino games, platforms and aggregation, sportsbooks, marketing technology, CRM, fintech and compliance. Smart Connect, meanwhile, offers pre-matched 15-minute meetings between senior operators and a limited number of suppliers based on business objectives, target markets and product requirements.

Structured networking is open to Networking, Business and VIP pass holders, and for 2026 attendees can register for these sessions directly through SBC Connect. Registration is required and places are subject to availability. Outreach credits determine how many conversations attendees can start: VIP, Sponsor, Exhibitor and Speaker passes include 200 credits, Business and Networking passes include 150, while Conference, Expo, Partner and Press passes do not include credits. A chat or meeting request costs one credit, which is refunded if the recipient replies or accepts; replying to incoming requests is free.

Evening events

Networking continues beyond the show floor. The SBC Summit Opening Party takes place on 29 September at Pavilhão Carlos Lopes with complimentary drinks and entertainment, while the event closes on 1 October with INFINITY Lisbon at the MEO Arena, headlined by DJ Tiësto. Attendees can download the SBC Connect app on Apple and Android to book sessions. Affiliate Leaders Summit attendees will use a separate event app launching soon.