We’re excited to share more information about an upcoming Summit!
Palm Springs’ first-ever summit focused on artificial intelligence, emerging technology, creativity, education, and business innovation returns with a bold new identity: PS/NExT Summit 2026 — New Experiences in Technology, happening June 22–23 at the Palm Springs Convention Center. Visit PalmSpringsNExT.com for information.
PS/NExT Summit 2026 is a 1.5-day experience bringing together the community and leaders in AI, emerging tech, creativity, business, and education to develop skills, solve challenges, spark innovation, and expand economic opportunities across the region.
We know there are many questions and concerns about this new era of technology, and that’s an integral part of the agenda.
The speaker lineup
The exciting lineup of renowned voices driving the future of innovation includes AI artist Kelly Boesch, known for her large-scale immersive visual experiences and digital artistry. Headlining the event is Rob Minkoff, co-director of Disney’s Academy Award–winning film The Lion King.
“I’m excited to return to Palm Springs for the PSNExT Summit. Technology and creativity have always been inextricably linked, and it feels like we’re standing at the edge of an unprecedented new era for artists and storytellers. Palm Springs is the perfect place for that conversation, a city where the arts are deeply embedded in its DNA. And if this Summit can also make a meaningful impact on education, and young people, that makes it all the more important.”
Also keynoting are Baratunde Thurston and Philip Su.
Tickets & access
Tickets are on sale now at PalmSpringsNExT.com for $250, with a special $95 two-day pass available exclusively for Coachella Valley residents. Local students and educators can attend for FREE through sponsored community access programs.
The official and FREE kick-off event will take place May 21, 2026 at 5:00 PM at the Agua Caliente Cultural Museum.
Six immersive tracks
PS/NExT Summit 2026 — New Experiences in Technology will feature six immersive tracks focused on residents, small business, education, creativity and entrepreneurship — including a Local Business Vibe-a-thon innovation challenge and GenJam, a creative sprint for AI-powered film, music, and visual art.
To register and get more info, visit www.PalmSpringsNExT.com.
Steering committee
Our steering committee — who have volunteered their time to create this event — includes Peter Loforte, Hael Kobayashi, Chris Wilson, Colleen Baumbach, Wendy Beerbower, Ellen Goodman, Baratunde Thurston, Wayne Olson, Steven Stamstad, Habib Jaffer, and Brian O'Connor.