From AI to Geopolitics: JLA’s Guide to What Audiences Want in 2026

After supporting over 2,400 events for 1,200 clients with 806 speakers, presenters and performers in 2025, we’re now looking ahead at what will be driving demand throughout 2026: applied AI, geopolitics, leadership and sector disruption.

Organisations want keynote speakers who can help facilitate fast-moving change in practical and relevant ways. At JLA, our ever-evolving database of speakers is perfectly positioned to tackle the big talking points for the next 12 months and beyond.

AI and Strategy will once again dominate the conversation.

Last year, we saw enquiries for speakers on all aspects of AI – from agentic AI to implementation and strategy, through to the impact of quantum computing – were more than double those for any other topic, and we don’t see this trend changing. It’s clear that organisations are prioritising these areas, and want experts who can help them understand the technology and make it work for their business.

Technical expertise combined with policy knowledge is increasingly valuable.

As AI, cybersecurity and regulation evolve rapidly, professionals who can bridge the gap between complex technical challenges and strategic decision-making will be in high demand. At JLA we can identify the right AI speaker to meet your specific needs.


Top AI and Strategy Speakers for your 2026 Events


Geopolitics will be high on the agenda throughout 2026.

Developments in the geopolitical sphere continue to defy expectations – from old alliances crumbling and populations demanding change to policy being upended with a single social media post. Now more than ever, organisations need up-to-the-minute insight on global affairs to manage their risk strategy.

Understanding geopolitical dynamics and strategic implications remains essential, whether you’re considering where to invest, expand your market, or if your supply chain is vulnerable. With the geopolitical landscape evolving by the day, audiences are seeking leaders’ perspectives on how to navigate global challenges and risk with confidence.

At JLA, we have the perfect selection of Geopolitical Speakers to help your business maintain control through the uncertainty ahead.

Geopolitical speakers to guide you through the year and beyond.


Leadership in 2026 matters more than ever.


With more complexity and uncertainty to come in 2026, there are greater demands on our leaders. The need for organisations to support decision-makers in dealing with incomplete information, rapidly changing situations, pressures on teams, and competing priorities is more important than ever.

Speakers who can combine knowledge of the issues leaders face with practical tools for addressing them are in constant demand. Whether it’s human behaviour or strategic shifts, leaders need ideas and frameworks they can implement immediately.


Leadership speakers to make a real impact.


General Tips for Booking Keynote Speakers in 2026

Important dates in the 2026 calendar

1-28 Feb – LGBTQ+ History Month
6-22 Feb – Winter Olympics
8 Mar – International Women’s Day
1-30 Apr – Stress Awareness Month
7 May – Local Elections (England) & National Assembly Elections (Scotland, Wales)
12-18 May – Mental Health Awareness Week
1-30 Jun – Pride Month
11 Jun – 19 Jul – FIFA Men’s World Cup
23 Jul – 2 Aug – Commonwealth Games (Glasgow)
7-31 Aug – Edinburgh Fringe Festival
1-31 Oct – Black History Month
3 Nov – US Mid-Term Elections
9-20 Nov – COP 31
17-23 Nov – Global Entrepreneurship Week
 
If you would like more information on these or any other speakers, or would like to discuss an event more generally, please contact your JLA Agent or call 020 7907 2800.

Speaker on Stage giving a Keynote Speech

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