WABE 2026: A Sneak Peek of What’s Coming

It is hard to believe September is already here, and we are about to hit the one month mark to the 76th edition of the WABE Media and Entertainment Technology Conference, held this year at the Pinnacle Hotel Harbourfront in Vancouver from Oct. 5-7.

For those of us in traditional broadcast, Sept. 1 usually marks the start of a new fiscal year…and the moment when the projects we’ve planned and submitted get the Caesar-esque thumbs up or thumbs down. For those that get the green light, the next question is: what technology will do the job best?

I can say with confidence that one of the best places in Western Canada to find that answer will be the WABE Exhibit Hall at the beginning of October. Join us and check out the 41 vendors that will be showcasing the latest and greatest technologies across a wide range of areas. You can see a sneak peek at what’s coming by checking out the interactive directory of sponsors and vendors on our website.

As you may know, the WABE Conference is two-fold – an exhibit hall paired with educational sessions. And our sessions team hit it out of the park this year. We have something for everyone in the media and entertainment technology industry. From the oft-talked about topic of AI, traditional audio and RF, to the ins-and-outs of live production. The final touches are being added to our schedule almost daily, with the completed schedule available shortly.

WABE has been working hard over the past number of years towards a goal of being the home for the technical backbone of content creation in Canada. And we can say that there is something for everyone at this year’s conference, regardless of whether you work in AV, film, live events, broadcast, or content delivery.

It’s the largest gathering in Canada for this type of cross-sector exchange. And we’ve done what we can to keep the cost low to attend:

  • Free to attend the Exhibit Hall
  • $175 for a full conference pass
  • $15 for our Media Mixer and awards presentation
  • Day passes are available for programming sessions

We are only able to do this because of the generous support of our sponsors — companies who understand our mission and have helped volunteers keep WABE going for the past 76 years.

One thing is certain, the media and entertainment industry is evolving faster than ever. Broadcast, streaming, film, live production, AV, gaming, telecommunications, and digital media are increasingly connected through new technologies, changing workflows, and innovative ways of creating and delivering content. This year’s conference theme, WHERE MEDIA CONVERGES, explores how technologies such as artificial intelligence, cloud production, IP networking, immersive media, streaming, automation, and data-driven workflows are transforming our industry. Whether you’re an engineer, technologist, content creator, educator, student, manufacturer, or industry leader, attending WABE gives you a window into the technologies and ideas shaping the future of media and entertainment.

Come to connect. Come to learn. Come to share what you know.

Lastly, I would be remiss, if I did not thank the team of volunteers that make this conference and organization as a whole function. I can say that it takes countless hours of work behind the scenes to plan and organize this event. 

So register now, and come join us for the WABE Conference in Vancouver!