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Braindate at the AIA26 Expo!

One conversation can change everything—the way you think, the way you work, or where your career goes next. 

New this year, Braindate comes to the AIA26 Expo to make those conversations easier to find. It’s a more intentional way to connect with peers, experts, and exhibitors—one focused conversation at a time.

Conference attendees connecting, learning, and networking with peers, experts, and exhibitors.

Your next career-defining connection is a conversation away

You’re coming to AIA26 Expo for more than products and expo credit sessions—you’re here to exchange ideas, build relationships, and move your work forward.

Instead of relying on chance encounters, Braindate connects you through one-on-one or small-group discussions centered around shared interests, challenges, and ideas. Whether you’re navigating practice change, exploring specification needs, or just looking for a fresh design perspective, Braindate turns curiosity into meaningful connection—right on the expo floor.

Get ready to start braindating

Braindate is built right into the AIA26 mobile app (coming soon to Apple and Android), making it easy to get started.

  1. Select Braindate after opening the AIA26 app
  2. Browse the Topic Market to see conversations others are hosting
  3. Join a Braindate—or post your own topic and invite others to join

Braindates take place Thursday and Friday, June 11–12, in the Braindate Lounge on the expo floor.

Host your own Braindate—like a pro

Have a business challenge to solve? A spec question you’re stuck on? A big idea to pressure test? Post a topic in the in-app Topic Market and invite others to join.

You’re not giving a talk, you’re starting a conversation. The best Braindates:

  • Start with quick introductions
  • Invite everyone to share why they joined
  • Stay curious and conversational
  • Save a few minutes at the end for key takeaways

Need a hand? Help is always nearby

Stop by the Braindate Lounge at the expo to connect with Learning Concierges, who can help you:

  • Craft a strong topic
  • Book your first Braindate
  • Just talk, so you can jump in feeling confident

You can also use the platform’s built-in AI tools to spark ideas and get started quickly.

One conversation can change everything

What if the person who shifts your thinking—or sparks your next move—is just one conversation away?

Braindate makes it easier to find them. Join the conversation at AIA26 and experience networking that actually works.

Register and start braindating