ISE has launched the ISE Foundation, an industry-led initiative aimed at creating lasting benefits for the AV and systems integration ecosystem.
The foundation aims to enable year-round programmes that connect industry professionals, support emerging startups, and strengthen local community initiatives in Barcelona and Catalonia.
The foundation aims to create a formal structure to extend ISE’s contribution to the industry beyond the show, established with AVIXA and CEDIA, and supported by the Barcelona City Council and the Government of Catalonia,
Announced on the opening day of ISE 2026, the foundation aims to mark a strategic evolution of the show’s role within the AV ecosystem, with the goal of delivering a year-round program for workforce development, startup acceleration, and industry-led social impact.
A key goal of the foundation is talent development, aiming to address skills shortages that continue to affect every branch of the AV industry. The foundation plans to address this gap through structured, scalable initiatives, offering a Training the Trainers programme to equip educators with industry-aligned AV competencies using curricular developed by AVIXA and CEDIA. Piloted in Catalonia in 2025 by AVIXA, the programme is now set to expand through plans to partner with up to 150 institutions.
Complementary initiatives, including AV career days, and the planned introduction of vocational pathways from 2027, are also designed to create a clearer, more direct route from education into employment within the AV sector.
The foundation will provide increased continuity and post-event support for emerging companies, offering structured mentorship, investor engagement, and access to industry networks.
Early-stage ventures will also receive support to move beyond proof-of-concept towards commercial viability, aiming to nurture technologies.
Strategic collaborations are being developed with organisations including Hospital Sant Joan de de Déu, Associació Cívica La Nau and Fundació Joan Miró, as well as projects connected to Casa Batlló. These partnerships aim to translate the capabilities of the AV sector into measurable impact across healthcare, education, and cultural engagement.
Mike Backman, managing director, Integrated Systems Events, commented: "The ISE Foundation formalises our commitment to the AV sector while strengthening ties with our host city.
"By working closely with local institutions and the broader industry, AVIXA, CEDIA and the ISE Foundation can build a lasting legacy that supports innovation, talent development, and community engagement year-round, further ensuring our impact is meaningful, sustainable, and beneficial for both professionals and the wider region."