One of the best features of conferences and events is networking and connecting with others who are passionate about the same topics you are. Usually, there are thousands of events across the globe each year catering to whatever specialty you could want to focus on — from technology, to sports, to food and wine. As we all know, due to safety precautions for COVID-19, nearly all in-person events this year have been cancelled or postponed.
So, where can you turn for the near future if you’re still interested in making those important connections and learning from experts in your field, safely? Thankfully, tons of virtual webinars and events have been popping up throughout the pandemic, many with networking or interactive components, and events meant to be in person have quickly pivoted to virtual platforms.
We've compiled a list of some of the best virtual conferences and events that you can participate in, no matter your physical location. Keep reading for more details about each event and learn what to expect if you attend.
Now in its eleventh year, Pause Fest is a movement with a mission to bring diverse intelligence together to fuel the next generation forward. With over 80,000 attendees made up of movers, shakers, and creative change-makers in its first decade of existence, Pause Fest 2021 is not one to miss out on. Complete with keynotes, panels, fireside chats, walks and talks, case studies, and workshops there is an abundance of learning and networking opportunities for everyone in attendance.
“We believe that creativity was, is and will be the future of any business; because creativity is innovation, connecting different experiences into a new one. Pause Fest provides an environment in which you can learn how to be more innovative and then apply those learnings to your everyday business, no matter the industry you’re in.” — Pause Fest
Code Beam is a conference created by developers, for developers. Over three half-day sessions composed of real-world, practical applications, Code Beam brings the latest in coding and developer insights to all attendees. Complete with keynotes and tutorial sessions led by an exciting lineup of industry experts, Code Beam is a virtual conference with the community atmosphere of the top in-person events.
Okta’s conference is a free virtual event to explore the future of people, technology, and identity.. Oktane21 is a three day conference dedicated to deepening our connection to one another as well as to the people who increasingly rely on technology in their lives. This virtual event includes an all star lineup of keynote speakers, hands-on training with experts, networking with like-minded people, as well as early access to Okta’s product vision.
Innov8 Work is a conference with a mission to bring together startups, members of the gig economy, and corporate innovators to connect and learn from one another. Complete with 1:1 meetings with investors and a startup competition where you can compete for the chance to pitch in front of innovation leaders and the future of work community, Innov8 Work is the conference for anyone looking for great networking opportunities and new ideas.
“Innov8 Work is a global community focusing on the future of work. Here you will learn about the best solutions that will enable your business to stay relevant. Here you will meet the leading people & companies in remote work, digital communications, project management, HR tech, gig economy and corporate innovation.” — Innov8 Work
The go-to event for digital marketing and design professionals, Summit has the latest insights from the world’s leading digital marketing and creative experts. With more than 200 sessions and training workshops across 11 session tracks, at Adobe Summit you can hone your skills in areas such as B2B marketing, campaign management, content creation, and digital commerce.
“Summit 2021 will be a world-class experience with more expert content, new ways to connect, and even more inspiration.” — Adobe Summit
Social Media Week New York (#SMWNYC) is a worldwide event that brings together global leaders, social media practitioners and digital marketers for a multi-day virtual event that serves as the central meeting point for the entire social media marketing industry. Participate in main stage talks, panel debates, fireside conversations, a track of academy classes, product demos, networking events and much more.
“The brilliant team at SMW have created a conference experience that is innovative and relevant for marketers across categories. As both a speaker and attendee, I have been impressed with the high caliber of content, professional team, and exciting list of participants.” Raashi Rosenberger Global Brand Marketing, Google
Think is an event focused on hybrid cloud and AI technology where advances in world-changing technologies are explored through real-world case studies,community engagement, and thought leadership. This year's virtual event includes live discussions and on-demand sessions where you will learn how to use hybrid cloud technology and artificial intelligence for business.
RightsCon, a global summit on human rights in the digital age, brings together business leaders, policy makers, general counsels, advocates, technologists, academics, government representatives, and journalists to tackle the most pressing issues in human rights and technology. This year’s 10th anniversary online event features over 1,000 expert speakers across a range of sectors, industries, and communities.
The Online Teaching Conference is a virtual gathering of faculty, staff, and administrators leading the way in developing innovative and effective online education. This conference focuses on curriculum, pedagogy, and technology to improve online instruction, learning, and student success — as well as being an opportunity for educators to network with their colleagues.
“Now more than ever, it is important to provide our faculty, staff and administrators the tools needed for online instruction, learning and student success. TechConnect is committed to bringing the online teaching community together and presenting the same quality content it has provided for the last 20 years.” — Online Teaching Conference
No matter where you are around the world, you have access to the latest innovations and content from the comfort of your own home or coworking space. Use these opportunities to block off your calendar, virtually network with peers, and soak up the latest information in your industry.