IBM: “Web Summit is where business becomes real”

For more than five years, Web Summit has been a key moment for the IBM team to connect directly with over 70,000 attendees, including startups, governments, and industry leaders.

“Web Summit is a reference point in the technology world, and in the startup world, and it’s a place where we can show what we do best. Partnering with Web Summit is a completely must for us”, – Ricardo Martinho, Country Manager of IBM Portugal.

Ricardo Martinho plays with the F-1 simulator, one of the most popular experiences at the IBM booth

Why Web Summit?

IBM considers Web Summit as a must-attend event due to its unparalleled position in the global tech and startup ecosystem.

“Even with AI everywhere, getting people together face-to-face is still incredibly important. Technology is meant to connect people, not divide them. Our stand is always packed because people want that direct, shared experience.”

Every year at Web Summit, IBM shares its vision for cutting-edge technologies, positioning itself as a leader driving industry transformation.

“It’s more than just a show. We have meetings scheduled all week with major customers, startups, new projects, and even the government representatives. It’s where business becomes real.”

Each year, IBM consistently hosts one of Web Summit’s busiest stands

IBM as Web Summit’s Official 2026 AI Partner

IBM is Web Summit’s Official AI Partner across all 2026 events. As part of this collaboration, it will host a series of activations and a content programme focused on AI and quantum for businesses.

“Our strong commitment to AI in sports is driving innovation, and this challenge encourages startups to showcase their technology and solutions for sports”.

If you’re a startup bringing incredible ideas to sports, make sure to apply for the IBM Sports Tech Challenge here.

IBM has also partnered with tennis legend Maria Sharapova. In 2024, she took part in an improvised game challenge with attendees at the IBM booth.

Maria Sharapova, entrepreneur and tennis legend, playing at IBM stand

With immersive experiences and cutting-edge activations with brands like Ferrari, IBM’s stand is often one of the most talked-about and high-traffic spots throughout the days of Web Summit.

“People need to feel the tech to understand it. The F1 Ferrari partnership (announced at Web Summit) where fans can experience the data collected from a race car in our booth, it’s like driving an F1 Ferrari yourself! So it’s amazing to bring this opportunity to everyone.”

IBM showcases innovation globally and year-round. So what sets Web Summit apart for them?

“What sets Web Summit apart is its focus on new companies and startups. Bringing companies of every size together is truly unique”.

Bigger presence equals a bigger return

If there’s any advice to give to other companies planning to join Web Summit, Ricardo Martinho is direct:

“If you’re doing big things, show them big. Bigger presence equals a bigger return. I remember IBM presenting the first quantum computer, and everyone was blown away. I think that IBM understood that from the beginning.”

As we head into 2026, this successful partnership is set for even greater things, and we are thrilled to be part of what’s next.

Join IBM and other major companies at Web Summit. Become a partner.