Palm Springs Hosts Second Annual AI and Emerging Tech Summit

The City of Palm Springs is poised to enhance its reputation as a center for technological advancement by hosting the second annual PS/Next: New Experiences in Technology summit from June 22-23, 2026. This summit showcases the vital intersection of artificial intelligence and emerging technologies with a focus on fostering business innovation. As contractors and stakeholders gather at this event, they will have the opportunity to engage directly with industry experts, explore AI applications, and participate in programs designed specifically for local businesses, educators, and residents.

As the technology landscape continues to evolve rapidly, Palm Springs aims to position itself at the forefront of these discussions and initiatives. The summit is a significant evolution following the previous year’s AI & Creativity Expo, which was sold-out and drew over 500 attendees. The organizers promise that this year's event will be broader, more immersive, and attractive to those interested in practical business applications of technology, particularly in creative sectors.

The summit will feature a diverse panel of speakers, including prominent figures from both tech and entertainment. Notable attendees include Rob Minkoff, co-director of Disney's renowned animated film The Lion King; Baratunde Thurston, an Emmy-nominated author; Philip Su, a former engineering leader at Meta and OpenAI; and Kelly Boesch, an internationally recognized AI visual artist. Their presence not only highlights the event's caliber but also emphasizes the collaborative spirit between tech, business, and the creative arts, indicating a market ripe for disruption and innovation.

Procurement professionals should take note of the summit as it serves as a launching pad for new contracting opportunities. The intersection of technology and creativity implies expanding markets, particularly in tech-enabled storytelling and education programs that can benefit local businesses and educational institutions alike. The summit is structured to encourage direct interaction and collaboration through hands-on programs meant to demonstrate how AI can streamline operations and drive economic growth.

Participants can expect a range of activities, including unique challenges like the Local Business Vibe-a-thon, where engineers will develop tech solutions in real time, and GenJam, a creative sprint producing AI-generated films and music. These initiatives underline the summit's commitment to ensure that the local community plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of the tech economy.

The pricing structure is designed to maximize local participation, with discounted rates available for Coachella Valley residents and free access provided for local students and educators through sponsored programs. This accessibility underscores the summit's goal of creating a community-centric approach to emerging technologies.

Civic leaders, including Wayne Olson, Palm Springs’ chief economic development officer, emphasized the vital role this summit plays in elevating local discourse around technology and its impacts on community dynamics and economic landscapes. “PS/Next positions Palm Springs at the center of the national conversation of emerging technology and its impact on our communities and local economies,” Olson stated, articulating the community ambitions underlying this initiative.

The summit is expected to facilitate invaluable networking opportunities for government contractors, technology innovators, and creative professionals, promoting collaboration that could lead to substantial procurement and business growth in the region.

In summary, as technology and creativity converge, events like the PS/Next Summit are instrumental in steering innovative initiatives forward. By offering a platform for users, creators, and policymakers to connect, engage, and collaborate, the summit represents a forward-thinking approach to economic development driven by technological advances.

• The PS/Next Summit takes place June 22-23, 2026, in Palm Springs.
• It is organized by the City of Palm Springs Economic Development Department and the Chamber of Commerce.
• Over 50 speakers will share insights on AI and business innovation.
• Programs tailored for residents, small businesses, and educators will be highlighted.
• Accessibility initiatives include a $95 pass for locals and free access for students.
• Features real-time engineering challenges and interactive tech showcases.
• This year follows the success of last year's AI & Creativity Expo, indicating strong community interest in tech topics.
• Keynote speakers include names from major tech companies like Meta and OpenAI.
• Emphasis on tech driven economic growth and local community engagement.
• Networking sessions aim to foster collaboration between businesses and the tech community.