Icon Conference 2026
Edinburgh, 24 - 25 June 2026
The Icon Conference 2026 will feature two days of inspiring talks, lively debates, and expert insight spanning conservation today.
Icon is delighted to announce that the full Icon26 Conference Programme is now available. Taking place from the 24 - 25 June 2026 at the historic Assembly Rooms, Edinburgh, this year’s Conference will explore how the conservation profession shapes practice, challenges assumptions, and engages diverse communities across sectors.
Icon26 will shine a spotlight on the transformative power of the Conservation profession.
Programme Highlights
Delegates will enjoy three themed sessions per day, consisting of thought-provoking presentations, case studies, and expert discussion.
Day 1 | 24 June 2026
Session 1: Impact Through Innovation
- Exploring conservation-led and interdisciplinary collaboration, this session will highlight how innovative partnerships can shape impactful outcomes.
Session 2: Developing a Skilled, and Resillient Workforce
- A practical look at turning strategy into action and addressing skills currently at risk. The session will examine causes of skill loss and explore collaborative approaches to sustaining traditional and emerging conservation practices.
Session 3: Transforming Society and Engaging Communities
- Reflecting on projects that involve collaboration with local community groups, non-profits, and local practitioners, this session will consider how such work can renew relevance of collections, ensure cultural survival, and support mental wellbeing.
Icon26 will explore how the conservation profession shapes practice, challenges assumptions, and engages communities.
Day 2 | 25 June 2026
Session 4: Future Proofing Conservation
- Exploring approaches to future-proofing conservation, this session will highlight how the profession supports organisational sustainability goals, reduces environmental impact, contributes to film and media productions, and mitigates hazards in collections.
Session 5: Reimagining Care and Conservation
- Through panel discussion, this session will explore how heritage professionals can uphold the highest conservation standards through realistic, resource-aware approaches.
Session 6: Power and Impact
- Exploring the transformative potential of power in conservation practice, this session will consider how technical expertise combined with cultural sensitivity can strengthen connections with communities, how collaboration is reshaping practice, and how viewing conservation as an active site of influence can expand its impact across the sector.
We are excited to be welcoming speakers from around the world to Icon26. From emerging voices to leading experts, our speakers represent the breadth and depth of the conservation community. Please visit the Icon Conference 2026 Speakers Page to explore the full lineup.
Please click here to view the full Conference programme.
Secure Your Place
Icon is committed to accessibility. Icon26 offers a variety of ticket and payment options to ensure the Conference is accessible to all. Whether attending online or in person, delegates can select the format that best suits their needs.
For full details on ticket types and pricing, please click here.
Don't miss your chance to be part of this important conversation, early bird ticket sales end on Wednesday 31 December 2025.
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