Integrated Systems Europe (ISE) has officially launched the ISE Foundation, a new industry-led initiative designed to create lasting benefits for the AV and systems integration ecosystem. Established alongside co-owners AVIXA and CEDIA, the Foundation aims to extend the impact of the world’s largest AV exhibition well beyond its four-day duration.
Announced on the opening day of ISE 2026 under the theme “Powering On, Together,” this initiative marks a strategic shift for the organization. The Foundation will enable year-round programs that connect industry professionals, support emerging startups and strengthen local community initiatives in Barcelona and Catalonia.
Support for the project comes from high-level stakeholders, including the Barcelona City Council and the Government of Catalonia.
Related: Mike Blackman Kicks Off ISE 2026 with a Call to ‘Push Beyond’
What is the purpose of the ISE Foundation?
The primary goal of the ISE Foundation is to create a formal structure that extends ISE’s contribution to the AV industry throughout the year. Rather than functioning solely as an annual trade show, ISE is evolving into a platform for continuous development.
By joining forces with AVIXA and CEDIA, the Foundation will deliver a year-round program focused on three critical areas:
- Workforce development
- Startup acceleration
- Industry-led social impact
“The ISE Foundation formalizes our commitment to the AV sector while strengthening ties with our host city,” says Mike Blackman, managing director of Integrated Systems Events. “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.”
How will the Foundation address talent shortages?
A central pillar of the Foundation is talent development. Skills shortages remain a significant challenge for manufacturers, integrators and service providers across the AV landscape. The Foundation aims to address this gap through structured, scalable initiatives.
Key talent programs
- Training the Trainers: This program equips educators with industry-aligned AV competencies using curricula developed by AVIXA and CEDIA. Following a successful pilot in Catalonia in 2025, the program is set to expand significantly. Plans are in place to partner with up to 150 institutions.
- AV Career Days: Events designed to introduce students and job seekers to opportunities within the industry.
- Vocational Pathways: Planned for introduction from 2027, these pathways are designed to create a clearer route from education into employment within the AV sector.
How does the Foundation support innovation?
Innovation forms the second core focus of the new initiative. Building on the momentum of Innovation Park at ISE 2026, which hosted 130 startups, the Foundation will provide greater continuity and post-event support for emerging companies.
The objective is to move early-stage ventures beyond proof-of-concept toward commercial viability. Support mechanisms include:
- Structured mentorship programs
- Investor engagement opportunities
- Access to extensive industry networks
This approach ensures the Foundation actively nurtures the technologies that will shape the next phase of market development rather than simply showcasing them on a trade show floor.
What are the social responsibility initiatives?
The Foundation’s third pillar centers on social responsibility and reinforcing the societal value of AV technologies. The organization is developing strategic collaborations with several key organizations.
Partnerships include:
- Hospital Sant Joan de Déu
- Associació Cívica La Nau
- Fundació Joan Miró
- 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.
“We’re proud to join CEDIA to form this initiative, which strengthens the audiovisual industry by expanding career pathways, supporting emerging businesses and fostering significant social impact,” says AVIXA CEO David Labuskes.
What comes next?
The launch was announced at a press conference attended by leadership from ISE, AVIXA, CEDIA and local government officials, highlighting the shared commitment to the project’s long-term success.
Further details regarding governance, specific program rollouts and operational timelines are expected to be announced in the coming months as the ISE Foundation moves into its implementation phase.
