Your Guide to Finding the Next Big Thing at CES 2026
Innovation doesn't wait, and neither should you.
CES 2026 is where the future of technology takes shape — where groundbreaking startups showcase their vision, where billion-dollar ideas begin and where smart investors gain the competitive edge they need to identify what's next.
As an investor, you're not just looking for products — you're looking for potential. You need to spot emerging trends before they become mainstream, meet founders before they become household names and build relationships that will define the next decade of tech innovation. CES is where all of that happens under one roof.
Step 1. Connect. Discover. Invest.
The investment landscape is more competitive than ever, and finding high-potential opportunities requires being in the right place at the right time. CES brings together the complete innovation ecosystem — from pre-seed startups to Series C companies — all actively seeking capital and strategic partnerships.
But CES isn't just about seeing what's new. It's about targeted access to investment-ready companies across every sector shaping our future: AI, robotics, healthtech, mobility, sustainability and beyond. Whether you're an angel investor, venture capitalist, corporate investor or family office, CES provides the platform to identify, evaluate and connect with your next portfolio company.
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Investor Partnership Program (IPP)
This is your VIP pass to the innovation economy. Designed exclusively for the investment community, IPP provides premium access, curated networking, and strategic intelligence to maximize your CES experience.
- Exclusive access to exhibitor funding insights (Tier 2)
- Private investor lounges with dedicated meeting spaces
- Invitation-only networking events and receptions
- VIP keynote passes and conference session access
- Curated programming built specifically for investors
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CTA Match
CTA Match is your direct line to investment-ready startups. This curated matchmaking program connects investors with entrepreneurs whose technology, stage, and vision align with your investment thesis.
- Algorithmic matching based on industry, stage, and investment focus
- Pre-scheduled one-on-one meetings with qualified startups
- In-person sessions at the Venetian Expo
- Direct access to CTA members and CES exhibitors seeking capital
- Streamlined evaluation process saves valuable time
CES Insider Tip
Step 2. Experience Innovation at the Source
Eureka Park: The Home of Startups at CES
If you're serious about early-stage investing, Eureka Park is your must-visit destination. This dedicated startup showcase brings together startups from around the world — all at the critical inflection point where innovation meets market opportunity.
Eureka Park isn't just another exhibit hall. It's the proving ground where tomorrow's unicorns demonstrate their technology, refine their pitch and actively seek the capital and partnerships they need to scale. This is where you'll find:
- Pre-revenue to Series A companies across every major tech category
- International innovators bringing fresh perspectives from global markets
- Emerging sectors before they hit mainstream investor radar
- Founders on-site ready to discuss their vision, metrics, and funding needs
Shark Tank at CES 2026
Shark Tank, the five-time Emmy® Award–winning hit show that gives entrepreneurs their shot at the American Dream, is on the hunt for bold business owners and game-changing products. Think you’ve got what it takes to swim with the Sharks? Don’t miss your chance! Meet the Casting team in person at CES during our open call. Numbered wristbands will be handed out from 9–11 AM, and only those with a wristband have the opportunity to pitch.
Step 3. Learn from the Leaders
Smart investing requires market intelligence, and the CES conference program delivers deep insights into the trends, technologies, and business models that will define the next investment cycle. The dedicated Investing Track features sessions specifically designed for the investment community.
Investing Conference Track
Gain perspectives from fellow investors, successful founders, and industry analysts on:
- Emerging investment opportunities across tech sectors
- Due diligence strategies for evaluating hardware and software startups
- Exit strategies and M&A trends in consumer technology
- Portfolio company scaling insights from successful exits
- Regulatory and policy impacts on tech investments
- Cross-border investment dynamics and global market entry
- Corporate venture strategies and strategic partnerships
- Impact investing and sustainability-focused innovation
CES Insider Tip
Why Investors Choose CES
The numbers tell the story. CES attracts a concentration of innovation, capital, and decision-makers that exists nowhere else:
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15+ Business deals secured on average
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53% Of attendees are senior level executives
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29 Meetings held on average
Success Stories: From CES to Investment Success
CES has been the launchpad for countless startups that have gone on to secure major funding, strategic partnerships, and market success.
These stories represent just a fraction of the investment opportunities and success stories that emerge from CES every year. The question isn't whether there's opportunity at CES — it's whether you'll be there to discover it.
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Whispp
Whispp, the AI-powered phone-calling app that converts whispered and affected speech into a person's natural voice in real time, made a powerful debut at CES 2024 in Eureka Park as part of the Dutch Pavilion. The startup attracted global attention from investors, media, and potential partners — including a personal demo for Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella.
Whispp's CES presence led to significant strategic partnerships with leading organizations in speech technology, accessibility and healthcare. The company secured inclusion in AARP's Agetech Collaborative portfolio and established collaborations with advocacy groups like Dysphonia International.
Awards earned: CES 2024 Innovation Award in Accessibility & Aging Tech and USA Today Reviewed Accessibility Award.
"CES is such an easy way to meet a lot of people in a short amount of time. Many new contacts and the network that we grew, started with CES." — Joris Castermans, Founder and CEO
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Indiegogo
Since 2016, Indiegogo has exhibited at CES to connect with industry leaders and build partnerships that fuel innovation. At CES 2025, six standout projects at the Indiegogo booth represented 6100 backers and more than $1.9 million raised — proof of the power of community-driven innovation.
CES has enabled Indiegogo to forge relationships with Fortune 500 companies and industry leaders across every sector, creating opportunities that wouldn't exist otherwise.
"CES allows us to connect with the industry leaders across every industry from small businesses all the way to the biggest Fortune 500 companies in the world. We have built a lot of partnerships with global companies that would not have happened otherwise." — Julie dePontbriand, CEO