The insurance industry has gathered at the Santa Monica Pier for InsuranceFest 2026, with a record turnout of over 1,750 registrations from more than 1,000 companies across 35 states. InsuranceFest has become a premier event for senior leaders, brokers, underwriters, risk managers, and executives to discuss the industry’s most pressing challenges.
Event Overview
The event kicked off with a yoga session, setting the tone for a day that blends serious industry discussion with the energy of a festival. Across five zones — Pacific, Ocean, Palm, Shore, and Coral — concurrent sessions are exploring artificial intelligence, cyber risk, catastrophe exposure, distribution and M&A, as well as career development for the next generation of talent.
Recurring themes across the program include the shift from AI “copilots” to agentic decision-making tools, the growing complexity of nuclear verdicts and litigation risk in the E&S space, catastrophe modeling in a more volatile climate environment, and how brokers are adapting distribution strategies amid ongoing consolidation and M&A activity.
For instance, the use of artificial intelligence in the insurance industry is becoming increasingly prevalent, with many companies leveraging AI-powered tools to streamline processes, improve efficiency, and enhance customer experience. However, as AI technology continues to evolve, it’s essential for industry professionals to stay informed about the latest developments and advancements in this field.
In addition to AI, cyber risk is another critical topic being discussed at InsuranceFest 2026. As technology continues to advance and more businesses move online, the risk of cyber attacks and data breaches is becoming a major concern for companies of all sizes. Insurance professionals must be aware of the latest threats and vulnerabilities, as well as the most effective strategies for mitigating and managing cyber risk.
Speaker Insights
Monica Sangelis, an executive vice president and Commercial alliance leader at USI for Southern California, expressed her excitement to reconnect with insurance carriers, vendors, and the future of insurance in a relaxed environment. She also highlighted the importance of challenging assumptions about AI and its role in empowering the industry.
“I am super excited to reconnect with insurance carriers, vendors market and the future of insurance in a much more relaxed environment, and also to challenge some assumptions about AI is here to help us and empower us.”
Christina Lucas, the global market leader for insurance at Google Cloud, emphasized the value of connecting across the ecosystem and exploring emerging technologies, future partners, and talent. She also highlighted the importance of collaboration and working together to drive innovation in the industry.
Both Sangelis and Lucas underscored the need for industry professionals to stay adaptable and open to new ideas and perspectives. As the insurance industry continues to evolve, it’s essential for companies to be agile and responsive to changing market conditions, customer needs, and technological advancements.
Some key takeaways from the speaker insights include the importance of emerging technologies, such as AI, blockchain, and the Internet of Things (IoT), in shaping the future of the insurance industry. Additionally, the need for collaboration and partnership across the ecosystem, including insurers, brokers, tech companies, and startups, is critical for driving innovation and growth.
New Additions and Initiatives
The biggest addition for 2026 is sponsor-led Discussion Tables across four themes: cyber, digital transformation, construction, and E&S. Each targets a real broker pain point, such as the blurring lines between D&O, EPL, and cyber coverage, or securing capacity when traditional markets say no.
Attendees are also exploring what’s next in technology, distribution, emerging risks, and leadership throughout the day, with the goal of walking away with practical ideas, new connections, and proven plays they can put to work in their own practice.
One of the new initiatives at InsuranceFest 2026 is the InsurTech Startup Pitch Competition, which provides a platform for innovative startups to showcase their solutions and compete for funding and recognition. This competition is an excellent opportunity for startups to connect with potential investors, partners, and customers, and for industry professionals to discover the latest innovations and technologies.
In addition to the startup competition, InsuranceFest 2026 features a range of interactive workshops and masterclasses, designed to provide attendees with hands-on experience and practical skills in areas such as data analytics, digital marketing, and cybersecurity. These workshops are led by industry experts and thought leaders, and offer a unique opportunity for attendees to learn from the best and network with peers.
Marketplace and Networking Opportunities
Alongside the day’s programming, attendees are working their way through a buzzing marketplace of more than 40 providers and live InsurTech experiences. They are trying out new tools, meeting potential partners, and scouting real, ready-to-use solutions for brokerage, underwriting, claims, and client challenges.
Organizers have leaned into combining festival fun with focused business development, blending mixology, volleyball, and other immersive activations with targeted workshops designed to help attendees network with partners and prospects, strengthen connections, and leave ready to act on new opportunities.
The marketplace and networking opportunities at InsuranceFest 2026 are designed to facilitate meaningful connections and collaborations between attendees, sponsors, and exhibitors. With a range of networking lounges and meeting spaces, attendees can connect with peers and potential partners in a relaxed and informal setting, and discuss business opportunities, partnerships, and collaborations.
In addition to the marketplace and networking opportunities, InsuranceFest 2026 features a range of social and entertainment activities, including live music, food and drink, and interactive games and challenges. These activities are designed to create a fun and festive atmosphere, and provide attendees with a unique and memorable experience.
What Should You Do About InsuranceFest 2026?
As the insurance industry continues to evolve, events like InsuranceFest 2026 provide a unique opportunity for senior leaders, brokers, underwriters, risk managers, and executives to come together and discuss the industry’s most pressing challenges. Whether you are looking to explore emerging technologies, adapt to changing distribution strategies, or simply connect with peers and potential partners, InsuranceFest 2026 has something to offer.
So, what should you do about InsuranceFest 2026? If you are involved in the insurance industry, it is essential to stay informed about the latest trends, technologies, and innovations. Attendees can expect to gain valuable insights, practical ideas, and new connections that can help drive business growth and success.
Will you be attending InsuranceFest 2026 or following the event’s progress from afar? What do you hope to learn or achieve from this year’s event? The insurance industry is constantly evolving, and events like InsuranceFest 2026 play a crucial role in shaping its future.
Some key steps you can take to get the most out of InsuranceFest 2026 include reviewing the event program and schedule to plan your day and ensure you don’t miss any critical sessions or activities. You can also connect with attendees and speakers on social media or through the event app to start building relationships and networking before the event.
In addition, be sure to visit the marketplace and exhibit hall to explore the latest technologies and innovations, and to meet with potential partners and vendors. You can also participate in workshops and masterclasses to gain hands-on experience and practical skills in areas such as data analytics, digital marketing, and cybersecurity.
InsuranceFest 2026 – Disclaimer
This article does not replace professional advice. Outcomes may vary by individual circumstances. Consult a qualified insurance professional for personalized guidance.
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