ThinkAI Research & Innovation Symposium
May 14-15, 2026
Two Conferences. One Charlotte.
Catalyzing Artificial Intelligence Research & Innovation Today for a Better Tomorrow
May 14-15, 2026
Two Conferences. One Charlotte.
Catalyzing Artificial Intelligence Research & Innovation Today for a Better Tomorrow
Why Attend the ThinkAI Symposium?
Sponsored by UNC Charlotte, the Charlotte AI Institute for Research is partnering with AA//Forward to present the ThinkAI Research and Innovation Symposium. This inaugural symposium seeks to draw thought leaders in AI from across industries in the Charlotte region. The 2026 conference will take place on May 14-15, 2026, at the DuBois Center. This event brings together researchers, students, industry leaders, and community partners to explore ideas about shaping the future of artificial intelligence, with a strong emphasis on real-world successes from UNC Charlotte’s AI-based centers. The program features focused sessions and discussions highlighting applied AI across health, manufacturing, education, workforce development, and industry innovation, with contributions from the AI4Health Center, Center for Trustworthy AI Through Model Risk Management (TAIMingAI), Center for Humane AI Studies (CHAIS), Center for Identification Technology Research (CITeR), Center for Leadership Science (CLS), Center for Computational Intelligence to Predict Health and Environmental Risks (CIPHER), Center for Applied Geographic Information Science (CAGIS), and the Center for Energy Security and Reliability (CESAR). Attendees can engage through parallel technical and industry sessions, poster and demo sessions showcasing student and faculty research, and extended networking opportunities designed to foster collaboration across sectors. Together, the event emphasizes responsible, scalable, and human-centered AI while building a shared roadmap for innovation, talent development, and regional impact.
Hands-On Workshops
Attend immersive strategy sessions and technical deep dives for business leaders, focused on Al strategy, readiness tools, workforce/change strategy, and peer-driven insights.
Community & Networking
Network and connect with Al business leaders, change-makers, entrepreneurs, and practitioners in a collaborative environment to share insights and discover opportunities.
Expert Talks & Panels
Gain insights and expertise from Al thought leaders, engineers, and researchers on cutting-edge topics like open-source AI, LLM deployment, and real-world Al applications.
Practitioner-Only Access
Experience an exclusive event designed for AI practitioners and business leaders. To preserve the depth and focus of the content, attendance is limited to non-sales roles.
Registration: Coming Soon
Thursday May 14
9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Registration begins at 8 a.m.
Opening remarks at 9 a.m.
Coffee and Lunch provided.
Late afternoon reception and posters.
The Dubois Center at
UNC Charlotte Center City 320 E. 9th Street,
Charlotte, NC 28202
Lunch Reception at the Co-Lab
301 E 9th St, Charlotte, NC 28202
(across the street)
INTERESTED IN BEING A 2026 SPONSOR?
Send an Email Here
Thank you to our 2026 partners & sponsors!
Venue
The Dubois Center at UNC Charlotte Center City
320 East 9th Street, Charlotte, NC 28202
Parking
Several pay-to-park options are available within walking distance. The lowest-rate lot is 319 East 9th Street. Use the ParkMobile app and select Zone #96319.
For more parking details download the map below.
