Women in AI & Data Science (WiADS) Conference 2026
Advancing AI Through Community, Collaboration, and Inclusion
October 2026 | Minneapolis, Minnesota
The University of Minnesota AI Hub is proud to host the 2026 Women in AI & Data Science (WiADS) Conference, bringing together researchers, students, educators, industry professionals, and community leaders to explore the future of artificial intelligence and data science.
WiADS is Minnesota's premier conference dedicated to fostering collaboration, showcasing innovative research, and expanding opportunities for women and underrepresented voices in AI and data science. Whether you're new to the field or leading groundbreaking work, WiADS offers opportunities to learn, connect, and inspire.
About WiADS
The Women in AI & Data Science (WiADS) Conference is Minnesota's premier gathering dedicated to advancing artificial intelligence and data science through collaboration, innovation, and inclusion. Hosted by the University of Minnesota AI Hub, WiADS brings together researchers, students, educators, industry professionals, entrepreneurs, and community leaders to explore how AI can create meaningful impact across disciplines and communities.
In 2025, more than 700 attendees representing 378 organizations came together to discuss the technologies shaping our future—and, more importantly, the values that should guide them. Throughout the conference, speakers emphasized that AI is not just a technical pursuit, but a human one. From healthcare and higher education to public policy, business, and scientific research, sessions demonstrated how responsible, ethical, and inclusive AI can improve lives and strengthen communities.
WiADS is more than a one-day conference. It is a growing community committed to sharing knowledge, amplifying diverse perspectives, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, and creating opportunities for the next generation of AI and data science leaders. Whether you're presenting groundbreaking research, exploring new career pathways, or connecting with peers across sectors, WiADS provides a welcoming space to learn, collaborate, and help shape the future of AI.
As we look toward WiADS 2026, we invite you to join a community that believes the future of AI will be defined not only by technological breakthroughs, but by the people, partnerships, and purpose behind them.
"The future of AI isn't just built through technology—it's built through collaboration, inclusion, and a shared commitment to creating AI that matters."
Why Attend?
Learn
- Discover the latest advances in AI and data science.
- Hear from leading researchers and practitioners.
- Explore emerging technologies and real-world applications.
Connect
- Network with professionals, students, researchers, and educators.
- Meet collaborators from across academia and industry.
- Build lasting connections within Minnesota's AI community.
Grow
- Explore career opportunities.
- Share ideas and experiences.
- Find inspiration for your next project or research collaboration.
Stay Connected
The WiADS Resource Site is your central destination for conference updates, deadlines, speaker announcements, registration, sponsorship opportunities, and community resources.
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