Integrated Systems Europe (ISE) has launched the ISE Foundation, an industry-led initiative aimed at extending the exhibition’s impact beyond its annual event through workforce development, startup support and community engagement.

Established alongside ISE co-owners AVIXA and CEDIA, and supported by the Barcelona City Council and the Government of Catalonia, the Foundation creates a formal structure for year-round programs serving the AV and systems integration sector. The initiative was announced on the opening day of ISE 2026 in Barcelona.

The Foundation is built around three core pillars: talent development, innovation and social responsibility.

A primary focus is addressing ongoing skills shortages across the AV industry. Through its Training the Trainers program, the Foundation will equip educators with industry-aligned competencies using curricula developed by AVIXA and CEDIA. Following a pilot program led by AVIXA in Catalonia in 2025, the initiative is set to expand, with plans to partner with up to 150 institutions. Additional efforts, including AV Career Days and proposed vocational pathways beginning in 2027, are intended to create clearer entry points from education into AV careers.

Innovation is the second focus area. Building on Innovation Park at ISE 2026, which hosted 130 startups, the Foundation will provide post-event continuity through mentorship, investor engagement and expanded industry networking. The goal is to support early-stage companies as they move from proof of concept to commercial viability, strengthening long-term technology development within the sector.

The third pillar centers on social impact. The Foundation is developing collaborations with organizations including Hospital Sant Joan de Déu, Associació Cívica La Nau and Fundació Joan Miró, as well as projects connected to Casa Batlló. These partnerships are designed to apply AV technologies to initiatives in healthcare, education and cultural engagement.

“The ISE Foundation formalises our commitment to the AV sector while strengthening ties with our host city,” said 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, further ensuring our impact is meaningful, sustainable, and beneficial for both professionals and the wider region.”

“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,” said David Labuskes, CTS, CAE, RCDD, Chief Executive Officer of AVIXA. “As the global trade association for the AV industry, our mission is to advance the profession – and efforts like this are essential to shaping its future.”

Daryl Friedman, Global President & CEO of CEDIA adds: “The launch of the ISE Foundation reflects CEDIA’s commitment to growing our industry through nurturing new professionals and companies, while ensuring a sustainable environment. CEDIA is proud to help lead this effort to secure the future of AV and system integration.”

Additional details regarding governance and program timelines are expected in the coming months as the Foundation moves into implementation.