Putting the human first - for real!
Highlights from the Inaugural APA Summit
2026 APA Summit Theme
Phygital Futures: Driving Innovation for Resilience and Connectivity
As the boundaries between the physical and digital worlds continue to blur, the phygital economy has emerged as a dynamic frontier for innovation, resilience, and global connectivity. Understanding and mastering this convergence is not merely an opportunity but a necessity for leaders and thinkers shaping tomorrow's economies.
Following the resounding success of the 2025 edition, where participants collaborated on cutting-edge ideas and produced transformative insights, Phygital Futures 2026 invites you to join an inspiring journey in the heart of Paris on February 26-27, 2026. With vibrant discussions, hands-on workshops, and collaborative publishing initiatives, the summit is designed to transform attendees from knowledge consumers into active knowledge producers.
This year’s theme builds upon the momentum of our last edition, focusing on how innovation in the phygital space can foster resilient economies, enhanced innovation, and connected communities. We welcome topics that explore the intersection of technology, human experience, and economic growth, as well as the ways in which digital tools enhance physical experiences to create sustainable, inclusive systems.
Attendees will engage in immersive sessions spanning a range of critical topics, such as:
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Designing exceptional phygital customer journeys
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Leveraging AI and data analytics for personalization and engagement.
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Building resilient ecosystems through innovative connectivity.
Set in the iconic city of Paris—a global hub of culture, business, and innovation—Phygital Futures 2026 aims to bridge the gap between academia and industry, inviting leaders, thinkers, and innovators to collaborate and produce impactful work. Alongside dynamic panels, keynotes, and workshops, participants will draft thought pieces and practical frameworks, ensuring that their contributions extend far beyond the summit itself.
This is your opportunity to be at the forefront of the phygital transformation, to share your voice, and to shape the conversation.
Attendees are required to register through the Registration Package (packaged gala and summit), which ensures access to all sessions as well as an exclusive gala event designed to foster deeper connections and spark new ideas.
Key Dates
May 20, 2025: Abstract Proposal Submission Deadline
July 2, 2025: Notification of Acceptances
August 15, 2025: Early Bird Registration Ends
February 26, 2026: Executive Workshop & Opening Reception
February 27, 2026: Full-Day Authorship Summit
Registration Fees
Early-Bird Registration Package: $1,562 USD (ends on August 15)
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Opening reception, all-day summit keynotes, workshops, lunch, and coffee breaks – $987
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Luxury gala dinner – $575
Regular Registration Package: $2,035 USD
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Opening reception, all-day summit keynotes, workshops, lunch, and coffee breaks – $1,285
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Luxury gala dinner – $750
3 Exciting Workshop Formats
Choose your workshop and apply before May 20 for learning, networking, publishing, and contributing to the phygital community.
Executive Workshop – Certification & Collaborative Publishing
What You’ll Achieve: Gain certification in phygital experience design and collaborate with academics to publish impactful research. Transform from knowledge consumer to knowledge producer!
Key Features:
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Day 1 - Hands-on sessions on phygital innovation strategies.
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Day 2 - Collaboration with academics to draft and publish.
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Open to executives & industry leaders aiming to enhance their expertise in the phygital economy.
Abstract Submission Deadline: May 20, 2025.
Chaired "Author-to-Publish" Workshop – Chaired Track
What You’ll Achieve: Advance phygital science with guided publishing in prestigious ‘A’ journals. Collaborate with academics to draft innovative research concepts and present them to the APA Summit Scientific Committee.
Key Features:
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Led by senior academic chair and a groupe of 8-10 members.
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Requires co-authored articles with a minimum of 8 authors to qualify as a chaired track.
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Advanced research papers.
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Select one of the 12 thematic topics for submission.
Abstract Submission Deadline: May 20, 2025.
Regular "Author-to-Publish" Workshop – Open Track
What You’ll Achieve: Explore phygital advancements while writing and refining research for publication. Open to professionals and academics from diverse fields.
Key Features:
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Open to all profiles and levels.
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Only solo-authorship abstract proposal should be submitted.
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Also includes early-stage research projects.
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Select one of the 12 thematic topics for submission.
Abstract Submission Deadline: May 20, 2025.
Showcase Your Expertise on a Global Stage
Publish groundbreaking ideas with top academic journals and leading American business publishers at the APA Summit
International Journal of Tourism Research
Submit to a Prestigious Academic Journal: ABDC-A Ranked, ABS Level 2, by US-based publisher John Wiley & Sons. Contribute to the Special Issue on 'Phygital Tourism' to shape the future of technology integration and tourism innovation. Explore the call for papers here.
The Service Industries Journal
Submit to a Prestigious Academic Journal: ABDC-A Ranked, ABS Level 2, by UK-based publisher T&F. Contribute to the Special Issue on 'Phygital Service Economy' to shape the future of technology integration and service innovation. Explore the call for papers here.
Phygital Business Review (PBR)
PBR is a unique business publication with a focus on phygital business innovations. This publication outlet offers evidence-based research for firms embarking on a phygital transformation. Articles published in PBR highlight corporate strategies, innovation, the interaction between humans and technology, and the societal impact as part of the new phygital business model.
Upcoming A-Ranked Academic Journal Announcement!
APA Summit Program - Feb. 26-27
Thursday, February 26
9:00 AM - 12:30 PM
Certified Executive Workshop Morning Session
Open exclusively to approved participants
12:30 PM - 2:00 PM
Exclusive VIP Lunch. Connect with top thought leaders during this private networking lunch
2:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Afternoon Session - Certified Executive Workshop. Open exclusively to approved participants
6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Registration & Opening Cocktail Reception - Open to all APA delegates
IMPORTANT REMINDER!
Please note that the summit is set in the prestigious 16th arrondissement of Paris, near the iconic Eiffel Tower. Participants can expect a VIP welcome, and adherence to a dress code of formal elegance is requested.
Friday, February 27
9:00 AM - 9:30 AM
Welcome Gourmet Coffee
9:30 AM - 10:45 AM
Plenary Keynote Roundtable - Industry-Academia Panel Discussion
10:45 AM - 11:00 AM
Gourmet Coffee Break
11:00 AM - 12:30 PM
Morning session - “Author to Publish” Workshops: Academic and non-academic participants draft their articles, which will be pitched to the scientific committee by the end of the day
12:30 PM - 2:00 PM
Gastronomic Lunch
2:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Afternoon Breakout “Author to Publish” Workshop Sessions
4:00 PM - 4:15 PM
Gourmet Coffee Break
4:15 PM - 5:00 PM
Pitch Your Idea: Participants present their article project to a panel of global experts.
7:00 PM - Midnight
Luxury Gala Dinner & Awards Ceremony
APA Summit Overview
Submission Process
The Author-to-Publish and Executive Workshops serve as premier platforms to drive phygital science innovation and business transformation. Designed to cater to senior academics, professionals, and individuals of all levels, these workshops offer remarkable opportunities for publication, skill development, and recognition through awards. Applications close on May 20, 2025. Submissions are officially open!
Summit Registration
Ensure your participation in the summit! All accepted tracks and their members must complete their registration by paying the fees. Failure to do so will result in exclusion from the summit, losing the opportunity to benefit from academic 'A' journals and prestigious business publication outlets. Registration opens in July. Early bird registration ends on August 15, 2025. Don’t miss out!
Hotel Booking
We are excited to offer our summit participants a stay at a high-end luxury hotel located in the chic 16th arrondissement of Paris, a stone’s throw away from the iconic Eiffel Tower. We have successfully negotiated a special APA Summit rate exclusively for our members. This rate includes not only your stay but also a delightful breakfast to start your day and a VIP concierge service for your convenience. Please note that rooms are limited, so we encourage early booking to secure your spot.
Become a Phygitaler
Join APA and embrace the future of phygital transformation. As a member, you’ll gain access to resources like the Phygital Business Review (PBR), exclusive research findings, and invitations to premium events. Connect with leading phygital experts, open doors to collaboration, and enhance your career within our innovative community. Welcome to APA, where we foster positive change and propel the phygital world forward.
Connecting a Global Community: 20+ Nations Represented
Luxury Gala Dinner
Grand Finale: A Michelin-starred gala dinner and jubilant DJ party, celebrating the phygitalers community with prestigious awards for exceptional contributions.
The Phygitalers Summit Venue: Where Luxury Meets Elegance
The APA Summit unfolds in the heart of Paris's prestigious 16th arrondissement. This exclusive location, only revealed to attendees, promises an unforgettable experience of luxury and elegance. Create lasting memories under the shadow of the iconic Eiffel Tower, and join us for a transformative event that celebrates the rise of the Phygitalers community!
Glimpse into APA Summit Experience
Empowering Your Phygital Journey
APA, your guide in the phygital realm, tackles today’s challenges and future integrations of the physical and digital worlds. We’re committed to making a significant impact on complex phygital issues. No matter your background or experience, APA is your resource hub, offering a wide range of tools, advanced research, quality training, outstanding high-end events, and a thriving community to boost your phygital career.
American Phygital Association Mission
APA is a unique hub for the phygital community, with members from various sectors across the globe united by phygital exploration. As a leading organization in the U.S., APA promotes phygital science growth and application. We aim to integrate physical and digital worlds for enhanced innovation and societal benefit.
APA Training & Certification Programs
The APA Training & Certification Programs, in alliance with BXDM Academy™, offer globally recognized qualifications and tailored training. The programs are results-oriented and scientifically backed.
Phygitaler Community Membership
APA is a leading organization in the phygital field, with a diverse community of over 1,572 members. We’re dedicated to integrating physical and digital worlds in a human-centric way to positively impact society and enhance creativity and innovation.
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