Request for Proposals for the 2026 AIN Global Conference - Rimini, Italy

Join us on the stunning Adriatic Coast as we gather in Rimini, Italy for our annual in-person conference!

Click here to return to the main conference page. 

Conference Dates & Learning Journey Dates:

Conference Dates: Thursday, October 22nd - Sunday, October 25th, 2026

Learning Journey Dates: Wednesday, October 21st and Thursday, October 22nd, 2026

Accepting submissions from Friday, March 13th until Monday, June 1st.

Before you fill out the form, please:

• read the theme description and think about how your topic can contribute
• read the selection criteria to understand the selection process
• select the format that best suits your experience
• take your time to fill out the form as the form contains detailed questions about your program/proposal

RFP Links: 

Click here to submit your proposal. (Accepting from: Friday, March 13th until Monday, June 1st.)

Click here to read the RFP questions before submitting.

Click here to view our RFP Rubric.

Our Conference Theme: The Art of Being Human 

In the vibrant streets of Rimini, where Commedia dell’Arte once tore up the rulebook, our theme—The Art of Being Human—is a high-spirited invitation to reclaim our spontaneity from a world obsessed with "optimization." While algorithms and rigid protocols try to script our every move, Applied Improvisation reminds us that the best parts of life happen off-book.

We’re trading the safety of a fixed script for the spark of the canovaccio (the scenario), shifting from functioning like efficient machines to thriving as present, creative beings. By celebrating the messy beauty of the "mistake" and the magic of radical listening, we’re reclaiming our "Human Edge." After all, in leadership, learning, and life, the most meaningful work isn't found in a manual—it’s an improvised art.

Why Present at AIN?

While our presenters are volunteers, the rewards of sharing your work at our conference extend far beyond the session itself. When you present at AIN, you are doing more than just giving a talk—you are shaping the future of our field.

The AIN Presenter Experience:

• A World-Class Platform: Share your insights research or techniques with a global audience of dedicated practitioners and thought leaders. 
• Deepen Your Practice: The process of preparing a session for the AIN community often leads to new breakthroughs in your own work through high-level peer feedback.
• Grow Your Network: Presenters are often sought out for further collaboration, guest spots and professional opportunities within our international network. 
• Contribute to the Commons: Help build the collective body of knowledge that keeps our organization, vibrant, innovative, and impactful. 
• Visibility & Recognition: Your session will be featured in our conference program and promotional materials establishing you as a key voice in the AIN community. 

Expectations for Presenters

AIN is a vibrant community fueled by the passion of our members. To keep our gatherings sustainable and collaborative, please note the following guidelines for our Call for Proposals:

• Volunteer Spirit: As AIN is a volunteer-led organization, we cannot offer financial compensation or travel honorariums for presenters.
• Registration: To ensure a cohesive experience for all attendees, all selected presenters are required to register for the conference.
• Presenter Perk: As a thank you for your contribution, all confirmed presenters will be eligible for the Early Bird registration rate, regardless of when they register. Please note that if your proposal is not selected, we are unable to extend this discounted rate past the deadline.
• Media Consent: By submitting your proposal, you grant AIN permission to photograph, film, or record your session for archival, non-commercial and promotional purposes.

We get many more great offers than we can accommodate. Selection will be based on a variety of things, including balanced offerings. We are committed to creating a diverse and exciting program that will expand our expertise in the field, inspire our work in co-creating a more humane society and healthier planet, and invite us to redefine what’s possible with Applied Improvisation in our ever-changing times. We look forward to receiving your proposal!

RFP FAQs:

Please read the following answers to frequently asked questions about our RFPs. If you have general conference questions, visit our main FAQs.

Q: What is the difference between a Learning Journey and a standard workshop/AIN Talk?

A: Think of Learning Journey sessions as deep-dive immersions. They take place before the main conference (Oct 21–22) and last a half or full day, focusing on skill-building and community bonding.

Workshops are shorter, 90 minutes, during the main conference and must include specific interactive components (1:1, small group, and large group).

AIN Talks are high-impact, 8-minute "TED-style" presentations designed to share a singular powerful idea or research with the entire assembly.

Q: How long are the session slots?

A: It depends on the session format.

Learning Journey sessions: Half-day or full-day intensives (with a break for lunch).

Workshops: 60-minute or 90-minute blocks.

AIN Talks: 8 minutes.

Q: Can I submit more than one proposal?

A: Yes, and while we encourage you to focus on your most "specialized" and polished idea, you are welcome to submit multiple proposals. However, please note that our review team aims for a diverse range of voices, and we typically prioritize depth and specificity over broad, general topics.

Q: Can I edit or make any changes to my proposal after submitting?

A: Once a proposal is submitted, it enters our review process. If you have a critical update, please contact the review team directly. We recommend polishing your "story" and specific techniques thoroughly before hitting submit! And please refrain from adding any co-facilitators or co-presenters after submitting your proposal. 

Q: I have a great idea that doesn't fit these formats—can I still share it?

A: Absolutely! We host in-person Open Spaces during the conference. These slots are not pre-programmed; you can pitch your topics or offers directly on the spot to interested attendees.

Q: How do I propose an Open Space session?

A: Open Space sessions will happen on Sunday, October 25th. There is no formal application process; anyone can propose an offer in the moment on the spot.

More FAQs to be added! If you'd like to reach out and ask any questions, please email us at [email protected].

Click here to return to the main conference page.

Click here to submit your proposal.