New for 2026
For 2026, Mountain Connect has redesigned the conference experience to create faster discovery, higher-value meetings, and real outcomes. Here’s what’s new this year.
Hosted Buyer Program
The Hosted Buyer Program is designed to connect solution providers with ISPs that have active network build plans and purchasing intent within the next six months, in a structured, buyer-controlled environment.
This is not a volume-based meeting program.
It is a high-intent access model built on qualification, relevance, and trust.
New Exhibit Hall Layout: Main Street + High Street
Our redesigned floor plan is built to improve visibility, traffic flow, and connection. A central Main Street runs through the exhibit hall, lined with exhibitors, networking lounges, and gathering spaces designed to encourage meaningful conversations. Food and beverage service anchors both ends of Main Street, while additional lounge and dining areas throughout the hall create natural opportunities for attendees to stop, meet, and engage with sponsors and peers.
BrainDate Lounge
“Turn conversations into decisions.”
A curated lounge where you book focused 1:1 or small-group conversations with the people who can help you solve real challenges—whether you’re planning a network build, evaluating solutions, or navigating funding. Every discussion is intentional, relevant, and designed to move you forward.
Roundtables
Host or join facilitated roundtable discussions designed for real problem-solving and stronger peer connections.
AI Matchmaking
We’ve built AI Matchmaking into the Mountain Connect experience to help you connect with the people who matter most.
When you register, you’ll answer a short set of interest-based questions about your role, priorities, and what you’re looking to accomplish. From there, our system identifies high-value connections across attendees, exhibitors, and Hosted Buyers.
You’ll receive personalized match recommendations directly in the conference app—making it easy to:
Identify who you should meet
Schedule time in advance
Maximize every moment on-site
Whether you’re building networks, sourcing solutions, or forming partnerships, AI Matchmaking ensures you’re spending time with the right people—not just more people.