Integrated Systems Europe (ISE) has announced the launch of the ISE Foundation, a new industry-led initiative aimed at creating lasting benefits for the AV and systems integration ecosystem. Beyond the annual exhibition, the Foundation will enable year-round programmes that connect industry professionals, support emerging startups, and strengthen local community initiatives in Barcelona and Catalonia.
Established alongside its co-owners, AVIXA and CEDIA, and supported by the Barcelona City Council and the Government of Catalonia, the Foundation creates a formal structure to extend ISE’s contribution to the industry well beyond the four days of the annual exhibition.
Announced on the opening day of ISE 2026 under the theme “Powering On, Together”, the Foundation marks a strategic evolution of the show’s role within the AV ecosystem. Moving beyond a yearly gathering for the channel, ISE is joining with both AVIXA and CEDIA to deliver a year-round program for workforce development, startup acceleration, and industry-led social impact. The announcement was made at a press conference attended by Mike Blackman, Managing Director of Integrated Systems Events; David Labuskes, CTS, CAE, RCDD, Chief Executive Officer of AVIXA; Daryl Friedman, Global President & CEO of CEDIA; Raquel Gil, Deputy Mayor of Barcelona; and Miquel Sàmper, Minister for Business and Labour for the Government of Catalonia, highlighting the shared commitment of both industry leaders and local institutions to the Foundation’s long-term impact.
A central pillar of the Foundation is talent development. Skills shortages continue to challenge manufacturers, integrators and service providers across the AV landscape, and the Foundation aims to address this gap through structured, scalable initiatives. Its Training the Trainers programme equips educators with industry-aligned AV competencies using curricula developed by AVIXA and CEDIA. Following a successful AVIXA pilot in Catalonia in 2025, the programme is now set to expand significantly, with plans to partner with up to 150 institutions. Complementary initiatives, including AV Career Days and the planned introduction of industry-aligned vocational pathways from 2027, are designed to create a clearer and more direct route from education into employment within the AV sector.
Further details regarding governance, programme rollout and operational timelines will be announced in the coming months as the ISE Foundation moves into its implementation phase.
For More Information: https://www.iseurope.org/
