Overview
The Data Makers Fest (DMF) is set to return for its next edition, scheduled for May 4-6, 2026, in Porto, Portugal. This three-day festival is designed for individuals who work with data, including data scientists, engineers, machine learning practitioners, AI researchers, and data leaders. DMF aims to create a collaborative environment where industry and academia converge to share knowledge, tools, and innovations in the field of data science.
Background & Relevance
As the demand for data-driven insights continues to grow, events like Data Makers Fest play a crucial role in fostering community engagement among data professionals. The festival not only highlights the latest advancements in machine learning and AI but also emphasizes practical applications across various sectors. By bringing together a diverse audience from academia, startups, corporations, and public institutions, DMF serves as a platform for knowledge exchange and professional growth.
Key Details
- Event Dates: May 4-6, 2026
- Location: Porto, Portugal
- Expected Attendance: 1,000+ data professionals
- Topics Covered:
- Core Machine Learning: classical and deep learning algorithms, forecasting, recommendation systems, and more.
- Generative AI & LLMs: fine-tuning, prompt engineering, and agentic AI.
- Engineering: pipelines, orchestration, and model monitoring.
- Analytics & Visualization: dashboards and self-service BI.
- Responsible AI & Safety: fairness, explainability, and compliance.
- Frontiers: emerging topics in the industry such as causal ML and federated learning.
- Domain Applications: case studies from sectors like health and finance.
- Leadership: data product management and organizational change.
- Application Links: Application Guidelines, Apply Here
Eligibility & Participation
DMF invites speakers from both academia and industry to submit their proposals. Presentations can include previously published work, provided they are tailored for a practitioner audience. This opportunity is ideal for those looking to share their insights and innovations with a large community of data professionals.
Submission or Application Guidelines
Interested speakers should follow these steps to apply:
1. Prepare your talk proposal based on the outlined topics.
2. Submit your proposal by October 30, 2025.
3. Await the evaluation decision, which will be communicated by November 30, 2025.
4. Confirm your participation by December 10, 2025.
Additional Context / Real-World Relevance
The Data Makers Fest is more than just a conference; it is a celebration of the data community’s creativity and innovation. With the rapid evolution of AI and machine learning technologies, events like DMF provide essential insights into current trends and future directions. The festival’s focus on practical applications ensures that participants leave with actionable knowledge that can be applied in their respective fields.
Conclusion
Data Makers Fest 2026 presents a unique opportunity for data professionals to showcase their work and connect with peers. Interested individuals are encouraged to apply, share their ideas, and contribute to the vibrant discussion on the future of data science and AI. Join the movement and be part of this exciting festival in Porto!
Category: Conferences & Workshops
Tags: data science, machine learning, generative ai, responsible ai, data engineering, data visualization, analytics, AI research, Porto, Data Makers Fest
