NeoCon, the leading platform for commercial interiors, will officially open its 2027 Call for Programming on October 28. Taking place at The Mart in Chicago from Sunday, June 13 through Wednesday, June 16, 2027, the 58th edition invites industry disruptors, visionary experts, and prominent voices to submit proposals for NeoCon Talks, Continuing Education Units (CEUs), and interactive workshops.

New for 2027, the Call for Programming includes an expanded submission opportunity for lighting innovation in alignment with the return of Illuminate at NeoCon—a special exhibition dedicated to architectural, technical, and decorative lighting. Selected lighting programming will be featured in dedicated Spotlight Sessions as part of the NeoCon Talks lineup.

Building on NeoCon’s commitment to discovery and education, topics for this year’s event will span design, adaptive and multi-generational environments, artificial intelligence (AI), and the interplay between technology, culture, and wellness, across a range of categories, including workplace, healthcare, hospitality, public space, lighting, wellness, technology, sustainability, and inclusion. All applications must be submitted online by January 18, 2027.

“NeoCon is dedicated to bringing together thought leaders, visionaries, and emerging voices to explore the rapidly evolving design landscape,” says Lisa Simonian, Vice President and Head of Trade Shows. “As technology and user experience transform commercial spaces, we’re looking forward to exploring what’s next and hosting inspiring discussions that help our industry navigate the future.”

Proposals may be submitted in four formats: 

• Virtual CEU Sessions
  • Pre-recorded, 60-minute sessions delivering high-value education on emerging trends, global case studies, innovative practices, and more. Approved by IDCEC and AIA, these CEUs will be available on-demand via the NeoCon Learning Hub starting Sunday, June 13, and through December 31.
• On-Site CEU Sessions
  • Live, 60-minute sessions held on Monday and Tuesday during NeoCon designed to foster engagement and real-time discussion. Approved by IDCEC and AIA, these sessions will also be recorded and available as Virtual CEUs.
• Workshops
  • Longer-format (60-90-minute) in-person sessions held Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday during NeoCon that provide hands-on learning and spark live engagement.
• NeoCon Talks & Spotlights Session — in partnership with AZURE and Lytei
  • Sharing the stage on the 7th Floor Exhibit Hall on June 14 and 15, these fast-paced, “TED-style” sessions deliver fresh insights and bold ideas designed to spark innovation and drive meaningful change. The program features presentations from emerging influencers and established thought leaders exploring forward-thinking design concepts, including a focus on how light shapes space, mood, performance, and experience. All sessions will be recorded and made available post-show via the NeoCon Program Library.

For additional details and submission guidelines, please click HERE.

Image courtesy of NeoCon