The creative industries in the age of AI

Few topics are currently moving the creative industries as much as artificial intelligence - and the resulting digital economy. New business models are emerging and existing ones are changing. 2026 GCES is focussing on this transformation:

Where do we stand as an industry? What can we learn from each other? And what political framework conditions do we need to remain economically and socially effective?

From generative AI to blockchain, from automated content production to the platform economy: artificial intelligence is changing job profiles, processes and value chains - with far-reaching consequences. Creative professionals are actively shaping this change: Publishers, agencies, design and games studios and many other companies are already using AI successfully.

These developments reveal a tense relationship:

• Solo freelancers are faced with the challenge of reacting to complex technological developments with limited resources and at the same time need protection for their intellectual property and fair remuneration.
• Small and medium-sized enterprises are caught between the pressure to innovate and risk management. They need to build up AI expertise, invest in new processes and at the same time safeguard their core business. Without targeted support, they risk being at a competitive disadvantage compared to financially stronger players in the tech industry and platform economy.
• Start-ups and established companies with capital and a technological edge are using AI to open up new markets, scale up work processes and radically rethink business models. But this also raises ethical questions: how can innovation be combined with fairness, transparency and the protection of creative work?

The GCES 2026 sheds light on this area of tension. It offers space for pioneering guiding principles and provides inspiration on how AI can be used confidently, fairly and creatively. The cross-industry dialogue forms the basis for this. Because one thing is clear: the future will be shaped by the creative industries.

Policy

What political framework conditions does the creative industry need in the age of AI?

The track sheds light on the relationship between regulation and innovation - with a focus on the protection of creative work, intellectual property rights and the question of how systems can be democratically legitimised, fairly implemented and controlled. International examples, particularly from Europe, show alternative approaches and emphasise the need for a close connection between the creative industries and digital policy.

Markets & Capital

What do sustainable business models and financing structures look like?

AI-based business models, platform strategies and community-driven formats are opening up new markets - but also require sustainable financing. The track highlights the challenges and potential of investments, funding models and market access - in the area of conflict between purpose, platform and profit.

Creative Futures

How are artificial intelligence and digital tools changing educational pathways, job profiles and work processes?

This is about the future of creative work: What skills will the next generation need? How are training paths changing? What role do universities, networks and funding organisations play in sustainable industry development? And how can new approaches and diverse talents be attracted to the industry?

Impact

How can the creative industries actively contribute to solving social challenges?

The creative industries are drivers of social transformation - from ecological sustainability to social innovation and democratic participation. The track shows how digital tools enable change, which alliances are necessary and how cities, regions and international systems can benefit from the creative industries.