SHERIDAN, WYOMING - March 24, 2026 - digitalBAU 2026 opens today in Cologne with artificial intelligence positioned as a strategic key technology for the construction industry. The trade fair, running from March 24 to 26 at the Koelnmesse exhibition center, brings together around 300 exhibitors and features more than 60 lectures and panel discussions across four stages. With a supporting program that includes the German Construction Award 2026, Innovation Parcours, and Guided Tours, the event offers architects, planners, and construction professionals a comprehensive platform for evaluating how AI and digital tools are reshaping day-to-day workflows in the sector.
Four Key Topics Frame the Exhibition Floor
This edition of digitalBAU is organized around four thematic pillars: circular economy in the construction industry, digital optimization of construction processes, use of artificial intelligence in construction, and digitalization in existing buildings. Among the approximately 300 exhibitors are established industry players including Hottgenroth, ISD, Nemetschek, ORCA, RIB, Trimble, and Würth. The breadth of the exhibitor base reflects the degree to which digital solutions have moved from early-adopter territory into mainstream construction practice, spanning software, hardware, and integrated workflow platforms.
Forum Program Centers on AI Applications in Planning and On-Site Operations
The accompanying forum program spans four stages - the Main Stage, Neo Stage, Exhibitor Stage, and Start-up Stage - and places artificial intelligence at the center of its programming. Matthias Pfeifer from the Architektenkammer Nordrhein-Westfalen will discuss the potential and prospects of AI in planning on March 25 at 10:30 on the Neo Stage. Thomas Wortmann from the ICD at the University of Stuttgart will address the importance of AI for architecture on March 26 at 10:00 on the Main Stage. On the same day, Sigrid Brell-Cokcan from RWTH Aachen University will outline how AI and robotics are transforming the construction site in a Main Stage presentation at 12:30. These sessions offer decision-makers concrete reference points for assessing where AI delivers operational value in planning and execution.
German Construction Award 2026 Recognizes Eight Winners
digitalBAU serves as the venue for the German Construction Award 2026, presented by Deutsche Bauverlag on the first day of the fair at 16:00 on the Main Stage. Eight winners will be recognized from more than 200 submissions across categories including construction companies of various sizes, circular construction, construction in existing buildings, simple construction, AI and automation, and occupational health and safety. The inclusion of AI and automation as a standalone award category signals the technology's growing institutional recognition within the German construction sector.
Young Professionals Honored in Digital Construction Competition
On March 25 at 14:00, the RKW Competence Center will present awards in the competition "Built on IT - Construction Professions with a Future" on the Neo Stage. The competition recognizes young construction professionals across the categories of civil engineering, construction process management, architecture, and crafts and technology. For operators and firms investing in workforce development, the initiative highlights how digital competencies are becoming a defining qualification in the next generation of construction talent.
Innovation Parcours and Guided Tours Offer Hands-On Technology Access
The Innovation Parcours in Hall 8 provides visitors with the opportunity to test technologies directly, including AI-based construction documentation, automated time tracking, millimeter-precise measuring and visualization tools, and precise surface printing of motifs and graphics. This hands-on format allows professionals to evaluate tools in a practical context rather than relying solely on vendor presentations. In addition, two specialist Guided Tours of the exhibition area take place daily in partnership with Heinze Architecture Verlag, with registration available through the digitalBAU website.
Founders Fight Night Returns for Second Edition
Following its successful premiere at the previous digitalBAU, the Founders Fight Night returns on March 25 at 16:00 on the Start-up Stage. Startup companies deliver short pitches in a boxing ring format, with the audience selecting the winner by show of hands. The format provides early-stage construction technology companies with direct exposure to a specialist trade audience and gives attendees a curated view of emerging solutions entering the market.
"digitalBAU impressively demonstrates how indispensable digital solutions are for the future of construction. Alongside the innovative products of the exhibitors, the supporting program in particular offers valuable stimulus and orientation for the practical transfer of knowledge in the industry."
Exhibition Director Cornelia Lutz underscored the event's role as both a marketplace and a knowledge platform for the construction sector. The fourth edition of digitalBAU takes place at the Koelnmesse exhibition center in Hall 8, accessible via the North Entrance.