The 2026 MIT Research and Development Conference, Curiosity on a Mission: Accelerating from Discovery to Real-World Impact, convenes leaders from academia, industry, government, and startups to explore how breakthrough research can be translated into deployed, high-impact systems at unprecedented speed. The program spans policy, defense, construction, artificial intelligence, space systems, and emerging technologies, highlighting both the opportunities and constraints of scaling innovation in complex, real-world environments. Through keynotes, cross-sector panels, and startup showcases, the conference emphasizes the interplay between foundational science, system-level engineering, and institutional frameworks—examining how advances in computation, materials, sensing, and biology are reshaping industries from infrastructure to healthcare. Across sessions, a unifying theme emerges: accelerating innovation requires not only technical breakthroughs, but coordinated progress in policy, production, and deployment to deliver meaningful societal and economic impact.
Join us in-person or online
Experience the annual MIT Research and Development Conference live on the MIT campus. In-person attendees will enjoy cutting-edge technical presentations from leading MIT faculty, concurrent technology tracks, lightning talks and exhibits featuring MIT-connected startups, MIT campus and laboratory tours, and networking opportunities with members of the global ILP community.
Unable to join us in Cambridge? Participate online through the conference livestream.
Exclusive ILP Member Benefit: Whether attending in person or online, ILP members receive complimentary access to all ILP events worldwide.
- ILP Member: Complimentary
- Current MIT Faculty/Staff/Student: Complimentary
- General Public: $1,750 $2,750 for Hybrid (In-Person & Livestream) | $475 $775 for Livestream Access only | Early bird rates available until Sept. 30
- Startup Exchange Company: Complimentary
* MIT Alum, Sloan Exec Ed, and Professional Education Member: 70% discount Send an email for a discount code.
* MIT Startup Exchange Member: Send an email for a comp code.
To begin your registration, please select your registration type.
* Not sure which registration type applies to you? Email us to confirm your eligibility.