IE University Announces IEStrat 2026, a Global Research Conference on Strategy in the Age of AI, and Opens Call for Academic Papers

IE University has opened a call for papers for IEStrat 2026, the inaugural global academic workshop for scholars specializing in business strategy. The event will take place May 20-22 at IE Tower in Madrid.

Under the theme "Strategy in the Age of AI," the workshop will bring together international experts to explore the strategic challenges organizations face amid rapid technological transformation and profound geopolitical shifts. 

Researchers will also share their views on how artificial intelligence – whether enabled by machine learning or generative AI – is transforming strategic decision-making, organizational design, business models, and industry dynamics. IEStrat 2026 will provide a forum for reflection, debate, and knowledge generation around the major strategic challenges companies and organizations face today. 

Call for Papers

The organizing committee of IEStrat 2026 invites scholars worldwide to submit full papers or extended abstracts that engage with core questions in strategic management. Submissions may examine themes such as the impact of AI on innovation, competitive advantage, organizational capabilities, or strategic decision‑making across established firms and entrepreneurial settings. Submissions are open until March 1 via the IE Strategy Workshop website.

"Rapid technological and organizational change is profoundly transforming the field of strategy, influencing how companies compete, develop capabilities, and create value. This academic workshop will energize global debate and foster knowledge exchange among leading international strategy scholars," said Juan Santaló, Vice‑Rector of Faculty & Research at IE University.

"IEStrat 2026 will advance strategic thinking at a time of profound technological change by encouraging critical reflection across established and emerging areas of strategy," noted Mariano Mastrogiorgio, Chair of the Strategy Area at IE Business School.

The IEStrat 2026 program will include masterclasses by experts such as Cameron Buckner (University of Florida) and Prithwiraj Choudhury (London School of Economics), presentations by researchers, and workshops for PhD candidates, who will also have the opportunity to present their research. 

To confirm attendance at IEStrat 2026, please contact danilo.messinese@ie.edu.