A look-back at BeGeo 2026: geo-intelligence for a resilient future

BeGeo 2026 was the ninth time the event had been held and the programme this time was particularly strong. Both the conference programme and the exhibition focused on geo-innovation for security and defence. The fact that this year’s event coincided with the 50th anniversary of the NGI also gave it a celebratory touch.

Watch the highlights of BeGeo 2026 in the aftermovie.

Under the heading ‘Geo-intelligence for a resilient future’, BeGeo offered a rich programme of inspiring speakers, thematic sessions and interactive demonstrations. Once again, governments, researchers, companies and associations met again at Brussels Expo and shared their vision of the future of geo-information.

Smart geodata for Defence innovation

The day began with an invitation-only executive breakfast, where the Minister of Defence Theo Francken addressed the BeGeo partners, industry CEOs and the representatives of the Ministry of Defence. He stressed the importance of accurate, real-time geolocation and of continuous innovation to boost defence capabilities. “Today, geo-innovation today is no longer a luxury, but a strategic necessity. By investing in satellite data, sensors and AI, we are not only strengthening the security of our operations, but at the same time building Belgium’s technological lead.” After his contribution over breakfast, the Minister also took time to visit Defence’s stand at the fair and to talk with some of the exhibitors.

A thematic track was entirely devoted to geo-innovation for security and defence. A panel of speakers called on start-ups and scale-ups to develop innovative geo-solutions in response to some of the geospatial challenges being faced by Defence, in order to play their part in ensuring a more resilient Belgium. During the morning session, the BE Defence Launchpad was presented by VITO. This is an initiative that brings start-ups, research institutions, investors, companies and Defence together to accelerate the development and testing of dual-use technologies. With a particular focus on geodata, satellite applications and spatial analysis, the presentation highlighted how Belgium’s innovation ecosystem has the potential to contribute towards new defence capabilities. The afternoon session highlighted how geo-intelligence supports Defence by facilitating analyses, advanced geo-informatics and different types of mapping.

Plenary insights

During the opening plenary session, Ingrid Vanden Berghe, Administrator General of NGI, was the first speaker who took to the floor. She extended a warm welcome to everyone. “Governments, researchers, companies and international players meet at BeGeo, share their knowledge and explore new collaborations that help society advance. We are also proud to be able to welcome so many key partners once again.”

After that, Nicholas Brown of the UN-GGCE (UN Global Geodetic Centre of Excellence) took to the floor to lay out in specific terms the role and importance of geodesy in our society. The systems on which our economy, infrastructure and security depend rely on a robust geodetic foundation, which the NGI and its international partners maintain.

The plenary opening session ended with an inspiring video message from Prince Emmanuel de Merode, the director of the Virunga National Park. He emphasised how much park management depends on robust navigation systems based on accurate geospatial information. That foundation is essential in order to respond to environmental and security challenges.

The many faces of geo-intelligence

The thematic tracks at BeGeo 2026 provided participants with a deeper understanding of various aspects of geo-information, ranging from defence and security and crisis coordination to geodesy, geo in unexpected places, sustainable development goals (SDGs) and open data. No fewer than 60 speakers took to the floor and brought the world of geo-information to life in the form of engaging presentations.

In between sessions, exhibitors from a variety of organisations were available to network, exchange ideas and demonstrate solutions. As over 900 people took part in BeGeo, they could count on a great many curious listeners.

BeGeo 2026 not only provided an opportunity to gain new insights and make valuable contacts, but also underscored the ever-increasing impact of geo-information in our society. By hosting this one-day event, we took another step together on the journey towards a safer, more resilient future, in which geo-information plays a key role.

BeGeo Awards as a way of recognising valuable initiatives

For the second time, the conference programme at BeGeo concluded with the BeGeo Awards. By granting these awards, the organisation aims to encourage inspiring initiatives that strengthen the development of geo-intelligence in the service of a resilient society. You can find a list of the categories and winners here.

This successful day ended with an enjoyable reception and a birthday cake for the NGI. Curious about NGI’s plans for this anniversary year? Find out all about them on the website ngi50ign.be

The organising team of BeGeo 2026 would like to thank all participants, speakers, exhibitors and partners who contributed towards this successful celebratory edition. We look forward to seeing you again in 2028 for the tenth edition of BeGeo!