AGIT 2026: International Geoinformatics Community discusses the future of GeoAI and Earth Observation in Salzburg

Around 500 experts from academia, industry and public administration from across the globe gathered at the Faculty of Natural and Life Sciences of the University of Salzburg on 8–9 July 2026 for AGIT 2026. Under the theme “Shaping Geospatial Futures”, the conference focused on the latest developments in geoinformatics, artificial intelligence and Earth observation.

Once again, the University of Salzburg became an international meeting point for the geoinformatics community. Organised by the Department of Geoinformatics (Z_GIS), AGIT featured scientific presentations, workshops, poster sessions, industry pitches and numerous opportunities for professional exchange and networking.

Geoinformatics as a Key Enabling Technology

This year’s conference demonstrated the remarkable pace at which the field of geoinformatics continues to evolve. Key topics included applications of artificial intelligence in spatial data analysis (GeoAI), advances in Earth observation, digital twins, spatial data spaces, mobility, climate change, natural hazards, as well as issues relating to data ethics and the responsible use of geospatial information.

“AGIT thrives on the exchange between academia, industry and public administration. Particularly in times of rapid technological transformation, platforms are needed where new ideas can be discussed and developed collaboratively,” emphasised Bernhard Zagel of the AGIT team at the University of Salzburg’s Department of Geoinformatics.

International Keynotes and Scientific Excellence

Among the highlights of the conference were keynote presentations by Trisalyn Nelson, Director of the Centre for Spatial Studies and Data Science and Chair of Geography at the University of California, Santa Barbara, who addressed the ethics of spatial data in the age of artificial intelligence, and Michael Putz, Co-Founder and CEO of Blackshark.ai. In total, approximately 200 scientific papers, posters and workshops were presented during the conference.

Recognising Excellence in Early-Career Research

A further highlight was the presentation of the AGEO Award. First place was awarded to Sarah Prinz (TU Wien) for her study, “Think Positive! Comparing Positive and Negative Experiences of Bicycle Riders”. Additional prizes were awarded to Anna-Lena Müller (University of Salzburg) and Mario Pracher (TU Wien).

The Best Student Paper Award was presented to David Hackert, Raphaela Edler and Blake Byron Walker for their work on spatial analysis methods for open-source human rights investigations. Further awards were received by Isabella Tkalec, Nikola Koktavá, and Florian Winkler.

Knowledge Exchange, Networks and Strong Partnerships

Alongside its scientific programme, AGIT offered extensive opportunities for networking and fostered dialogue between academia, industry and public administration. Long-standing partners and sponsors played a significant role in the conference’s success, including Esri, Synergis, movingLayer, AGEO, the Austrian Research Promotion Agency (FFG), the Federal Ministry for Innovation, Mobility and Infrastructure (BMIMI), and H. Wichmann Verlag.

Looking Ahead

AGIT 2026 clearly demonstrated the pivotal role of geoinformatics in addressing major societal challenges, ranging from climate adaptation and sustainable mobility to data-driven decision-making. Topics such as GeoAI, high-resolution Earth observation, digital twins and trustworthy geospatial data are expected to shape the future development of the discipline for years to come.

The next AGIT conference will take place at the University of Salzburg on 7–8 July 2027.

Further Information:
Website:  www.agit.at
Proceedings:  eplus.uni-salzburg.at/agit

Images from AGIT 2026 are available in the  University of Salzburg’s Flickr album.