SBC Summit 2025 kicks off in Lisbon with record 30,000 attendees expected
Summary
SBC Summit 2025 has opened at the Feira Internacional de Lisboa and MEO Arena, with organisers expecting a record 30,000 attendees — a 20% increase year-on-year. The event brings participants from over 130 countries and expands its reach with new Global & Emerging Markets stages and regional networking zones. New Tech Academies will offer hands-on learning in AI, blockchain, gamification and marketing.
The exhibition spans 135,000 square metres, hosts around 700 exhibitors and is organised into themed zones, lounges and interactive showcases. The conference programme features six stages, more than 550 industry experts (44% senior executives) and headline sessions on affiliation, player protection, martech, payments and other sector priorities.
High-profile speakers include Randi Zuckerberg (delivering an AI-focused talk) and Gary Vaynerchuk (on attention economy and storytelling). The summit also mixes entertainment and sport, with celebrity appearances, a Legends Charity Game, awards ceremonies — including the inaugural Affiliate Leaders Awards and the 12th SBC Summit Awards — plus the INFINITY Lisbon closing party featuring ALOK and Timmy Trumpet.
Key Points
- Record attendance expected: 30,000 delegates, representing a 20% year-on-year rise.
- Global footprint: attendees from 130+ countries and new Global & Emerging Markets stages.
- Tech Academies launch: practical sessions covering AI, blockchain, gamification and marketing.
- Large exhibition: ~700 exhibitors across 135,000 sqm with themed zones and nine Food Festival areas.
- Strong senior presence: 550+ experts on six stages; 44% are senior executives.
- Major speakers: Randi Zuckerberg on AI and Gary Vaynerchuk on attention-driven strategies.
- Sports and celebrity draw: football legends, boxers and influencers featured across events.
- Awards and networking: Affiliate Leaders Awards (new), SBC Summit Awards (12th edition) and expanded Affiliate Leaders Summit.
- Closing entertainment: INFINITY Lisbon party with headline DJs ALOK and Timmy Trumpet.
Context and relevance
SBC Summit is one of the industry’s flagship gatherings for operators, suppliers and affiliates. This edition’s growth and new programming underline the sector’s global expansion and the increasing importance of technology (AI, blockchain, martech) and regional market strategies — notably Latin America. For companies tracking market trends, regulation, partnerships and product launches, SBC Summit acts as a live barometer for where the industry is heading.
Author style
Punchy: This is a major industry moment — big attendance, big names and a clear tech and regional push. If you work in gaming, betting or adjacent services, the details matter: new academies, senior executive panels and the awards night are where deals and thinking get made.
Why should I read this?
Short version: it’s where the industry gathers, learns and parties. If you want quick intel on who’s talking about AI, payments or LatAm opportunities (and who’s likely to be signing deals), this saves you the faff of sifting through schedules yourself.