2026 AOA Innovation Hub
The future of optometry is driven by innovation—where cutting-edge technology and forward-thinking solutions redefine eye care. Are you an industry innovator? Then let’s talk about the AOA's Innovation Hub, only at Optometry's Meeting.
2026 AOA Innovation Hub
June 16-17 | Phoenix Convention Center
What is the AOA Innovation Hub?
It’s a special, two-day program that dovetails into Optometry's Meeting 2026 in Phoenix. Bringing together not only eye health and vision care industry innovators but also clinical and scientific researchers and business leaders from across the world, the AOA Innovation Hub seeks to:
- Foster collaboration on vision health research and new tech.
- Empower optometric professionals to push boundaries.
- Improve accessibility to eye health and vision care through innovative solutions.
The 2025 AOA Innovation Hub, supported by AOAExcel®, Harrow, Lumenis and Alcon, was a catalyst for ideas and partnerships. Read more about the 2025 AOA Innovation Hub.
2026 Innovation Hub: Innovation and Opportunities
The AOA Innovation Hub is an opportunity to engage in cutting-edge panel discussions on new technologies and AI, emerging pharmaceuticals and diagnostic innovations; network with industry leaders; discover breakthrough ideas and gain insights that could transform optometric practice. Here's what you can expect from the 2026 Innovation Hub:
🗓️ Tuesday, June 16
5-6 p.m. | Innovation Reception
A relaxed networking reception bringing together startups, investors, industry leaders and AOA Advocacy Roundtable members.
6:30 p.m. | Hosted VIP Dinner (invite only)
🗓️ Wednesday, June 17
12 p.m. | On the Horizon - Networking Lunch
Lunch and open networking will begin our programming for the day.
1 p.m. | Innovation Hub Panels
Showcasing cutting-edge innovators and startups driving the future of optometric care. Three panel discussions will each be preceded by 20 minutes of CE for attendees. Panels will discuss technology interventions aimed at addressing specific practice challenges.
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Panel 1: AI in Optometry
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Panel 2: Pharmaceutical Advances in Eye Care
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Panel 3: Scheduling Procedures and Diagnostic Equipment
3 p.m. | Closing Networking Session
Final opportunity for attendees to connect, exchange insights and explore partnership opportunities.
Participating sponsors are featured in the AOA Innovation Hub in the Eye Care Square exhibit hall. All conference attendees have the opportunity to network and connect with sponsoring innovation companies in the Eye Care Square.
Get in on the ground level of the AOA Innovation Hub and learn about our exciting 2026 program, featured innovators and more. Subscribe to receive the latest information and participation details when they're announced.
