--- title: SPARK LIVE 2026 - Highlights and Key Takeaways url: https://www.brightedge.com/Spark26-live --- # SPARK LIVE 2026 - Highlights and Key Takeaways ## Optimize Once, Win Everywhere. SPARK Live 2026 brought together leading brands and industry experts to explore how AI is reshaping search and content discovery. From SEO to AEO and beyond, the event highlighted how a unified strategy can maximise visibility, performance, and impact across every digital touch. --- ## Event Cities - San Francisco - New York --- ## San Francisco ### [San Francisco agenda overview](https://www.brightedge.com/Spark26-live#san-francisco-agenda) March 10, 2026 | Full day event (9:30 AM to 5:30 PM) 1. **9:30 - 10:00 AM**: Registration 2. **10:00 - 11:00 AM**: Opening keynote & Product keynote 3. **11:00 - 12:00 PM**: Customer panel discussion featuring 3-4 customer speakers (panelists to be announced) 4. **12:00 - 01:00 PM**: Lunch & Networking 5. **01:00 - 04:00 PM**: Breakout sessions: Certifications & hands-on demos (includes a break) 6. **04:00 - 05:00 PM**: Live Edgie Awards Ceremony 7. **04:45 - 06:00 PM**: Reception with Networking --- ## New York ### [New York agenda overview](https://www.brightedge.com/Spark26-live#new-york-agenda) March 12, 2026 | Full day event (9:30 AM to 5:30 PM) 1. **9:30 - 10:00 AM**: Registration 2. **10:00 - 11:00 AM**: Opening keynote & Product keynote 3. **11:00 - 12:00 PM**: Customer panel discussion featuring 3-4 customer speakers (panelists to be announced) 4. **12:00 - 01:00 PM**: Lunch & Networking 5. **01:00 - 04:00 PM**: Breakout sessions: Certifications & hands-on demos (includes a break) 6. **04:00 - 05:00 PM**: Live Edgie Awards Ceremony 7. **04:45 - 06:00 PM**: Reception with Networking ## Featured speakers Hear from BrightEdge customers, industry experts, and executives who are redefining what is possible with AI search and SEO. ### ![Kari Beaulieu](http://images-cdn.brightedge.com/f00000000295597/videos.brightedge.com/stagging-files/inline-images/Group%201321314358.png) **Kari Beaulieu** Group Product Manager (SEO) ### ![Jim Yu](http://images-cdn.brightedge.com/f00000000295597/videos.brightedge.com/stagging-files/inline-images/Frame%203772_0.png) **Jim Yu** CEO ### ![Lemuel Park](https://images-cdn.brightedge.com/f00000000295597/videos.brightedge.com/stagging-files/inline-images/Frame%203773.png) **Lemuel Park** CTO ### ![Angela Renahan](https://images-cdn.brightedge.com/f00000000295597/videos.brightedge.com/stagging-files/inline-images/Frame%203774.png) **Angela Renahan** Senior Manager ### ![Ran Van Riper](https://images-cdn.brightedge.com/f00000000295597/videos.brightedge.com/stagging-files/inline-images/Frame%203775-2.png) **Ran Van Riper** Chief Customer Officer ### ![Michelle Maret](https://images-cdn.brightedge.com/f00000000295597/videos.brightedge.com/stagging-files/inline-images/Frame%203774_0.png) **Michelle Maret** Customer Success Manager ### ![Leslie Edwards](https://images-cdn.brightedge.com/f00000000295597/videos.brightedge.com/stagging-files/inline-images/Group%201321314349.png) **Leslie Edwards** Global SEO Manager ### ![Joseph Page](https://images-cdn.brightedge.com/f00000000295597/videos.brightedge.com/stagging-files/inline-images/Group%201321314355.png) **Joseph Page** SEO Manager ### ![Sari Elzweig](https://images-cdn.brightedge.com/f00000000295597/videos.brightedge.com/stagging-files/inline-images/Sari.png) **Sari Elzweig** Director, SEO & AI Discoverability ### ![Chris Philp](https://images-cdn.brightedge.com/f00000000295597/videos.brightedge.com/stagging-files/inline-images/Group%201321314356.png) **Chris Philp** VP SEO Lead ### ![Brad Neelan](https://images-cdn.brightedge.com/f00000000295597/videos.brightedge.com/stagging-files/inline-images/Frame%203776.png) **Brad Neelan** Global Head of Search & AI-Powered Digital Media ### ![Ander Frischer](https://images-cdn.brightedge.com/f00000000295597/videos.brightedge.com/stagging-files/inline-images/Group%201321314357.png) **Ander Frischer** SEO and AEO Lead ![Chris Philp](https://images-cdn.brightedge.com/f00000000295597/videos.brightedge.com/stagging-files/inline-images/Group%201321314356.png) **Chris Philp** VP SEO Lead ![brightedge logo](https://images-cdn.brightedge.com/f00000000295597/videos.brightedge.com/stagging-files/inline-images/image%2018.png) ![Brad Neelan](https://images-cdn.brightedge.com/f00000000295597/videos.brightedge.com/stagging-files/inline-images/Frame%203776.png) **Brad Neelan** Global Head of Search & AI-Powered Digital Media ![brightedge logo](https://images-cdn.brightedge.com/f00000000295597/videos.brightedge.com/stagging-files/inline-images/image%2014.png) ![Ander Frischer](https://images-cdn.brightedge.com/f00000000295597/videos.brightedge.com/stagging-files/inline-images/Group%201321314357.png) **Ander Frischer** SEO and AEO Lead ![brightedge logo](https://images-cdn.brightedge.com/f00000000295597/videos.brightedge.com/stagging-files/inline-images/image%2019.png) ## Access your BrightEdge SPARK Live Certifications Participants of SPARK Live 2026 can download their certifications and showcase their achievements. ### [BrightEdge AI Certification](https://brightedge.litmos.com/self-signup/) Enrolment Code : Website26 [ENROLL NOW](https://brightedge.litmos.com/self-signup/) ### [BrightEdge AI Advanced Certification](https://brightedge.litmos.com/self-signup/) Enrolment Code : Website426 [ENROLL NOW](https://brightedge.litmos.com/self-signup/) ### What Happens After you Enroll? New to BrightEdge University? You'll receive a welcome email with your username and login details. Your certification will appear under "Not Started" in your dashboard — ready when you are. ### Already on BrightEdge University? Your dashboard will automatically update with your certification listed under "Not Started." Simply log in and pick up from here. ## How to Download Your Certificate 1. ### Log In Log in to BrightEdge account and click "Settings" 2. ### Click Click on "Get Certified" 3. ### Achievements Click on "Achievements" in the top banner of the training system page 4. ### Download To get a PDF version of your certificate, go to the "Certificates" section and click on "Download" to the right of the course name. Share your achievement 5. ### Showcase You can also showcase your certification on LinkedIn by accessing the Badge Showcase section and clicking the share icon below your badge ## Key Takeaways ### **Opening Keynote:** The Shift to AI-Driven Search The day opened with a clear message – AI agents are already reshaping how users discover content. As search evolves, brands that adapt quickly will gain a measurable competitive edge. ### **Product Keynote:** Innovation with Real Impact We introduced AI Hypercube, Share of Voice V2, and AI Agent Insights – new capabilities designed to give marketers a clearer, more actionable view of performance in AI-driven search environments. ### **Product Deep Dive:** From Insight to Execution Through real-world workflows and use cases, attendees saw how these innovations translate into action – enabling smarter content decisions, improved visibility, and stronger performance outcomes. ### **Certification Program:** Building Future-Ready Teams **Hands-on certification sessions equipped attendees with the knowledge and skills needed to scale success in an AI-first search landscape.** ### **Edgie Awards:** Celebrating Excellence in Action **The event concluded by recognizing teams and individuals driving innovation and measurable impact across digital and search performance.** ### **Networking:** Where Conversation Drives Opportunity **From structured discussions to organic interactions, SPARK created space for meaningful connections, idea exchange, and collaboration.** ## What our Attendees are Saying **BrightEdge Spark 2026 was an incredibly valuable experience for our team at Gusto. The conference brought together forward-thinking leaders across search and AI, and provided actionable insights on how the landscape is evolving with LLMs and AEO. We especially appreciated the opportunity to share our work and learn from peers across leading brands. Being recognized with an Edgie Award in the Innovator category made the experience even more meaningful. Kudos to the BrightEdge team for hosting a well-organized, high-impact event -- we’re excited to continue partnering and pushing the boundaries of search innovation.** **— Gusto CEO, TechCorp** **Several of our clients use Brightedge and we were so glad to attend the event to help understand how to leverage the tool to its full capacity and help the clients stay at the top of their respective industries.** **— A Marketing Agency** ## **Breakouts and Certifications** **SPARK Live attendees the opportunity to choose how they invest their time through certification-based learning, breakout sessions, or a combination of both.** ### **BrightEdge Certifications** **Certifications at SPARK Live help practitioners build hands-on expertise across SEO, content, and AI-driven search (AEO) using the BrightEdge platform. This year marks the first introduction of an AI-focused certification, designed to prepare customers to use BrightEdge AI-powered platform capabilities.** **BrightEdge AI Certificate** **Build a strong foundation in AI-powered search, visibility, and performance using the BrightEdge Platform. Ideal for marketers evolving SEO and content strategies for AI-driven discovery.** **BrightEdge AI Advanced Certificate** **Dive deeper into advanced AEO and SEO frameworks, real-world applications, and strategic execution of AI across search and digital channels using BrightEdge. Designed for experienced practitioners leading AI initiatives.** **OR** ### **Ask Me Anything & Customer Success Sessions** **Join interactive, open-format sessions with BrightEdge experts and the Customer Success team. Bring your questions, explore real-world challenges, and get practical guidance on using BrightEdge more effectively across SEO, content, and AI-driven search.** **More details will be shared closer to the event.** ![BrightEdge AI Search Summit, Melbourne](http://images-cdn.brightedge.com/f00000000295597/videos.brightedge.com/stagging-files/inline-images/0C3A3494%201.png) ## Why attend? - **Learn how AI is reshaping search and what winning strategies look like in 2026** - **Hear real customer stories and proven strategies driving measurable growth** - **Build practical skills through hands-on workshops and training** - **Connect with 200+ SEO and digital marketing leaders facing the same challenges** ### Registration is now closed **Thank you for the strong interest in BrightEdge SPARK Live 2026. Registration for both the San Francisco and New York events is now closed.** **If you have already registered, please confirm your attendance and select your breakout session using the links below.** **The confirmation form also allows you to share any dietary restrictions so we can plan accordingly.** **For any additional queries, please contact** [event_planning@brightedge.com](mailto:event_planning@brightedge.com). ### Confirm your attendance and choose your breakout session **SAN FRANCISCO** *Date:* March 10, 2026 *Location:* Hyatt Regency, San Francisco ![Image](https://images-cdn.brightedge.com/f00000000295597/videos.brightedge.com/stagging-files/inline-images/Frame%201%20%281%29.png) [CONFIRM SAN FRANCISCO ATTENDANCE](https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=-QuOO7eEAEGRT-rr72d4xumbPPFfwXtIvxH-XcOzOtBUNlkwUFZIWEgxNTlTQUlHRzkxN09VWVJHWi4u&route=shorturl) **NEW YORK** *Date:* March 12, 2026 *Location:* Jay Conference, Near Bryant Park, New York ![Image](https://images-cdn.brightedge.com/f00000000295597/videos.brightedge.com/stagging-files/inline-images/Frame%20%283%29.png) [CONFIRM NEW YORK ATTENDANCE](https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=-QuOO7eEAEGRT-rr72d4xumbPPFfwXtIvxH-XcOzOtBUNVNURTY1QUdQNDlXSzE5SkFEV1YxQVc2Ni4u&route=shorturl) Already registered? Please complete the confirmation form above to select your breakout session and share any dietary restrictions. If breakout sessions are not selected in advance, seating for certification sessions may not be guaranteed. --- ![The Edge Awards 26](https://images-cdn.brightedge.com/f00000000295597/videos.brightedge.com/stagging-files/inline-images/Group%2048098330.png) The BrightEdge Edgie Awards celebrate the most impactful search and digital marketing achievements across the BrightEdge community. At SPARK Live 2026 in San Francisco and New York, we recognized the teams and individuals driving meaningful results and pushing the boundaries of what is possible in modern search. [WATCH EDGIE RECORDING](https://www.brightedge.com/edgie-on-demand) ## Frequently Asked Questions ### Overview **What is BrightEdge SPARK Live?** SPARK Live is BrightEdge’s in-person event for SEO and digital marketing leaders. It brings together industry experts, customers, and BrightEdge executives for a full day focused on AI search, strategy, and hands-on learning. **Who should attend SPARK Live?** SPARK Live is designed for SEO, digital marketing, and growth leaders who want practical insight into AI-driven search, performance strategy, and the future of organic visibility. ### Dates & Locations **When and where is SPARK Live 2026 taking place?** SPARK Live 2026 takes place in two cities: **San Francisco** – March 10, 2026 at [Hyatt Regency](https://www.google.co.in/maps/place/Hyatt+Regency+San+Francisco/@37.7942169,-122.3956663,17z/data=!3m2!4b1!5s0x80858066b28006cb:0xb825fcec1d68f03b!4m9!3m8!1s0x808580614d1f605f:0x84660c500c409d2b!5m2!4m1!1i2!8m2!3d37.7942169!4d-122.3956663!16s%2Fm%2F0b6f64b?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI2MDEyNS4wIKXMDSoKLDEwMDc5MjA2N0gBUAM%3D) **New York City** – March 12, 2026 at [Jay Conference, Bryant Park](https://www.google.co.in/maps/place/Jay+Conference+Bryant+Park+-+Conference+Center+NYC,+Event+Space+%26+Meeting+Space+Rentals/@40.7536004,-73.9857571,17z/data=!3m2!4b1!5s0x89c259911b41c691:0xb7c3abecc8a7673!4m6!3m5!1s0x89c259ab006c2d45:0xcb16ab70f61527a9!8m2!3d40.7536004!4d-73.9857571!16s%2Fg%2F1261788fw?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI2MDEyNS4wIKXMDSoKLDEwMDc5MjA2N0gBUAM%3D) **Can I attend both the San Francisco and New York events?** Yes. Attendees may register for one or both locations, subject to availability. ### Registration & Attendance **Is my registration automatically confirmed?** Registration is subject to approval. You will receive a confirmation email once your registration is approved. **Is there a cost to attend?** No. SPARK Live 2026 is free for approved, registered attendees. Attendees are responsible for their own travel and accommodations. **How do I register for SPARK Live 2026?** SPARK Live is open to BrightEdge customers and invited marketing leaders. You can save your spot by visiting the registration link on the BrightEdge SPARK Live event page. Space is limited and advance registration is required. **What happens if I register but can’t attend?** If your plans change, please update your registration or notify the BrightEdge events team. **Can I bring a guest or colleague?** Each attendee must register individually. Guest attendance is subject to availability and approval. ### Agenda & Sessions **What sessions and activities are included?** Attendees can expect keynotes on AI search evolution and BrightEdge’s 2026 product vision, hands-on certifications and practical technical workshops, the BrightEdge Edgie Awards celebrating SEO and marketing excellence, and networking opportunities with industry leaders. **Is the agenda final?** The agenda is subject to change. Final session details and speakers will be shared with registered attendees. **Will the agenda be the same in both cities?** The core agenda will be consistent across locations, with some variation in panel speakers and sessions. **What time should I plan to arrive?** Check-in opens in the morning. We recommend arriving by 9:30 AM to allow time for registration before the opening keynote. **Will the event be recorded and shared?** SPARK Live is designed as an in-person experience to encourage direct connection and discussion. Sessions will not be recorded. That said, select materials may be shared with attendees after the event. ### Breakouts & Certifications **Do I need to pre-select breakout sessions or certifications?** Details on breakout sessions and certifications will be shared with registered attendees closer to the event. **Do I need to prepare in advance for certifications or workshops?** No advance preparation is required. Details will be shared ahead of time with registered attendees. ### Edgie Awards **What are the BrightEdge Edgie Awards?** The Edgie Awards recognize excellence in SEO and digital marketing, celebrating innovative programs and measurable impact. ### Logistics & Onsite Experience **What about logistics like venue details and timing?** SPARK Live is a full-day event, with programming running from approximately 9:30 AM through early evening. Registered attendees will receive detailed information about the venue, location, event schedule, parking, and other logistics to help you plan your visit. **Will more details be shared after registration?** Yes. Registered attendees will receive event logistics including agenda timing, venue details, parking guidance, and planning information closer to the event. **Is parking available at or near the venue?** Parking options vary by location. Parking and public transit recommendations will be shared with registered attendees. **Will there be a place to store luggage or coats?** Coat check availability will vary by venue. Details will be shared closer to the event. **What meals are provided?** Lunch, coffee breaks and refreshments will be provided throughout the day. **Will Wi-Fi be available at the venue?** Yes. Complimentary Wi-Fi will be available for attendees. **Will power outlets be available?** Power availability will vary by room. Attendees are encouraged to bring charged devices. ### Accessibility & Safety **Is the event accessible?** Yes. Both venues are ADA-compliant. If you have specific accessibility needs, please contact the events team in advance. **Can dietary restrictions be accommodated?** Yes. Attendees will be able to note dietary needs during registration. **What safety measures will be in place?** Venue security and safety protocols will be in place throughout the event. ### Support & Contact ## Who can I contact with questions? For additional questions, contact [event_planning@brightedge.com](mailto:event_planning@brightedge.com).