June 10-12
Jackson Mississippi
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Southern Spark 2026
Grounded Futures: AI in the South
What to ExpectSouthern Spark 2026 celebrates AI applied in real-world contexts across the South, with a focus on community impact and actionable learning.
Participants leave with tools, partnerships, frameworks, and real examples they can bring back to their classrooms, workplaces, and communities. Southern Spark 2026 is an invitation to build across disciplines, sectors, and communities. We look forward to learning from what you are building—and sharing what works—together.
Fireside Chat Nominations
Southern Spark 2026 is now accepting Fireside Chat nominations (including self-nominations).
What is a Fireside Chat?
A 5–10 minute moderated conversation with host Krystal Chatman, featured throughout the conference.
Goal
These short conversations spotlight must-hear voices and real-world AI leadership across the South. This is an opportunity for attendees to hear directly from someone making an impact, big or small, in their community.
Who can be nominated?
Educators, students, startup founders, nonprofit leaders, policymakers, researchers, and practitioners applying AI in real contexts.
