FAQ
General Information
Cognifyd and All Things AI are the organizers of AI//FORWARD—an exclusive two-day, in-person conference uniting Enterprise/SMB business leaders and leading AI experts to explore the forefront of artificial intelligence and machine learning.
Whether you’re building AI or integrating it into your organization, this premier AI event is designed to deepen your expertise and expand your network.
Day 1: Executive-Level Workshops
Attend immersive strategy sessions and technical deep dives for business leaders, focused on Al strategy, readiness tools, workforce/change strategy, and peer-driven insights.
Day 2: Traditional Conference Day
Gain insights and expertise from Al thought leaders, engineers, and researchers on cutting-edge topics like open-source AI, LLM deployment, and real-world Al applications.
Both Days: Community & Networking
Network and connect with Al business leaders, change-makers, entrepreneurs, and practitioners in a collaborative environment to share insights and discover opportunities.
This conference is designed for professionals actively shaping or advancing AI applications. Ideal attendees include:
- Business leaders driving AI strategy
- AI technologists (developers, ML engineers)
- Educators shaping AI learning
- Startups & founders in the AI space
- Professionals upskilling into AI tools
This is a fully in-person event, designed to maximize engagement and connection through live trainings, sessions, and networking. Sessions will not be recorded, so we encourage you to secure your ticket early to be part of this exclusive experience.
While the conference offers valuable insights, expert-led sessions, and hands-on learning opportunities, we are not offering formal certifications at this time.
Please contact [email protected] with any questions.
Location & Parking
The conference will take place Monday, October 27 and Tuesday, October 28 at the Dubois Center at UNC Charlotte Center City.
The address is 320 E 9th Street, Charlotte, NC 28202.
Parking
Visitor parking for events is not available through the University. Several pay-to-park options are within walking distance, with the closest being 422 E 9th Street.
For parking, download the Park Mobile app and select zone #96422. Please see the downloadable parking map for parking options around Center City.
Note: Parking is no longer available at 319 E 9th Street.
Lightrail
Visitors are encouraged to use the light rail when visiting the Dubois Center.
The venue is half a block from the 9th Street Station. Free parking is available at 9 of the 11 light rail Park and Ride locations, with Sugar Creek Station and Scaleybark Park being the closest to 9th Street Station.
Purchase light rail tickets from vending machines on station platforms or via the CATS-Pass app.
For more details, you can visit the Dubois Center’s Parking & Light Rail page.
Airport
The closest major airport is Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT). Located approximately 7 miles from Uptown Charlotte, it typically takes about 15–25 minutes to reach the Dubois Center by car, depending on traffic conditions.
Hotels
Below are nearby hotel options to consider; however, we can’t guarantee availability. Contact the hotels directly to book a new reservation.
Homewood Suites by Hilton Charlotte Uptown First Ward
508 N College Street, Charlotte, NC 28202
(704) 335-3338
Distance: 0.2 miles
SpringHill Suites Charlotte City Center
311 E 5th Street, Charlotte, NC 28202
(704) 439-8100
Distance: 0.3 miles
DoubleTree by Hilton Charlotte City Center
230 N College Street, Charlotte, NC 28202
(704) 335-5400
Distance: 0.4 miles
The Dunhill Hotel
237 N Tryon Street, Charlotte, NC 28202
(704) 335-4141
Distance: 0.5 miles
Hyatt House Charlotte/Center City
435 E Trade Street, Charlotte, NC 28202
(704) 335-4141
Distance: 0.6 miles
Registration
You can register online through Eventbrite: ai-forward.eventbrite.com.
Please visit our registration page for details on ticket options and registration fees. All tickets include complimentary breakfast refreshments and lunch.
While we don’t offer general discounts, we are committed to supporting the broader tech and non-profit community. Complimentary tickets will be made available to select non-profit organizations, community groups, and academic partners.
If you represent one of these groups, please reach out to [email protected] to learn more.
To register a group of three or more, please contact our team at [email protected].
We’ll be happy to assist with group registration and ensure all attendees are properly accounted for.
Cancellations and Refunds are eligible up to Friday, October 10, 2025 through Eventbrite. Refunds will be processed 5 to 7 business days after the request has been processed and confirmed to the method of payment on the attendee record.
Transfers are eligible up to Monday, October 20, 2025 via written request to [email protected]. Please provide the names and emails of both original and substitute registrants, with both parties copied in the email. All requests for Transfers must be received no later than 5:00 PM EST on Monday, October 20, 2025.
Speakers & Sponsors
Yes! We welcome thought leaders, innovators, and practitioners to share their insights and expertise with our engaged audience. Apply here for a chance to speak at the conference. Our team will review your submission and get back to you shortly about speaking opportunities.
Yes! Sponsoring is a great way to connect with an AI-focused audience and position your brand as a thought leader in the space. Submit your interest here, and our team will follow up shortly to discuss sponsorship options and benefits.
