MIPIM has announced the expansion of its Challengers programme for 2026, doubling the number of places available to 40 to further support early-career professionals shaping the future of the built environment. Now in its third year, the initiative is aimed at professionals under 31 who have never attended MIPIM. It provides a platform for rising talent to engage directly with global industry leaders through mentoring, networking and leadership development.
Successful applicants will receive a free delegate pass, access to a tailored development course including AI training, and the opportunity to contribute to a high-profile industry paper. They will also participate in roundtable discussions and a pre-event interview with one of two nominated senior executives from their organisation.
Nicolas Boffi, MIPIM Director, said: “MIPIM has long been a gathering place for seasoned professionals in real estate, but if we want the industry to evolve and stay relevant, we need to make space for fresh thinking and the next generation of leaders. That is why the Challengers programme matters. It brings in bold, young voices who challenge the status quo and offer new perspectives.
"Since launching in 2023, we have seen immediate impact: some of our first Challengers returned the following year not just as attendees, but as experts, joining panels and mentoring the next cohort. In 2026, we are expanding the programme to welcome even more rising talent. I’m excited to see how they’ll shape the conversations at MIPIM and help drive the industry forward.”
Applications are open until 21 November 2025. Candidates or their employers must submit a 200-word statement outlining why they or their nominee should be selected, with a focus on recent achievements and leadership in the built environment. Self-nominations are also accepted.
The 2026 edition will focus on strategic themes including residential development, data centres, healthcare, equality of opportunity and artificial intelligence.
For full details and eligibility, visit: mipim.com/mipim-challengers