Your checklist for JEC World 2026

JEC World is the world’s largest and longest-running composites trade event, returning once again to Paris in March 2026. Source (All Images) | CW

The JEC World trade show will be here again before we know it, set to take place at the Paris-Nord Villepinte exhibition center in Paris, France, from March 10-12, 2026.

Whether this is your first time or you’re a JEC veteran, the world’s leading composites trade event can be overwhelming. The show floor is full of the latest composite materials and process technologies on display by 1,350 exhibitors from 100 countries, including 27 pavilions. There are numerous conference sessions and live demonstrations to attend. And thousands of new colleagues from around the world are within reach to network with.

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What do you need to know — and do — before the show?

First things first. Still need to register? Visit www.jec-world.events/visit/badge to register and secure your badge. JEC’s “Useful Info” page offers a starting point for travel and lodging recommendations.

Download the app. Search for “JEC World” in your preferred app store to find an up-to-date agenda, list of exhibitors, an interactive map of the show floor and the ability to message or schedule meetings directly with representatives from exhibiting companies.

Check out the list of Startup Booster and Innovation Award finalists. The annual JEC Composites Innovation celebrate projects and collaborations from across the industry. This year, from 154 submitted projects, 33 finalists were announced in December 2025, and winners selected in 11 categories were announced during the JEC World Premiere event on January 12 in Paris.

The Startup Booster competition is also back in 2026, giving startup visibility to potential investors and the rest of the composites industry. The 20 finalists were announced during the JEC World Premiere and will have the chance to pitch to investors at the JEC World show in person, where three winners will ultimately be selected. You can meet this year’s finalists at the Startup Village on the show floor.

Pick and choose what to prioritize from the conference agenda and live demos. Once you’re on the show floor, it can be easy to lose track of time. Review the JEC World Conferences agenda ahead of time to ensure you can pencil in the sessions you want to attend.

This year’s schedule promises expert insights into topics like circular materials, design and simulation, the latest in end markets like aerospace and more. The Country on Stage program highlights the composites industry in selected regions, with Saudi Arabia featured this year. The Composites Exchange program calls attention to products, solutions and real-world business cases.

In addition, the Live Demo Area has been expanded this year. Slot in some time to check out live demonstrations in automation, 3D printing and thermoplastic forming presented by exhibitors and technical partners.

Last year’s Natural Fibers Village, which will be expanded in 2026 to the Bio-Materials Village.

Don’t forget the Planets and Villages. Want to see examples of all of the latest composites technology in action all in one spot? There are several Innovation Planets on the show floor showcasing innovative products and solutions across themed end markets.

You’ll also want to make a plan to stop by this year’s five Villages:

• The Circularity Village (new in 2026) focuses on recycling, repairing, repurposing and reusing composite parts.
• The Bio-Materials Village (new in 2026) expands the bio-sourced focus of the previous Natural Fibers Village and is organized in collaboration with the Alliance for European Flax-Linen & Hemp.
• The Startups Village features the Startup Booster finalists.
• The SMEs Village showcases small- and medium-sized companies.
• The Campus & Careers Village connects universities and recruiters.

Block out times to find new things! Even if your schedule is packed with meetings and presentations, pencil in at least a bit of time each day to explore and give yourself the opportunity to stumble upon technologies or companies you may not otherwise have thought to see.

Keep up with the latest updates. As always, CW will publish updated info leading up to and during the event, so be sure to subscribe to our email newsletters, follow us on LinkedIn and check out the latest on our JEC topics page.