From September 16 to 18, 2026, the annual Mountain Network Summit will take place in Alpbach, Tyrol, Austria – a key networking and knowledge event for cable car industry and alpine tourism professionals.

Three days of intensive programs offer the opportunity to explore the latest trends in alpine tourism, understand how to leverage them for business growth, and build new connections with colleagues and partners.

Plus: a stunning location in the heart of Tyrol, giving participants the chance to spend an extra day or two in nature and recharge after an active exchange.

Let’s talk about money

This year’s theme, Boosting Business in the Mountains, will be explored from three perspectives, with all sessions organized into thematic tracks. Wednesday’s sessions will focus on finance, led by expert speakers.

Rahim Taghizadegan, Economist and Publisher, will explore how alpine financial history can help tackle today’s challenges in investment and entrepreneurship.

Peter Brezinschek, Former Chief Analyst at Raiffeisen Research, will continue the discussion in a keynote on how interest rates and monetary policy influence tourism.

Participants will have the opportunity to ask questions during a panel discussion, network with the experts during breaks, and deepen their knowledge in thematic workshops covering various financial instruments.

Let’s talk about guests

Thursday’s program kicks off with the Tourism Track. It will be opened by Astrid Steharnig-Staudinger, CEO of Austria Tourism, sharing her insights on what makes the country attractive to visitors today.

Another special guest, Markus Meier, CEO of Therme Erding, will compare Europe’s largest thermal spa and ski resorts – giving the cable car industry a behind-the-scenes look at spa operations and some practical takeaways.

This year’s special interactive format is the Barcamp, where all participants contribute and discuss ideas. The goal is to support one another in tackling challenges. Topics will be determined during a pitch session, following the leitmotif: “Pain Points – What can we do better for guests?“

Let‘s talk about technology

The next session on Thursday afternoon will focus on technical aspects. Klaus Schneider, Project Director of Austria’s Koralmbahn High-Speed Railway, will share the key success factors behind this landmark project – giving the cable car industry fresh ideas from a different field.

Participants can also dive into technical trends and innovations through talks led by top industry experts. The day concludes with a discussion on “What Awaits Ski Resorts in 2040?”, featuring insights from a future researcher.

Alpine experience

On Friday morning, participants can join a hands-on, behind-the-scenes tour of the Alpbach Cable Cars.  Last but not least, the program features shared dinners, including one on the mountain with stunning views – a perfect chance to connect and make memories.