Daymond John to Launch HIMSS26 Emerge Experience
Daymond John, the renowned entrepreneur and investor, is set to take the stage as the opening keynote speaker at the HIMSS26 Emerge Experience on March 11, 2026. This pivotal event, part of the HIMSS Global Health Conference & Exhibition, will unfold in the Venetian Expo Convention Center, Las Vegas, from March 9 to 12.
The Emerge Experience is designed as a premier innovation summit that will gather key players in the healthcare space, including visionary leaders, investors, and decision-makers. John's keynote will revolve around essential themes such as Innovation, Connections, and Investment, urging attendees to embrace a forward-thinking mindset in the rapidly transforming healthcare landscape.
"Emerge is a gathering place for those who truly drive innovation forward - the investors, founders, and decision-makers," stated John. His compelling perspective as an entrepreneur will set the tone for a day dedicated to understanding the immediate priorities of health systems, the needs of payers, and the fusion of innovative ideas into actionable strategies.—
In its second iteration, the Emerge Experience will host around 400 industry leaders in a curated and intimate environment. It promises a dynamic lineup of activities, including energetic pitch competitions demonstrating the latest health solutions, insightful discussions, and personalized opportunities to connect with influential figures in the healthcare sector.
Blair Dawson, Vice President of Growth Programs & CX at Informa, expressed excitement about John's role, emphasizing how his entrepreneurial insights can elevate the discourse among participants, helping them navigate the confluence of capital, technology, and leadership to propel healthcare forward.
The HIMSS26 Emerge Experience will feature a comprehensive agenda tailored to meet pressing industry challenges over the next one to three years. Highlights include:
- - Investor-Focused Keynotes and Panels: Discussions on market trends, healthcare venture fiscal strategies, and potential partnerships that could define future growth in the industry.
- - Live Startup Pitch Showcases: Platforms for early-stage and growth-stage companies to unveil innovative solutions across various domains, including digital health, AI, and cybersecurity, with recognition awarded across three categories: Best in Show, Winners Circle, and Finalists.
- - One-to-One Matchmaking Sessions: Personalized interactions designed to connect startup founders with investors and health system leaders, facilitating significant collaborations.
- - Roundtables for Founders and Investors: Encouraging open dialogue on aspects such as funding readiness, commercialization prospects, and strategic growth initiatives.
- - Curated Networking Experiences: Creating opportunities for professionals to engage in meaningful interactions, enhancing relationships between innovators, executives, and capital providers.
The event will also feature a session led by Stephen Konya, Chief of Innovation and Strategic Partnerships at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. His talk will focus on practical approaches to bridge the gap between policy and practical implementation while utilizing federal interoperability tools to ease integration challenges.
With support from partners like Troutman Pepper Locke, First Analysis, and others, the HIMSS26 Emerge Experience stands as a valuable opportunity for stakeholders in the healthcare innovation ecosystem. Registration for HIMSS26, including access to the Emerge Experience Pass, is currently available online.
For more details, visit
HIMSS Conference.
About HIMSS
The Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society (HIMSS) is committed to reforming the global healthcare ecosystem through the innovative use of information and technology. As a member-driven nonprofit organization, HIMSS provides excellence in health innovation, public policy, workforce development, and much more to an array of healthcare providers and organizations globally.
About Informa Connect
Informa Connect is a specialist in live events and digital platforms, dedicated to connecting professionals across various sectors, focusing on the healthcare and life sciences industry. By offering content-rich experiences and networking opportunities, Informa Connect supports professionals in accessing the knowledge and relationships necessary for growth.