SBC Summit Malta returns to the InterContinental Hotel from 28 to 30 April 2026.
As a key meeting point for the European gaming industry, the event will bring together thousands of stakeholders for three days of learning, networking, and product discovery.
But here’s the thing. Whether you are a seasoned attendee or joining your first SBC event, there is always something you have missed.
Maybe you didn’t realise that operators and affiliates attend for free. Or perhaps you’re unaware of the new pre-event networking experiences on offer. Either way, keeping up with every announcement is no easy task.
So to help you get the most out of your time at the event, here are eight things you probably didn’t know about SBC Summit Malta, but will definitely be glad you do.
1. Operators and affiliates attend for free
Operators and affiliates sit at the heart of the industry, driving player engagement and turning products into real experiences. Without them, there’s a chance you wouldn’t be reading this now.
That is why they can attend SBC Summit Malta for free.
And not only that, they get VIP event passes, meaning they have access to EVERYTHING the event has to offer. That means access to all evening networking, our two-day conference programme, and the show floor, all free of charge.
And if you’re a supplier, the value is just as strong. Free attendance means higher buyer attendance. In 2026, the event will welcome 2,000 operator representatives and 1,000 affiliates, making it one of the most operator and affiliate-rich gatherings dedicated to the region. In other words, more decision makers, more deal makers, and more partners who can take products to market.
If you’re an operator, apply for a free ticket here. | If you’re an affiliate, apply for a free ticket here.
2. You can start networking right NOW with the SBC Connect app
The SBC Connect app might just be the most powerful tool SBC Summit Malta has to offer.
Why? Because it makes networking easier than ever, with built-in attendee lists, messaging capabilities, and even a meeting planner.
And the best bit is that the app opens five weeks ahead of the event. This means you can already start reaching out to potential leads right now. This second!
Not only does this give you a head start in the networking race, but it means you arrive at the event stress-free with introductions made, meetings booked, and a clear plan in place.
Here are some of the most useful networking features:
- Attendee List: See exactly who is attending before you arrive. Identify key contacts and plan your outreach in advance.
- Exhibitor List: Find the companies that matter to you, complete with stand numbers and key details, so you can navigate the floor with purpose.
- Advanced Search: Filter delegates by job title, company, and more to connect with the people that align with your goals.
- Private Chat: Start conversations instantly and keep them going before, during, and after the event. (Please note: Access to this feature varies by ticket type. Find out more via our dedicated blog here.)
- Meeting Planner: Schedule meetings ahead of time and build a structured, productive event schedule.
Beyond networking, the app also keeps your entire event experience in one place. You can explore the agenda, save your favourite sessions, view the floor plan, and receive real-time updates so you never miss a moment.
If you are registered, you can download the SBC Connect app now on iOS and Android and start making the event work for you before it even begins.
3. Experience our new lineup of pre-event networking
For 2026, SBC Summit Malta has introduced a brand new lineup of pre-event networking experiences, all taking place on Tuesday, 27 April.
These experiences are designed to help you build more authentic connections before the main event begins, in environments where conversations feel natural and unforced.
Here is what is on offer:
- Golf Tournament: An invite-only tournament for C-level leaders, offering a morning of 18 holes at one of Europe’s oldest golf courses. The game’s unhurried pace creates space for natural conversation in a relaxed, hospitality-led setting. (This is an invite-only event. Contact your SBC account manager for access.)
- Boat Party: A full day on the water with food, drinks, music, and the Maltese coastline as the backdrop. Open to all delegates, the boat party offers a more relaxed setting where conversations can develop more easily and continue long after the day ends. (This is an invite-only event. Contact your SBC account manager for access.)
- Padel Tournament: A fast-paced tournament built around teamwork and friendly competition. Open to all delegates, it removes barriers, makes introductions easier, and turns networking into something genuinely enjoyable. (Registration is now full.)
View the full event schedule here.
4. You can collect your badge early and skip day one queues
With thousands of professionals set to attend, the opening morning can quickly shift from excited momentum to wasting precious minutes waiting in line.
That is why delegates have two opportunities to collect their badge ahead of the main event on Tuesday, 28 April.
- InterContinental Hotel: 12:00 to 17:00 at the main registration area.
- Opening Party (Location: LUMI at VOCO Hotel, 19:00 to 01:00): Pick up your badge while catching up with industry peers and enjoying a few drinks before the event kicks off! (VIP pass holders only)
5. We have not one. Not two. But THREE networking parties!
If you are a VIP pass holder (including operator & affiliate pass holders), congrats, you have access to SBC Summit Malta’s evening networking events.
Across three nights, you’ll have the chance to take conversations away from the show floor and into spaces where conversations feel more relaxed and genuine.
No rushing between meetings or competing for attention on the show floor, just good music, beautiful venues, and the time to actually talk.
- Opening Party: Tuesday, 28 April at LUMI
- Official Party: Wednesday, 29 April at Infinity by Hugo
- Closing Party and SBC Awards Europe After Party: Thursday, 30 April at Open Waters
With each day ending in a different networking moment, you have the chance to make early introductions, reconnect with people you met during the day, and finish the event on a strong note. By the time you leave, you won’t be just another name in someone’s inbox. You are someone they remember.
View the full event schedule here.
6. We reworked our conference programme
SBC Summit Malta’s conference programme has long been a favourite among attendees. It is known for expert speakers and conversations that go beyond surface-level talk.
But listening only takes you so far. Sometimes, real value comes from getting involved. And it’s that thinking that led us to rework day two of the conference to focus almost entirely on workshops.
Built for participation, you can exchange ideas with peers, challenge different approaches, and work through frameworks that can be applied directly to your day-to-day role. You also get the chance to speak openly with the experts leading each session.
You can attend workshops covering marketing, igaming and sports betting, and operations and compliance, alongside two dedicated workshop rooms focused on key areas such as market disruption, policy and PR, affiliation, and future-ready leadership.
Workshops include:
- AI & Data-Driven Marketing — How to Build Smarter Campaigns
- Building a World Cup Tournament Model: From Ratings to Outrights
- Google Can’t Keep Up: Parasite SEO, Canonical Abuse & Code Injections are Ranking!
- Resilience in Leadership
- Inside Black-Hat SEO: How It’s Done (and How Safe It Really Is)
View the full conference agenda here.
7. Free Food & Drink
Did you know that VIP pass holders, including operators and affiliates, receive complimentary breakfast and lunch throughout the event?
That’s right! Food and drink, for two days, without a penny spent, what a nice little touch!
With dedicated catering areas across the venue and an incredible range of fresh and tasty food, you will always have space to pause, recharge, and continue conversations in a more relaxed setting.
8. SBC Awards Europe returns
Following a successful debut, SBC Awards Europe is back.
Taking place on 30 April at Xara Lodge, the ceremony will bring together 400 industry professionals to celebrate achievements across European sports betting and igaming.
Expect 35 award categories, a three-course dinner, and an evening built around recognition and community.
Entry to the SBC Awards Europe ceremony requires a separate ticket. Purchase your seat today by clicking here.
Final Thoughts
From free access for operators and affiliates to early networking through the SBC Connect app, every detail of SBC Summit Malta is designed to help you get more value.
However, the difference between attending and truly benefiting often comes down to what you know before you arrive. With the right preparation, the right tools, and a clear plan, SBC Summit Malta becomes far more than a date in your calendar. It becomes a catalyst for new partnerships and long-term growth.
Now that you know what others might miss, the only thing left to do is make it count.
Get Your Tickets to SBC Summit Malta
Secure your spot at SBC Summit Malta with our VIP Event Pass. Priced at €600, you’ll gain access to everything SBC Summit Malta has to offer, including three days of networking, conference, and exhibition.
Group Pass (3+): Are you attending the event with your team? Consider the Group Pass offer! For bookings of three or more, each VIP Event Pass will be priced at just €400.
Want an Expo+ Pass? It’s yours for €150.
If you are an operator or affiliate, you can apply for a free pass!
