How to Get the Most Out of IT Arena

Every year, on the last weekend of September, Lviv becomes a hub for the tech industry as thousands of professionals from across the ecosystem gather at IT Arena. For the past 12 years, this flagship event has brought together more than 32,000 attendees, shaping Ukraine’s tech community.

To explore why IT Arena is a must-attend event and how participants can make the most of the experience, we spoke with Illia Kabachynskyi, Editor-in-Chief of Scroll.media — a media platform covering startups, investments, technology companies, and the innovation ecosystem, with a focus on technology-driven businesses.

Connections That Go Beyond the Event

At its core, the IT Arena is about connection — exchanging experiences and meeting people you would rarely encounter elsewhere. That’s why we encourage participants to be as engaged as possible: stay open, check badges carefully, and don’t hesitate to start conversations.

Some of the most valuable outcomes happen spontaneously. At one such event, I met a foreign investor who was just entering the Ukrainian market. What began as a conversation grew into a friendship, and his insights later became invaluable in navigating the defense tech landscape. 

Over time, I also formed lasting relationships with other investors I met at IT Arena. These connections go far beyond the event itself — they turn into long-term partnerships and trusted networks.

High-Level Ideas, Quality Networking

IT Arena has never positioned itself as a one-person event. It’s a dynamic platform where multiple industry-relevant tracks run in parallel, ensuring that everyone around you can become a valuable contact. 

IT Arena 2026 in Lviv will take this experience even further, featuring distinct stages: Business, Product, Dev, Startup, and Defense. From pioneering technologists to disruptive business leaders, each stage brings together top experts who are redefining their industries. 

Personally, I appreciate the conference for bringing together a large number of C-level executives in one place. The atmosphere makes networking almost effortless — you can step out for a quick coffee and return with a new idea, a business agreement, or a deeper understanding of the market.

Packed Program, Live Startup Pitches

The agenda is packed, so choose what excites you most — with stages running simultaneously, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re chasing the latest tech breakthroughs, business insights, or startup innovations, you can tailor your experience to your interests and goals.

One of the event’s highlights is the Startup Competition Finals and Awards, where the brightest minds take the stage to pitch their most innovative ideas live. It’s the perfect chance to see groundbreaking concepts before anyone else. Our tip: arrive early, because the hall fills up quickly.

Informal Settings Where Tech Conversations Continue

Be sure not to miss the official IT Arena afterparties on day one and day two — where connections and conversations continue in a more relaxed setting. And if you’re turning your business trip into a workation, plan ahead by checking out some of the city’s must-see spots. Whether you’re exploring with your team, catching up with old friends, or discovering new connections, there’s plenty to enjoy beyond the event.

One final tip: don’t approach IT Arena as just another work obligation — immerse yourself in the experience. Only here can you start the day with an excellent breakfast, connect with inspiring people over lunch, and end the evening either on the dance floor or in a quiet corner, exploring new partnership opportunities.

IT Arena is more than a tech event — it’s a place to build lasting connections, discover fresh ideas, and experience the tech ecosystem in a dynamic, engaging way. Explore new partnerships, gain insights from industry leaders, or simply enjoy the unique atmosphere — the event has it all. Ready to experience it for yourself? Learn more and secure your spot at itarena.ua