Call to Host the International Semantic Web Conference

The Semantic Web Science Association (SWSA) is seeking statements of interest from organizations or consortia interested in hosting the 26th International Semantic Web Conference, ISWC 2028. The conference series usually moves regularly between the Americas, Europe, and the Asia/Pacific region. For the 2028 edition, we will accept bids from all locations, but we will give preference to bids from Asia. We expect the conference to take place in October/November 2028.

Organizations wishing to host it should contact Prof Elena Simperl who will work with the SWSA members to coordinate the bidding process. Any organization may apply to host the conference, but the local organizing committee must include a representative of a local research group with a track record in semantic technologies.

The process consists of two stages. During the first stage, SWSA solicits the statements of interest through an open call. They should be submitted using the statement of interest form and be sent to Prof Elena Simperl.

Once the first phase is complete, SWSA will shortlist a number of applications. The shortlisted applicants will be invited to submit a full proposal, which includes an application form and budget. These materials are also to be sent to Prof Elena Simperl. The shortlisted applicants will be expected to make a presentation (remotely) during the annual SWSA meeting, which is held around the same time as ISWC2026 in November 2026. SWSA will make the decision on the 2028 host at that meeting and applicants will be notified shortly after. 

More information about the ISWC Conference Series and the bidding process for hosting a conference in the series can be found in the ISWC Hosting Guide and general guidelines.

The important dates for applying to host ISWC2028 are:

  • September 7th, 2026: Deadline for receiving statements of interest.
  • September 21st, 2026: Notifications to shortlisted bids are sent out.
  • October 12th, 2026:  Formal applications received from shortlisted bids.
  • November/December 2026: Presentation of the bid at the (virtual) SWSA meeting. SWSA decides on the location for the 2028 conference.