THE LIGHT HOUSE 2026: Love is our LLM

THE LIGHT HOUSE 2026: Love is our LLM

The BelmontAustin, TX
Friday, Mar 13 at 12 pm to Saturday, Mar 14 at 12 am
Overview

Join leaders for two days of connection focused on people-centered tech. This year we ask: What if love, not extraction, guided innovation?

For the fourth year in a row, THE LIGHT HOUSE is back with two days filled with inspiring talks, immersive activations, and exciting entertainment. THE LIGHT HOUSE is where we find each other, build together, and leave with the collaborations that will shape what comes next.

In an era of artificial intelligence, we're centering a different kind of intelligence: the collective, connective, caring kind. Love is our LLM is a call to action to collectively reimagine an operating system for building technology that truly serves people and communities.

Join leaders for two days of connection focused on people-centered tech. This year we ask: What if love, not extraction, guided innovation?

For the fourth year in a row, THE LIGHT HOUSE is back with two days filled with inspiring talks, immersive activations, and exciting entertainment. THE LIGHT HOUSE is where we find each other, build together, and leave with the collaborations that will shape what comes next.

In an era of artificial intelligence, we're centering a different kind of intelligence: the collective, connective, caring kind. Love is our LLM is a call to action to collectively reimagine an operating system for building technology that truly serves people and communities.

The Tech We Want is a responsible innovation platform and network for tech visionaries, operators, and champions who are building an alternative tech economy rooted in shared power and prosperity.

We believe technology must serve human needs and collective purpose, not just corporate profit. We're shifting the narrative from extractive and profit-driven toward human-centered, distributive, and collectively beneficial models.

Alongside Omidyar Network,The Tech We Want and our partners, THE LIGHT HOUSE advances a vision of a tech ecosystem that puts people at the center, empowering everyone to shape our collective technological future.

SCHEDULE

March 13-14, 2026 | 12:00 noon - 7PM

Our program is always about putting humans at the center of technology, not the other way around.

Expect a dynamic mix of panels featuring movement leaders, funders, and builders; Lightning Talks that showcase the breadth of responsible innovation work happening right now; and interactive moments designed to spark real connection.

We'll have activations throughout the space, our beloved Library of the Future stocked with books that fuel our imaginations, and plenty of time built in for the conversations that happen between sessions.

Full programming details drop soon (but if past years are any indication, you'll want to clear your schedule!)


LIGHTS OUT! Closing Party on March 14, 2026



Get ready for an unforgettable night at The Belmont! This is your chance to let loose and connect with friends and allies from the responsible innovation movement like never before. Say goodbye to the networking grind and embrace a lively evening of fun and celebration!

At Lights Out!, we’ll dim the lights and pump up the energy on the dance floor! Local legend DJ Kickit will be spinning the hottest throwbacks and latest hits, creating the perfect vibe for mingling with fellow tech enthusiasts.

Join in the excitement with our fan-favorite Karaoke stage, the LIGHT HOUSE Tech Bingo Prize Bar featuring special The Tech We Want collaboration swag from Austin artist FEEBEE, and a brand new mirror photobooth that’s sure to capture all the fun moments. Don’t miss out on the chance to shake off the day and revel in the best wrap party in Austin! Let's make some amazing memories together!

The Company We Keep:

You've spent two days in rooms full of people who actually believe technology can serve humanity. That's rare, and worth celebrating. LIGHTS OUT! is where we let loose with fellow believers: the funders, builders, dreamers, and troublemakers who know that responsible innovation and a good time aren't mutually exclusive.

What to wear?

Show us your spirit and come dressed as your own biggest fan! This is a space where you can express yourself in a festive and celebratory way. We encourage you to wear your most fun and vibrant clothes, something that you feel comfortable hitting the dancefloor in or taking a memorable glamor shot in our photo booth. Who knows, there might even be a prize for best-dressed!

What's happening in our space:

Join us for an electrifying night with local legend DJ Kickit spinning the hottest throwbacks and latest hits, setting the perfect vibe for mingling with fellow tech enthusiasts. Enjoy our fan-favorite Karaoke stage, the LIGHT HOUSE Tech Bingo Prize Bar featuring exclusive swag from Austin artist FEEBEE, and a brand new mirror photobooth to capture all the fun.

Terms

Your registration does not guarantee timely admission to the event. Space may be limited and there may be a delay in entry to the venue, subject to capacity. We have the right to refuse admittance to anyone for any reason.

This event will have flashing or strobe lights and loud music.

All participants must be 21 or older and provide valid ID upon entry.

When you attend this event, you enter an area where photography, audio, and video recording may occur. By entering the event premises, you consent to such recording media and its release, publication, exhibition or reproduction.

Disclaimer

ASSUMPTION OF RISKS: In consideration of your participation in THE LIGHT HOUSE, you acknowledge that you am aware of the possible risks, dangers, and hazards associated with your participation in THE LIGHT HOUSE, (including the possible risk of severe or fatal injury to yourself or others). These risks include but are not limited to the following:

The risks associated with travel to and from the venue, including transportation provided by commercial, private and/or public motor vehicles;

Intoxication and/or alcohol poisoning from the alcohol you consume whether voluntarily or through coercion;

The possibility of bodily injury (broken bones and soft tissue damage) including dental damages from falling down, being knocked down or being involved in a physical confrontation whether caused by you or someone else;

The risks associated with returning to your residence.

Acknowledgement

By registering for this event, you acknowledge that you have read this agreement, that you are executing this agreement voluntarily, and that this agreement is to be binding upon you, your heirs, executors, administrators and representatives, in the event of an accident.


Good to know

Highlights

  • 12 hours
  • In person

Location

The Belmont

305 West 6th Street

Austin, TX 78701

How do you want to get there?

Map

Agenda

-

Doors Open

-

Welcome to the Main Stage!

Join us as we kick off **THE LIGHT HOUSE 2026**, where we embark on a journey to make responsible innovation the standard in technology! Leaders from Omidyar and The Tech We Want will share their insights on the vital role of fostering human connection, enhancing participant experiences, and nurturing genuine collaboration. Let’s come together to celebrate these values as we pave the way for a brighter, more equitable tech future!

-

Fishbowl Discussion 1- What's Tech Got To Do With It?

Featuring thought leaders: Van Jones, Shameik Moore, Michele Jawando, and Phonz Terrell. Explore the importance of responsible tech and how we can bring it from the edges to the center of our lives. This session dives into the challenges faced by tech product builders and innovators who prioritize values like privacy, equity, and community benefit. Join a rich discussion with builders, advocates, and everyday tech users as we consider what it takes for responsible tech to become the standard instead of an exception. Together, we can envision a better tech future.

Frequently asked questions
Organized by
The Tech We Want
Followers--
Events7
Hosting3 years
Report this event