Title
Participation at Consumer Electronics Show (Ordinance S-53181) - Citywide
Description
Request to authorize City Manager, or the City Manager's designee, to take all actions necessary for the City to participate in the 2027 Consumer Electronics Show (CES 2027) in Las Vegas from January 6 through 9, 2027. Further request authorization for the City Treasurer to accept funds from participating booth sponsors to offset costs associated with CES 2027 convention expenses, and for the City Controller to disburse funds associated with this request. The total value of CES 2027 convention efforts will not exceed $60,000.
Report
Summary
Phoenix first attended CES in January 2025 with a delegation of more than 20 members, including representatives from multiple start-ups, established businesses, higher education, and regional and state partners. These organizations received tremendous exposure, including media attention, and secured contacts that have helped them establish funding sources and new customers. As a U.S. city participant, Phoenix was part of the CES Global Village, further establishing the City as a technology-forward community that competes on an international stage. Significant interest and success from last year's participation has led Phoenix to pursue continued attendance in this global event, which saw over 148,000 attendees last year.
During the January 2026 event, staff attended more than 250 meetings with U.S. and international companies, many of which are considering expanding or relocating in the United States. Staff was also able to make connections for existing Phoenix businesses looking for partnership, funding, or collaboration opportunities.
Staff presented in several forums that showcased Phoenix as a thriving technology and entrepreneurial hub to attract companies and skilled workers. The CES event provides staff the opportunity to attract new businesses, secure investments, and promote the City's innovative ecosystem. This trade show also provides a location to meet with startups, investors, and Fortune 500 companies in one location, connecting with decision makers who will determine the next expansion and relocation sites for their respective businesses.
Phoenix’s continued presence at CES 2027 will help to further strengthen the City’s reputation as a technology-forward community, while supporting local businesses in showcasing their products and capabilities. This participation directly aligns with Phoenix's efforts to attract and expand technology companies, demonstrating why the City is the premier destination for world-class business. Over 20 companies attended the CES 2026 City of Phoenix delegation last year and staff is currently working with early stage companies for participation at CES 2027. Attending with the City benefits companies by increased media exposure and customer growth, networking within their industry, and access to capital and potential investors. This investment will assist the Community and Economic Development Department (CEDD) to provide growth opportunities to Phoenix companies attending with the delegation and continue to generate qualified prospects and expand the pipeline of businesses considering expansions and/or relocations to Phoenix through a multi-faceted marketing approach targeted at high-wage, high-tech companies.
CES 2027 is focused on artificial intelligence (AI), digital health, vehicle technology, and advanced air mobility, aligning with Phoenix's strategic attraction efforts.
Financial Impact
Funding to participate in CES 2027 will not exceed $60,000. Funding is available in the CEDD's operating budget and will look to reduce the City's cost by finding sponsors to participate in our booth.
Department
Responsible Department
This item is submitted by Assistant City Manager Ginger Spencer and the Community and Economic Development Department.