Batumi will host AD BLACK SEA 2026, one of the region’s most important international events for the creative industry, from September 10–12. Celebrating its 10th anniversary, the festival will once again bring together leading creative professionals, marketers, designers, and representatives of the technology industry from around the world.
TBC has been a steadfast partner of AD BLACK SEA for the past decade. Since the festival was first established, TBC has believed that a strong creative industry is an important foundation for the country’s development, innovation, and economic progress. This is why TBC continues to support platforms that foster new ideas, encourage creative thinking, and create opportunities for international collaboration.
As part of this year’s festival, TBC will once again present the Young Creative category, marking the fourth consecutive year of the initiative. The award aims to open new international professional development opportunities for Georgia’s most promising young creative talent. Applications will be accepted until August 27.
“For ten years, together with AD BLACK SEA, we have been creating a space where new ideas emerge and members of the professional community can share their experience. We believe in the power of creativity to transform people, businesses, and the environment for the better. That is why we support those who drive this transformation. The Young Creative category is a continuation of this belief: we want to help the new generation of Georgian creatives gain access to the international stage and unlock their full potential,” said Makuna Tavberidze, TBC’s Marketing and Brand Experience Lead.
The three-day festival will also feature its traditional international creative competition. More than 30 international jury members from over 20 countries will evaluate the region’s most creative campaigns and projects across 13 main categories.
This year’s festival concept, “ON THE EDGE,” reflects the transitional state in which the world, countries, the creative industry, and individuals find themselves today. Being “on the edge” represents a space where change begins, while uncertainty becomes a source of new ideas and innovation. It is precisely on this edge that what once seemed impossible can emerge.
AD BLACK SEA provides an opportunity for everyone interested in the creative industry to explore the latest trends, deepen their professional knowledge, and connect with leading international professionals and industry experts.
The festival is expected to welcome up to 1,500 Georgian and international delegates. Participants will have the opportunity to hear from prominent leaders of the global creative industry, including David Droga (Accenture), Cindy Gallop (MakeLoveNotPorn), Natasha Jen (Pentagram New York), Mihnea Georgiu (Le Pub), Catalin Dobre (McCann Worldgroup Romania), and Johanna Jaskowska, one of the pioneers of augmented reality and digital art.
The 10th-anniversary edition of AD BLACK SEA once again highlights Georgia’s growing role as an important creative industry hub in the region, while TBC continues to be one of the ecosystem’s most consistent and long-standing supporters.
