Affiliate Leaders Summit 2025 returns with new awards program, extended format in Lisbon

The Affiliate Leaders Summit will return to the Feira Internacional de Lisboa (FIL) from September 16 to 18, featuring an expanded three-day format and introducing the inaugural Affiliate Leaders Awards.

The event, held alongside the SBC Summit, will continue as a standalone platform for affiliates, affiliate managers, and service providers. The aim is to provide a more targeted networking and learning experience, with a dedicated content stage and curated audience.

Organizers expect an audience of 3,500 affiliates and 8,000 operator representatives, all of whom will also have access to SBC Summit features, including the main expo floor, evening networking events, and keynote sessions on the Super Stage, including a presentation from entrepreneur Gary Vaynerchuk.

New awards program and extended schedule

“The response was incredible, but we knew we could do even more. That’s why this year, we’re giving it the time it deserves; three full days to ensure attendees can take in everything this event has to offer,” said Rasmus Sojmark, founder and CEO of SBC.

“We’re also introducing the Affiliate Leaders Awards, which I’m personally very excited about,” Sojmark added. “Affiliates play a vital role in this industry, and it’s time we had a platform that truly celebrates their work alongside the operator programmes and suppliers who help make it all happen.”

The introduction of the awards program accompanies a 40% expansion of the 2025 show floor. Last year’s event received net promoter scores of 79 from affiliates and 68 from operators. Confirmed exhibitors include Catena Media, Clever Advertising, Evoke, Flashscore, Kaizen Gaming, Medier, Megapari, Novibet, and Shake.

Conference sessions on tech, strategy, and market trends

On the conference side, the Affiliate Leaders Stage will present a three-day schedule focusing on affiliate marketing and technology developments. Sessions will explore martech tools, SEO strategies, AI, automation, CRM, and transparency in affiliate content.

Speakers at the conference will include Jonathan Edelshaim (CEO, Natural Intelligence), Elaine Gardiner-Ruddock (Managing Director, TAG Media), Peter Gunni (CEO, Traffic Lab), Filip Komljenovic (Head of Sales, Sofascore), Deb Lee (Director of AI & Data Operations, CILA, Entain), Andre Machado (CCO, Clever Advertising), Leanne Muleba (COO, Matching Visions), and Johan Styren (CEO & Co-founder, Dilanti Media).

In addition to the Affiliate Leaders Stage and Super Stage, attendees will have access to sessions on the Global Markets and Emerging Markets stages, both designed to support cross-border affiliate and operator strategies.

Networking and access options

Affiliate Leaders Summit participants will receive complimentary access to evening networking events, including an opening party featuring Joel Corry and Imanbek, as well as the return of INFINITY Lisbon, with performances by Alok and Timmy Trumpet.

“The Affiliate Leaders Summit is designed to make networking easier by giving you a dedicated space to connect,” Sojmark said. “But the hospitality doesn’t stop there. You’re part of the full SBC Summit experience.

"With access to all six stages, complimentary food and drinks at the Food Festival, and the freedom to explore every area of the event, you’re welcome to engage as widely as you like. The Affiliate Leaders Summit simply helps you focus your efforts where they matter most.”

Pass options for attendees

• Affiliate/Operator Pass: Free access to all sessions, expo areas, and networking events.
• VIP Event Pass: Full access to all conference sessions, networking parties, food festival (€30 wristband), and post-event digital content.
• Group VIP Pass (€400 each): Available for groups purchasing three or more VIP passes.
• Expo+ Pass: Includes exhibition floor and all sessions, excluding VIP networking events.
• Expo Only Pass: Free access to the expo floor without conference session entry.

Learn more about ticket options here.