The intersection of artificial intelligence and digital marketing has become the defining challenge for businesses in 2026 — and San Diego’s networking community is responding with a dedicated summit that promises practical strategies, not just theory. With AI reshaping how companies reach customers and build brands, the upcoming event brings together eight specialists to help professionals navigate this transformation.
Digital Marketing & AI Summit on November 19th will be Featuring Leading Marketing Experts, AI Innovators and Business Strategists
SD Networking Events is San Diego Fastest Growing Business Networking Community. We Host Mixers, Expos, Summits, Speed Networking, Live Music Events and Networking Bay Cruises.— James Hickey
San Diego, California Oct 30, 2026 – The city is set to welcome the Digital Marketing & AI Summit on November 19, an event designed for professionals eager to stay ahead of the curve in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.
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Organized by SD Networking Events, the gathering will unite entrepreneurs, executives, and industry professionals for an evening focused on advanced marketing tactics, artificial intelligence applications, and meaningful business connections.
With AI fundamentally changing how companies attract customers, build brand presence, and compete online, SD Networking Events has assembled a notable roster of experts for the Digital Marketing & AI Summit 2026. The event takes place Thursday, November 19th, from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM at UC San Diego Park & Market in Downtown San Diego.
The organization was founded by James Hickey, a long-time digital marketing strategist and entrepreneur whose SD Networking Events operation has grown steadily into a key player in San Diego’s professional community. The group regularly hosts business mixers, industry summits, and executive gatherings across the region.
The November 19th program will examine how businesses can apply artificial intelligence, digital advertising, video content, automation, and new technologies to accelerate growth and stay competitive in an economy increasingly driven by AI.
An Impressive Lineup of Marketing and AI Experts
Attendees will hear from a diverse group of entrepreneurs, marketing strategists, technology innovators, and business leaders, including:
- James Hickey – Founder of SD Networking Events and JMH Marketing Group, with more than 18 years of experience in digital and social media marketing.
- Mark Harbert – Video Marketing Strategist specializing in using video to build brands, engage audiences, and drive business growth.
- Deb Cole – Founder of AI Chillify™, focused on attracting customers, automating business processes, and increasing profitability through AI.
- Joel Otterstrom – Founder of TREND, bringing insights into modern digital marketing and business growth strategies.
- David Esau – Click Track Marketing, specializing in digital marketing strategies and performance-driven campaigns.
- Dr. Shyla Day – Influencer and entrepreneur bringing perspectives on personal branding, audience development, and digital influence.
- Melisa Ruscsak – Author, speaker, and founder of Creative Visionary.
- Devin Pickell – Co-Founder of Creative Little Planet, offering insights into creative marketing, branding, and digital innovation.
Helping San Diego Businesses Navigate the AI Revolution
Artificial intelligence is rapidly transforming how companies approach marketing, customer engagement, content creation, and day-to-day operations. The summit is designed to close the gap between emerging technologies and practical business use, providing attendees with actionable takeaways they can apply immediately.
“Artificial intelligence is fundamentally changing the digital marketing industry, and business owners need to understand how to take advantage of these opportunities,” said James Hickey, Founder of SD Networking Events.
“Our goal is to bring together some of the brightest minds in digital marketing and AI, provide actionable strategies, and create an environment where entrepreneurs can build meaningful relationships. This isn’t just another conference. It’s an opportunity to learn, network, and discover new ways to grow your business.”
More Than a Conference: A Powerful Business Networking Experience
Beyond the presentations, the summit will include a business expo and dedicated time for attendees to connect with entrepreneurs, marketing professionals, technology companies, and decision-makers. The event is tailored for business owners, executives, startups, digital marketers, content creators, consultants, and anyone interested in the future of AI and digital marketing.
The four-hour agenda blends educational sessions, professional networking, and a chance to explore innovative products, services, and business solutions.
Event Details
Event: Digital Marketing & AI Summit 2026
Date: Thursday, November 19th, 2026
Time: 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM PST
Location: UC San Diego Park & Market, 1st Floor
Address: 1100 Market Street, San Diego, CA 92101
Organizer: SD Networking Events
Tickets and Registration: https://digitalmarketingsummit2026.eventbrite.com
Advance discounted tickets are currently being promoted, and early registration is encouraged.
About SD Networking Events
Founded in 2021 by entrepreneur and digital marketing strategist James Hickey, SD Networking Events is a San Diego-based professional networking organization dedicated to connecting entrepreneurs, business owners, executives, and industry leaders. Through business mixers, educational summits, expos, and specialty networking experiences, the organization creates opportunities for professionals to build relationships, develop partnerships, and grow their businesses.
SD Networking Events is expanding its programming for 2027, including the introduction of Speed Networking LIVE and a new business networking and live music series. For more information, visit www.sdnetworkingevents.com.
Media Contact
James Hickey
Founder, SD Networking Events
Founder, JMH Marketing Group
Website: www.sdnetworkingevents.com
Event Registration: https://digitalmarketingsummit2026.eventbrite.com
Email: james@sdnetworkingevents.com
Phone: 619-254-8170
High-resolution event graphics, speaker information, and photographs are available for media coverage.
James Hickey
SD Networking Events
+1 619-254-8170
sdnetworkingevents@gmail.com
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Why it matters: As AI tools become standard in marketing, events like this give local business owners a chance to learn directly from experts rather than navigating the technology alone. The summit’s focus on practical applications and networking could help San Diego companies adopt AI strategies faster and build the partnerships needed to compete in a digital-first economy.
