Innovate Track: Breakout 2 | 11:30 a.m.
Building Belonging: The Business Value of Community-Driven Technology
Technology is changing the way organizations connect with people, creating opportunities to transform audiences from passive observers into active participants. From stadium-scale augmented reality experiences that bring thousands together to interactive activations that inspire connection and belonging, emerging technologies are reshaping how communities engage with brands, places and one another.
This session explores how businesses can use technology to build stronger communities, deepen customer engagement and create lasting emotional connections. Attendees will learn how innovative experiences can strengthen brand identity, foster loyalty and support meaningful social impact while aligning with business goals. Through real-world examples, we’ll explore practical ways organizations can leverage emerging technologies to create experiences that bring people together and generate value for both their communities and their companies.
About Dana
Dana Ware is founder and CEO of Hidden Realities, an immersive technology studio creating augmented reality experiences that transform physical spaces into interactive story worlds. A pioneer in large-scale spatial entertainment, Ware has led the development of multiplayer AR platforms capable of synchronizing tens of thousands of participants in real time across stadiums, live events and public spaces.
Previously, Ware served as creative director at The VOID, where she helped shape the emerging field of location-based virtual reality through collaborations with Disney, ILMxLab and Sony. Her work bridges storytelling, game technology and real-world environments to create experiences that blend digital and physical spaces in new ways.
Based in Utah, Ware is passionate about growing the state’s creative technology ecosystem and supporting the next generation of immersive creators. She serves as chair of the IGDA Women in Games+ Special Interest Group and advises the Future Realities Summit at the Game Developers Conference. Through her leadership, Ware advocates for innovation, accessibility and inclusive representation within the gaming and immersive technology industries.