TABA-AmCham successfully hosted the 2026 AmChams in Europe (ACE) Best Practice Sharing Conference (BPSC) from October 7-9, bringing together 54 representatives from 28 AmChams across Europe.
Set against the vibrant backdrop of Istanbul, Türkiye, the conference provided a dynamic platform for dialogue, collaboration, and the exchange of best practices, reinforcing the shared commitment to strengthening the AmChams in Europe network and expanding its impact on the transatlantic business community.
Day 1: Strategy, Dialogue & Connection
The gathering opened with the ACE Board Meeting, followed by brainstorming sessions that enabled members to exchange national perspectives, identify common challenges, and explore opportunities for deeper collaboration. The day concluded with a Gala Dinner featuring remarks by Prof. Dr. Ömer Bolat, Minister of Trade of the Republic of Türkiye, Mehmet Fatih Kacır, Minister of Industry and Technology of the Republic of Türkiye, and Davut Gül, Governor of Istanbul. Their participation underscored the importance of international partnerships and the strength of the transatlantic business community.
Key Highlight: Strengthening strategic alignment, fostering dialogue, and building stronger connections across the ACE network.
Day 2: From Insights to Action
The second day focused on the ACE Benchmark Survey, followed by breakout sessions addressing shared priorities, challenges, and opportunities. These discussions provided participants with valuable insights into both individual and collective performance across the network, helping identify areas for improvement and future collaboration.
The program also featured a high-level discussion on Trade and Political Developments after the NATO Summit, bringing together perspectives from diplomacy, trade, business, and investment. The panel included Bekir Polat, Vice President of the Investment and Finance Office of the Presidency of the Republic of Türkiye, Mustafa Tuzcu, Deputy Minister of Trade of the Republic of Türkiye, H. Ali Özel, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Türkiye, and Demet Sabancı Çetindoğan, Vice Chair of the Board of DEMSA Group.
Delegates were also warmly welcomed at Koleksiyon Mobilya Headquarters, where the company’s hospitality highlighted Türkiye’s role as a strategic bridge for transatlantic cooperation, business development, and investment.
Key Highlight: Transforming shared insights into actionable priorities while exploring the evolving regional landscape and opportunities for enhanced economic cooperation.
Day 3: Creativity, Innovation & Celebration
The closing day celebrated innovation and knowledge-sharing through the ACE Creative Network Presentations, showcasing inspiring projects and best practices from across the network.
AmCham Moldova was announced as the winner of the 2026 ACE Creative Network Award for its flagship initiative, METRIX – Moldovan Economic Transformation and Reform Index. The initiative was recognized for its evidence-based approach to advocacy, its contribution to public-private dialogue, and its potential to support better policymaking and economic competitiveness.
The conference concluded with the Creative Network Awards Ceremony and Reception during a boat cruise on the Bosphorus, providing a memorable setting to celebrate achievements, strengthen relationships, and reflect on the collective impact of the ACE community.
Key Highlight: Celebrating creativity, recognizing impactful initiatives, and sharing best practices that strengthen the entire ACE network.
Three Days. One Network. Greater Impact.
From strategic discussions and policy insights to innovative projects and lasting connections, the 2026 ACE Best Practice Sharing Conference reinforced the importance of collaboration among AmChams across Europe. The gathering concluded with renewed partnerships, fresh perspectives, and a shared commitment to turning ideas into meaningful impact for the business community and the broader transatlantic relationship.
Acknowledgements
AmChams in Europe and all conference participants extend their sincere appreciation to President Süleyman Ecevit Sanlı, Vice President & Secretary General Eren Derinkök, Executive Director Kenan Taban, as well as the dedicated Board Members and staff of TABA-AmCham, for their outstanding organization, warm hospitality, and unwavering commitment to making the 2026 Best Practice Sharing Conference a great success.
Their efforts created an inspiring environment for meaningful dialogue, the exchange of best practices, and the strengthening of partnerships across the ACE network. The conference once again demonstrated the value of collaboration, shared learning, and the strong sense of community that unites AmChams in Europe.
