How to Prepare for RFTB 2026

With only a week to go, we’ve put some tips together to help you make the most out of Run For The Border this year:

1. Be memorable!

There are 250 people coming to RFTB 2026… how are you going to remember them all? How are they going to remember you? And I'm not talking about "wear a funky shirt" although that's a good start.

You need a dependable method to keep the conversation going after the buses all go home. Do you have a LinkedIn account? Do you keep all your business contacts in WhatsApp? Do you have a soft spot for the classic business card? What about a QR code tattooed on the back of your neck?

Whatever. Find something that works for you so you neither forget nor are forgotten.

2. Know why you are coming.

Are you looking for a job? Staff? Advice? Funding? Inspiration? Long distance friendship with no strings attached?

All of those things can be found at RFTB, but if you don’t make the effort, you won’t find them. Not everyone is there with a laser-focused goal, but if you are don’t be shy about it. You don’t ask, you don’t get.

3. Issue a challenge.

We get it: Networking isn’t for everyone, and sometimes it’s tricky stepping outside your comfort zone. If this sounds like you, set yourself some achievements to unlock. Like “I’m going to meet 5 people from 5 different cities” or “I’m going to collect as many audio contacts as I can”. Maybe even have a few conversation starters prepared?

If it takes gamification to get you talking, then you'd better get gamificatin'. You’ll be glad you played.

4. Bring your A-Game.

RFTB doesn’t have a demo area or an expo, but it’s inevitable that someone will ask you what you’re working on. Don’t get caught empty handed - bring a few screenshots or a demo video on your phone. Better to have them and not need them, right?

Also, use RFTB to practice your 30-second elevator pitch. Especially if you're off to Develop or Gamescom this summer. The more you talk about your game here, the easier it is to talk about it over there.

5. Participate!

RFTB is specifically designed for individuals, communities and countries to cross-pollinate. Everyone is there to meet new people, and the event provides loads of methods to open new opportunities - trading cards, conversation cards, a bus quiz, and even a First Timer’s Table (new this year).

In the words of Morpheus, we can only show you the door; you’re the one that has to walk through it.

A few more practical tips for the big day:

• Check the weather to dress appropriately. The venue has both indoor and outdoor spaces.
  

• If you’re on a coach, don’t be late! Get to the meeting point early, and start making contacts immediately.
  

• Bring water and lunch for the roadtrip. It’s a long day between the early departure and the 5pm meal. You’ll thank yourself for your forethought. 
  

• Bring whatever you need to stay fresh and focused. Even with a Quiet Room for social battery recharge, it can be a very long day.
  

• Make sure you’ve got a way to get home safely from your final drop point. Taxis are scarce on Friday at midnight… think ahead!
  

• Take loads of photos, and tag everything with #RFTB2026

That’s all for now. See you soon!