The Digital Preservation “Bake Off” has become one of the most anticipated and distinctive parts of the iPRES programme. Blending live demonstrations, practical problem-solving, and a healthy dose of baking-themed puns, the Bake Off offers digital preservation practitioners the chance to showcase how their tools and workflows perform against actual challenges.

So, how does it work?

Unlike a traditional conference presentation, the Bake Off is deliberately hands-on. Participants – our ‘Bakers’ – receive a shared set of files and requirements known as ‘The Pantry’ ahead of the event. They then demonstrate live how their chosen solution addresses the challenge within a tightly timed ten-minute showcase. From lightweight scripts and ingenious workflows to enterprise-scale preservation systems, the session is designed to celebrate practical ingenuity throughout. 

An opportunity to test and share in real time

The Digital Preservation Bake Off continues to demonstrate several defining strengths of our sector: open knowledge sharing, experimenting collaboratively, and learning from real-world practice. Whether the solution is a carefully crafted workflow, a small and effective script, or a polished professional platform, the Bake Off creates space for practical innovation to escape the home kitchen. 

For prospective Bakers, the session offers more than just a live demonstration opportunity. It is a chance to test approaches against common preservation challenges, exchange ideas, and contribute directly to conversations happening in the sector. And for attendees, it remains one of the most engaging ways to see preservation tools and workflows operating in real time, and to celebrate home-baked wins. 

Learn more and join in

Submissions for the iPRES 2026 Digital Preservation Bake Off are open and close on 8 June 2026. Further details, submission guidance, and information about the Bake Off tracks are available on the website or in the FAQ.