Early detection of new invasive alien species is the most effective approach to reduce the negative impact of biological invasions, but remains a complex challenge that requires a multidisciplinary approach, spanning across various fields of research. Recent advances in ecological modelling (in particular horizon scanning) are providing new opportunities to support early detection and to anticipate current and future spread patterns of invasive alien plants. Field observations, whether from experts or citizen science, combined with taxonomic knowledge and insights into species’ biological traits, offer valuable data to inform species distribution models. Integrating these elements helps to identify emerging threats and generate targeted preventive measures; at the same time it contributes to increasing our understanding of ecological processes that enable alien species integration in ecosystems. In this satellite event, we aim to present and discuss the opportunities and challenges linked to each of these components, to foster the dialogue across disciplines and therefore strengthen the scientific basis of the national scheme for assessing the invasive potential of alien plants in Switzerland.