Exhibition and Convention Executives Forum

The Exhibition and Convention Executives Forum (ECEF) is a premier annual event that fosters meaningful connections among 250 executives from associations and independent organizers. This forum has been a keystone for 25 years, providing a platform for executives to exchange insights and opportunities across various business cycles. Attendees can expect an enriching environment where peer exchanges are encouraged, allowing for the sharing of actionable ideas and valuable contacts that will benefit their brands, events, organizations, and careers.

The event is designed to be highly interactive and engaging, ensuring that all participants leave with practical takeaways that can be implemented immediately.

A highlight of ECEF is its focus on nurturing the next generation of talent through initiatives like the Annabelle Project, which aims to feed the industry pipeline with emerging professionals. This year, Sam Lippman will host two mentees from the program, Joshua Oloriegbe from Jarvis Christian University and another TAP mentee, to share their fresh perspectives on the convention experience.

The forum also features a range of sessions led by industry experts, including 'What Attendees Actually Want From Your Show (It's Not the Swag)', which dives into the evolving expectations of attendees. Additionally, Ken Holsinger and his colleagues from the Freeman Company will explore how different learning formats and interactions can enhance the overall value of events.

The day’s agenda includes a fast-paced session titled '5 Key Data Points in 5 Minutes', presented by Sam Lippman, which promises to deliver crucial insights that have significant implications for the industry. ECEF 2026 will also feature keynote speaker Edwina Kulego, who will discuss the importance of adopting a global mindset, even for those operating locally.

Another noteworthy presentation, 'The Profitability of Restraint', will be delivered by Bob Hughes, Vice President of NACS, where he will share insights on strategic financial decision-making. The event will also showcase tech demonstrations tailored for non-technical executives, allowing them to explore cutting-edge solutions for marketing, sales, and operations without the jargon.

With 47 exhibitors expected, ECEF offers a unique opportunity for attendees to meet tech experts and discover innovative products and services in the events sector. The forum aims to be a catalyst for peer-to-peer learning, making it a must-attend for industry leaders. Participants can anticipate a day filled with networking, learning, and the exchange of best practices, further solidifying ECEF's reputation as a fixture on the calendars of executive leaders in the events industry.

Overall, ECEF stands out as an invaluable experience for executives seeking to enhance their leadership capabilities and grow their professional networks.