How to Slay IMEX America 2026

by Smart Meetings

September 21, 2026

Bigger Than Ever
Whether you are a frequent IMEXer or a first-timer, there is always something new to discover at the largest hosted-buyer event of the year for the meetings industry. This year, hosted buyers will have to reorient themselves to a new location for the meetings lounge, as education will be moving completely into the Inspiration Hub on the show floor to make room for the biggest conference yet.
We asked Tahira Endean, IMEX head of program, for the landmarks that will point the way to education, meetings and activations. From the Association Focus curated by ASAE to the Wellness Wheel and University Corner, more than 300 sessions are divided into 12 tracks, including leadership, incentive trends, event design, legislation, tech innovation and marketing. Whether you are looking for personal or professional development, interactive, small-group sessions will provide insights on conflict resolution, agenda optimization and tech stack management.
One track focuses on one of the most Las Vegas-centric topics: designing for spectacle. Mega events, even in permanent venues designed to amplify the impact, such as Sphere Las Vegas, F1 Arcade and AREA15 Las Vegas, require consistent, wild creativity consistently to stay fresh and focused. This track will lay down the guardrails for raising expectations.
When it is time for a break, Bet on Yourself four-minute and 44-second mind and sound breaks with Sepideh “Sepi” Eivazi will help you catch your breath. While an enhanced neurodivergent-friendly space will feature programming and room for recovery.
With so much to choose from in addition to the business appointments, along with drinking plenty of water and wearing comfortable shoes, Endean advises planning ahead, blocking time on your calendar for the sessions that align with your goals and then filling in with appointments around that. No one can see everything in a show the size of IMEX. “Find something that’s going to leave you nourished. That is vital,” she said.
“And leave some time for serendipity,” she added.

Mark Your Calendars

The Power of Fun

Tuesday, Oct. 13, 11:05 a.m.

Education IA26 Insights Theater, B4100

Smart Woman Toast

Wednesday, Oct. 14, 4:00 p.m.

Smart Meetings Booth, E1845

Smart Meetings: Sports Launch

Thursday, Oct. 15, 11:00 a.m.

Smart Meetings Booth, E1845

After Hours

Celebrate our hardworking community with the people stepping up to make magic happen and contribute to good causes.

Events Industry Council 2026 Global Awards

Monday, Oct. 12, 5:30 p.m.

MGM Grand Las Vegas

SITE NITE North America

Monday, Oct. 12, 8-11 p.m.

Zouk Nightclub

MPI Rendezvous

Wed., Oct. 14, 8:00 p.m.

Main Stage Energy

Through daily keynotes, MPI brings current, inspirational and transformational voices to IMEX. Check out these guiding lights.

Caitlin Krause

Empowered Connection in a Digitally Layered Landscape

Monday, Oct. 12, 1:15 p.m. – 2:15 p.m.

Author and founder of MindWise consultancy Caitlin Krause shares strategies for employing well-being, attention and experience design to produce human-centered content for audiences whose realities are layered with technology. Thoughtful, empathetic planning can deepen presence, strengthen communities and raise the standard for meaningful engagement.

Shawn Harper

The Winner’s Mindset: A Proactive Approach to Business in Uncertain Times

Tuesday, Oct. 13, 8:30 a.m. – 9:30 a.m.

Author, former NFL offensive lineman, CEO and “winologist” Shawn Harper will help participants unlock their winning edge by applying elite strategies of professional athletes to business, leadership and life. He will share tips for building resilience, clarity and a culture of champions.

Neen James

Exceptional Experiences: Drive Revenue by Transforming Client Relationships

Wednesday, Oct. 14, 8:30 a.m.- 9:30 a.m.

Author and creator of the Experience Elevation Model Neen James deploys luxury language as a tool to identify and attract ideal clients by understanding their mindset and speaking their language. This personalized approach to relationships will turn business partners into brand advocates.

See below for more of what to expect at IMEX America 2026.