New Orleans: 25 Days and Counting!
Three days of industry connections, fresh ideas and emerging technology are just ahead.
There’s a lot happening in New Orleans, and FEMA’s 2026 Marketing & Distribution Convention is the perfect opportunity to experience the city while connecting with the people, ideas and opportunities shaping the farm equipment industry.
A City That Has It All
From world-class food and music to historic neighborhoods and a culture unlike anywhere else, New Orleans offers something for everyone. The 2026 convention will be held October 27–29 at the New Orleans Marriott, putting attendees within easy reach of the French Quarter, restaurants, entertainment and some of the city’s most famous attractions.
October is also a great time to visit, with fall events, music, food and cultural activities giving attendees plenty to experience before or after convention activities.
Great Food, Music and Culture
New Orleans is known around the world for its distinctive food and culture. From Creole and Cajun favorites to fresh seafood and beignets, there’s no shortage of opportunities to enjoy the city’s unique culinary scene.
Music is everywhere, from jazz and blues to live performances throughout the city. For those interested in history and culture, the French Quarter, museums, historic architecture and the Mississippi River provide plenty to explore.
More Than a Meeting
Of course, the biggest reason to come to New Orleans is what happens inside the convention.
FEMA’s Marketing & Distribution Convention brings together manufacturers, distributors, independent sales representatives, suppliers and industry leaders for three days of education, networking and business development. It’s an opportunity to strengthen existing relationships, make new connections, exchange ideas and discover opportunities that can help move your business forward.
This year’s program includes Alex Weber’s opening keynote, “The Unstoppable You,” an Economic Outlook session with Patrick Luce and Jeremy Bess, opportunities to explore emerging technology through the AgTech Arena Pitch Competition, the Showcase and discussions focused on the challenges and opportunities facing manufacturers and the distribution channel.
Don’t Miss the AgTech Pitch Competition
One of the exciting additions to this year’s convention is the FEMA AgTech Arena Pitch Competition, taking place Wednesday evening, October 28.
Five emerging agtech startups will take the stage to pitch their technologies, with $10,000 going to the Grand Prize winner and another $1,000 awarded through the People’s Choice Award.
The competition will give attendees an up-close look at emerging technologies while providing startups with an opportunity to connect with manufacturers, suppliers, distributors, investors and other industry leaders.
Five startups. $11,000 in prize money. One stage. And a room full of industry leaders looking toward the future.
A Strong Turnout Means More Opportunities
Nearly 300 people have already registered for FEMA’s 2026 Marketing & Distribution Convention, putting this year’s registration numbers on par with the Association’s 2023 fall meeting in Kansas City.
That kind of turnout means more people to meet, more conversations to have and more opportunities to make connections that can continue long after the convention ends.
Get More From Your FEMA Membership
There are plenty of reasons to make the trip to New Orleans. Take the time to invest in yourself, your business and your industry relationships.
The value of the convention doesn’t end when the last session concludes. The conversations you have over coffee, at a networking event, during the Showcase or simply in the hotel hallway can lead to new ideas, new partnerships and new business opportunities.
The Future Is in the Room. Will You Be?
Ready for New Orleans? Learn more about the 2026 Marketing & Distribution Convention. Learn More & Register
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