📅✨2026 EMDA Convention Schedule✨📅
We’re excited to announce the 2026 EMDA& FEMA Fall Joint Convention happening at the New Orleans Marriott - New Orleans, Louisiana - October 27–29, 2026
Get ready to connect, collaborate, and celebrate in one of the most vibrant cities in the U.S.!
Monday, October 26
8:00- 12:00 Group 6 Meeting Special Meeting for G6 Members
12:00- 5pm Board of Directors Meeting Board Members only
Tuesday, October 27
12:30-1:00 Open Breakout
1:15-2:00 Open Breakout
2:00-3:30 Roundtable: EMDA … Gateway to the North American Market – panel presentation and Q&A for manufacturers looking to sell products in North America.
3:30-4:00 Member Spotlight – The EMDA President, Kris Yancey will do a presentation on Implement Sales and Marketing
4:00-4:30 New Member/ Mentor Toast For New Members and Mentors
4:30-6:00 Open break out
6:00- Past President Reception & DinnerFor Past Presidents, the Board, and their guests.
Wednesday, October 28
08:00a – 09:30a FEMA/EMDA Joint Opening Session & Breakfast – Speaker: Alex Webber
Get ready to kick off the convention with energy, inspiration, and practical strategies for success. Alex Weber is an award-winning keynote speaker, champion coach, acclaimed author, NBC television host, and competitor on American Ninja Warrior. In fact, he is the only person ever to both host and compete on the show.
Known for his contagious enthusiasm and actionable insights, Alex helps individuals and organizations lead through change, overcome challenges, and achieve breakthrough results. Having inspired more than 5.5 million people worldwide and worked with leading organizations including Amazon, Apple, Fidelity, LinkedIn, RE/MAX, and the Los Angeles Lakers, Alex brings a unique blend of entertainment, motivation, and real-world strategies.
Through powerful stories, practical takeaways, and his signature The Unstoppable You framework, Alex will empower attendees to embrace change, conquer obstacles, and unlock new levels of personal and professional achievement.
10:00a-11:00a Corporate Annual Meeting – Standard agenda items (reports, nominations, etc.).
10:00a –1:00p Join us for the EMDA/FEMA Joint Social Program
Spouse Outing: A Taste of New Orleans Join us for a delightful morning exploring the rich history and flavors of New Orleans. The outing will begin with a guided tour of The Historic New Orleans Collection Museum, where guests will discover fascinating stories, artifacts, and exhibits that bring the city's unique heritage to life.
Following the museum visit, we will head to the renowned New Orleans School of Cooking for an interactive cooking demonstration and lunch. During this two-hour experience, local chefs will demonstrate the preparation of classic Louisiana dishes while sharing the history and traditions behind Creole and Cajun cuisine. Guests will enjoy each course as it is prepared, along with complimentary beverages, and will receive copies of the recipes to take home. This memorable experience offers the perfect blend of culture, cuisine, and Southern hospitality while enjoying the best of New Orleans.11:15a – 12:45p Contact Session – Each table will have a small sign to remind participants of the 10-minute ‘limit’. Booth Signs include “distributor” or “rep” notation and territory map, and product types. Companies are set in alphabetical order. The first 30 minutes are limited to EMDA Associate members only.
1:00a -5:30p Open for Provider and Associate member Breakout sessions
06:00p – 07:00p Partners Party– All EMDA convention registrants are invited. FEMA manufacturers Members invited to celebrate our joint partnership.
7:00p- 9:00 p Open for sponsorship party
Thursday, October 29th
7:00a – 9:00a FEMA/EMDA Joint Breakfast Buffet
8:00 a- 9:00 a Past Presidents Breakfast for Past Presidents and the Board
9:00a-10:30a Rep RoundTable- For Distributors and Reps only
10:30a -2:00p Industry Showcase- Mardi Gras Themed
2:00p-5:30p Open Breakout Sessions with FEMA
05:30p - 9:30 Joint Farewell Outing -
Farewell Dinner Cruise | 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Join us for an extra-special farewell evening aboard a classic New Orleans steamboat as we cruise along the historic Mississippi River. Guests will enjoy authentic New Orleans cuisine, live music, and breathtaking views while celebrating the close of another memorable EMDA Convention. It's the perfect opportunity to relax, connect with fellow attendees, and experience the unique culture and charm of the Crescent City.
Transportation: Motor coaches will depart the hotel at 5:30 PM. The cruise will sail from 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM, with an anticipated return to the hotel by 9:30 PM.