Washington, D.C. | May 24–28
Dear Colleagues,
It is my honour to invite you to the IFBSO Congress 2026, which will take place in Washington, D.C., USA. Following an exceptionally successful edition in Palma de Mallorca in 2025, our vibrant community now gathers in the capital of the United States, a country that stands as the world’s largest manufacturer of production boats and a benchmark in show business, the experience economy, and an impressive calendar of boat shows across its states.
This year’s congress promises inspiration, education, and networking opportunities, thanks to a carefully curated programme by our host the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA), the originators of the renowned Discover Boating campaign, celebrated for its success in attracting new audiences to our industry. I am confident that the 2026 IFBSO Congress will deliver exceptional value for every show director.
Why should you attend?
-
Learn from industry leaders: Gain insights from NMMA and other experts shaping the future of boat shows worldwide.
-
Discover proven strategies: Explore successful initiatives like Discover Boating that attract new audiences and drive growth.
-
Expand your network: Connect with show directors and stakeholders from all continents in a collaborative environment. The colocation with ICOMIA brings together the leadership of all marine industry associations.
-
Shape the future together: Participate in discussions that influence global standards and best practices for boat show organisers.
Beyond the sessions, take time to enjoy Washington, D.C.: rent a bike and cycle along the National Mall and its iconic landmarks (my personal favourite), explore Georgetown, and experience the unique atmosphere of the U.S. Capitol.
I look forward to welcoming you to Washington, D.C. See you in D.C.!
Niels Klarenbeek President
-
Dear ICOMIA Member,
On behalf of the Board of ICOMIA, it is an honor to invite you to the ICOMIA/ IFBSO Congress 2026, which will be held in Washington, D.C. May 24–28.
Washington, D.C. is a city of global influence, iconic landmarks, and institutions that shape public policy, providing an exceptional setting for Congress 2026. As the United States celebrates its 250th anniversary, our meeting in the nation’s capital becomes even more meaningful. The monuments of the National Mall and the halls of government offer a powerful backdrop for convening the international recreational marine industry.
This year’s Congress will bring us together to address the key challenges and emerging opportunities facing our industry—and to explore fresh approaches to working collaboratively. Attendees can expect a robust program of presentations and workshops led by top industry leaders, with special emphasis on advancing association partnerships that support our shared goal of strengthening and expanding recreational boating participation.
ICOMIA and IFBSO’s annual Congress continues to serve as a vital forum for in-depth discussions, committee meetings, and meaningful networking. It is a chance for all of us to share insights, strengthen partnerships, and help shape a more prosperous and sustainable future for the recreational marine industry.
NMMA is delighted to host Congress 2026, especially in a year marking the 60th anniversary of ICOMIA. We extend our sincere gratitude to our organizing partners and to the dedicated teams at the ICOMIA and IFBSO Secretariats for their leadership and hard work in preparing for this outstanding event.
I hope you will accept this invitation and join us in Washington, D.C. for Congress in 2026. I look forward to welcoming you there.
Best regards,
Frank Hugelmeyer ICOMIA President NMMA President
Welcome
The National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA) is honored to welcome you to the 2026 ICOMIA and IFBSO Congress, taking place May 24–28 in Washington, D.C.
This year’s Congress will bring together industry leaders from around the world to explore the most pressing challenges and emerging opportunities facing recreational boating.
Throughout the week, you can look forward to:
-
Insightful presentations from global industry experts
-
Interactive workshops focused on innovation and collaboration
-
Strategic discussions on strengthening association partnerships
-
Opportunities to advance our shared goal of growing boating participation worldwide, through world class boat shows and beyond through impactful content and valuable networking opportunities
On behalf of ICOMIA, IFBSO, NMMA, our partners and sponsors, thank you for joining us for this important global gathering of the recreational marine industry.
Frank Hugelmeyer
ICOMIA President
NMMA President
Dear Colleagues,
It is my honour to invite you to the IFBSO Congress 2026, which will take place in Washington, D.C., USA. Following an exceptionally successful edition in Palma de Mallorca in 2025, our vibrant community now gathers in the capital of the United States, a country that stands as the world’s largest manufacturer of production boats and a benchmark in show business, the experience economy, and an impressive calendar of boat shows across its states.
This year’s congress promises inspiration, education, and networking opportunities, thanks to a carefully curated programme by our host the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA), the originators of the renowned Discover Boating campaign, celebrated for its success in attracting new audiences to our industry. I am confident that the 2026 IFBSO Congress will deliver exceptional value for every show director.
Why should you attend?
-
Learn from industry leaders: Gain insights from NMMA and other experts shaping the future of boat shows worldwide.
-
Discover proven strategies: Explore successful initiatives like Discover Boating that attract new audiences and drive growth.
-
Expand your network: Connect with show directors and stakeholders from all continents in a collaborative environment. The colocation with ICOMIA brings together the leadership of all marine industry associations.
-
Shape the future together: Participate in discussions that influence global standards and best practices for boat show organisers.
Beyond the sessions, take time to enjoy Washington, D.C.: rent a bike and cycle along the National Mall and its iconic landmarks (my personal favourite), explore Georgetown, and experience the unique atmosphere of the U.S. Capitol.
I look forward to welcoming you to Washington, D.C. See you in D.C.!
Niels Klarenbeek President
-
Dear ICOMIA Member,
On behalf of the Board of ICOMIA, it is an honor to invite you to the ICOMIA/ IFBSO Congress 2026, which will be held in Washington, D.C. May 24–28.
Washington, D.C. is a city of global influence, iconic landmarks, and institutions that shape public policy, providing an exceptional setting for Congress 2026. As the United States celebrates its 250th anniversary, our meeting in the nation’s capital becomes even more meaningful. The monuments of the National Mall and the halls of government offer a powerful backdrop for convening the international recreational marine industry.
This year’s Congress will bring us together to address the key challenges and emerging opportunities facing our industry—and to explore fresh approaches to working collaboratively. Attendees can expect a robust program of presentations and workshops led by top industry leaders, with special emphasis on advancing association partnerships that support our shared goal of strengthening and expanding recreational boating participation.
ICOMIA and IFBSO’s annual Congress continues to serve as a vital forum for in-depth discussions, committee meetings, and meaningful networking. It is a chance for all of us to share insights, strengthen partnerships, and help shape a more prosperous and sustainable future for the recreational marine industry.
NMMA is delighted to host Congress 2026, especially in a year marking the 60th anniversary of ICOMIA. We extend our sincere gratitude to our organizing partners and to the dedicated teams at the ICOMIA and IFBSO Secretariats for their leadership and hard work in preparing for this outstanding event.
I hope you will accept this invitation and join us in Washington, D.C. for Congress in 2026. I look forward to welcoming you there.
Best regards,
Frank Hugelmeyer ICOMIA President NMMA President
Welcome
Welcome
The National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA) is honored to welcome you to the 2026 ICOMIA and IFBSO Congress, taking place May 24–28 in Washington, D.C.
This year’s Congress will bring together industry leaders from around the world to explore the most pressing challenges and emerging opportunities facing recreational boating.
Throughout the week, you can look forward to:
-
Insightful presentations from global industry experts
-
Interactive workshops focused on innovation and collaboration
-
Strategic discussions on strengthening association partnerships
-
Opportunities to advance our shared goal of growing boating participation worldwide, through world class boat shows and beyond through impactful content and valuable networking opportunities
On behalf of ICOMIA, IFBSO, NMMA, our partners and sponsors, thank you for joining us for this important global gathering of the recreational marine industry.
Frank Hugelmeyer
ICOMIA President
NMMA President
Welcome
The National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA) is honored to welcome you to the 2026 ICOMIA and IFBSO Congress, taking place May 24–28 in Washington, D.C.
This year’s Congress will bring together industry leaders from around the world to explore the most pressing challenges and emerging opportunities facing recreational boating.
Throughout the week, you can look forward to:
-
Insightful presentations from global industry experts
-
Interactive workshops focused on innovation and collaboration
-
Strategic discussions on strengthening association partnerships
-
Opportunities to advance our shared goal of growing boating participation worldwide, through world class boat shows and beyond through impactful content and valuable networking opportunities
On behalf of ICOMIA, IFBSO, NMMA, our partners and sponsors, thank you for joining us for this important global gathering of the recreational marine industry.
Frank Hugelmeyer
ICOMIA President
NMMA President