Member PortalThe Forum 2026: Ignite. Innovate. Impact.
After 40+ years in DC, NAWB’s The Forum is rolling the dice and taking this show on the road!
First stop: LAS VEGAS – March 23-26, 2026!
This is more than a venue change—it’s the start of a nationwide tour of the boldest workforce innovations in the country
Watch the Las Vegas announcement video and get ready to pack your bags. What happens in Vegas could change the future of work.
Preliminary information follows. Watch this space for the latest updates!
About The Forum
Why Attend:
The Forum is the premier annual event for workforce leaders, employers, educators, and partners working to build stronger communities and competitive economies. It’s the one place where policy, practice, and partnership come together, equipping you with the insights, resources, and connections to drive impact at home.
Who You’ll Meet and What You’ll Gain:
- Workforce Development Board Executive Directors
Shape national policy, strengthen your leadership, and connect with peers across the country.
- Workforce Development Board Chairs
Gain tools for effective governance and new strategies to engage employers and community leaders.
- Workforce Development Board Staff
Learn practical, hands-on approaches to program implementation, operations, and innovation.
- Employers and Business Leaders
Discover proven talent solutions, influence policy discussions, and build partnerships to grow your workforce.
- Chambers of Commerce
Position your Chamber as a driver of workforce solutions with fresh data, strategies, and connections.
- K–12 Education Leaders
Explore employer-driven trends and build partnerships that expand career pathways for students.
- Higher Education Leaders
Align programs with employer demand, strengthen partnerships with WDBs, and tap into resources that expand career pathways.
- Vendors and Consultants
Showcase your solutions, connect with decision-makers, and expand your reach in the workforce system.
The Bottom line:
At The Forum, you’ll return to work with:
- Actionable strategies to strengthen your organization
- Partnerships that expand your impact
- Insights into the future of work, policy, and funding
- A stronger voice in shaping the national workforce agenda
Join us at The Forum 2026 to Ignite. Innovate. Impact.
Share Your Bold Ideas at The Forum 2026
The Forum 2026 is where workforce leaders ignite fresh thinking, inspire innovation, and collaborate on bold solutions for the future.
We’re seeking dynamic, interactive sessions that go beyond slide decks and Q&A—sessions that energize, engage, and equip attendees with practical tools they can use right away.
Submission Deadline: October 24, 2025
Submit your proposal!The Forum 2026 FAQs
We convene The Forum to learn from one another as we work to build a flourishing, resilient economy that provides for workers and families. The Forum 2026 will unite thought leaders, policymakers, and stakeholders at a moment of transformational potential.
We’ve answered a few of the most common The Forum-related questions for your convenience:
Where is The Forum 2026?
The Forum 2026 will be held in Las Vegas, Nevada!
Is there a schedule of events?
Our Schedule-at-a-Glance will be available on this page soon.
What is the process and criteria for selecting proposals?
Proposals for sessions open in the fall. Presenters should be notified of the review committee’s decision before the winter break.
Review Process: A team of NAWB Board members will review and rank all proposals.
Is there a room block with discounted rooms for The Forum 2025?
Yes. Information will be posted in the Lodging tab soon!
I am interested in sponsoring The Forum. What options are available?
Please contact gentryj@nawb.org to discuss how we can customize a package that meets your needs.
Health and Safety
The safety and well-being of the NAWB community is our top priority. Our safety protocols are informed by the guidance of multiple sources, including Nevada and Las Vegas governments and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). We will be following their guidance before and during the conference.
What is the dress code?
The dress code is business casual. Comfortable shoes are encouraged.
When should I arrive?
We officially kick off The Forum on Monday evening, but encourage you to come early to attend our pre-conference sessions on Sunday and earlier on Monday.
When does Advance Registration end?
Advance registration will open in early fall.
What if I can no longer attend. Can I get a refund?
If you need to cancel your registration you may choose to transfer it to another individual or to receive a refund for a limited time.
Transfers and requests for refunds must be made in writing to nawbregistrar@nawb.org by 11:59 pm ET on March 1, 2026. Refunds will be processed within 30 days of receipt.
An administrative fee of $75 will be charged for all cancellations and transfers.
Cancellations made after March 1 will not receive a refund, and transfers received after March 1 will not be accommodated.
I need to defer my payment. How does that work?
We understand that your organization may have a complicated or lengthy process for approving conference attendance, travel, etc. and we want to give you time to lock in current rates.
Payment is due at time of purchase. If you need to make special arrangements, send a note to nawbregistrar@nawb.org describing your needs.
If you registered during the Advance Registration rate offer but NAWB hasn’t received payment within 30 days, your registration will be cancelled and you will have to begin the process again at the current rate (the same applies for subsequent rates and any discounts).
We do not accept checks onsite. If you plan to pay the onsite registration rate of $2900, please ensure you have a valid credit card as it will be charged before you are given a badge.
Is there anything else I should know?
Thanks for asking! Yes!
- The Forum is a paperless event. Please consult the event app for the full event agenda and to choose which sessions you will be attending.
- We recommend you bring a reusable water bottle to ensure you stay hydrated throughout the event. Water coolers will be available throughout the event for refilling.
Awards FAQs
When are submissions due for awards nominations?
Coming soon.
Sponsorship Opportunities (Coming soon!)
For almost 50 years, NAWB has convened the leading voices in workforce development at its annual event, The Forum, to foster discussion, learning, and relationship-building among the largest gathering of workforce professionals in the country. Workforce development leaders, policymakers, business leaders, educators, and economists come together to discuss the challenges and opportunities facing their communities. At the center of it all is the workforce system and the millions of Americans who have found rewarding careers through your essential services.
Are you ready to impact the national conversation about workforce development? What better place than The Forum: the nation’s largest annual workforce development conference? This year, we are excited to share new opportunities to engage with our 1,100+ attendees, including:
- Premier gathering, learning, dining, and exploration space: NAWBTown
- Small group conversations on issues important to your organization
- Networking receptions, meals, and breaks to engage with attendees and workforce leaders
- Marketing materials and giveaways to grow your brand and expand your reach with the workforce system
The following sponsorship packages can be further customized to meet the needs of your organization.
Interested in The Forum sponsorhip?
Contact Director, Business Development, Jay Gentry.
Lodging for The Forum 2026
Stay tuned for the link to secure your room in our discounted block.