ETC 2026

The Educational Travel Conference (ETC) is the premier professional community for those who design, operate, and manage educational, experiential, and affinity travel programs. Since 1987, ETC has brought together travel planners from universities, museums, cultural organizations, and conservation groups, alongside tour operators, DMCs, suppliers, and destinations from around the world. Our members share a commitment to lifelong learning, responsible travel, and creating meaningful experiences that deepen understanding of place, people, and purpose.

Held annually, ETC convenes more than 250 delegates for four days of high-impact learning, skill building, peer exchange, and partnership development. The conference features 30+ educational sessions, bold talks from industry leaders, hands-on Learning Labs, and multiple blocks of structured 1:1 meetings. ETC is intentionally intimate to foster collegiality, cross-sector collaboration, and practical knowledge-sharing that planners and partners can apply immediately to their work. It is not a trade show. It is a professional development gathering designed around content, connection, and community.

About the ETC Conference App:

The ETC App is your essential companion before, during, and after the conference. Designed to help attendees navigate the event with ease, the app provides real-time access to the full conference agenda, speaker details, Learning Lab descriptions, room locations, maps, and daily updates.

Attendees can build custom schedules, bookmark sessions of interest, and receive timely notifications about program changes or conference highlights. The app also unlocks our enhanced digital experience for 2026, including:

• Personalized Digital Profiles – Showcase your organization, services, and areas of expertise.
• Built-In 1:1 Meeting Tools – Match with planners, operators, destinations, and suppliers and schedule meetings directly through the app.
• Digital Exhibit Booths (for DOS) – Promote your brand, upload marketing materials, list destinations and offerings, and connect directly with travel planners.
• Attendee Directory – Easily browse and contact fellow participants.
• Message Center – Exchange messages, coordinate meetings, and network throughout the event.
• Resource Library – Access documents, session handouts, and links shared during the conference.
• Interactive Maps – Navigate the hotel, session rooms, and the International Bazaar with ease.

The ETC App ensures that every attendee—whether a seasoned travel planner or first-time participant—can make the most of their conference experience. With streamlined meeting tools, enhanced digital visibility, and constant access to schedules and resources, it supports meaningful connections and maximizes learning throughout the event.

Whether you're focused on strengthening your nonprofit travel program, discovering new partners, exploring emerging trends, or navigating today’s rapidly evolving travel landscape, the ETC App delivers the tools and convenience you need for a successful, engaging, and productive conference.