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Annual Conference Exhibit Hall

IHSA Annual Conference Banner

48th Annual IHSA Sponsorship, Vendor & Exhibitor Opportunities

March 17–19, 2026  •  Embassy Suites & Conference Center, East Peoria, Illinois

Overview

The Illinois Head Start Association (IHSA) Annual Conference brings together Head Start and Early Head Start staff, program leaders, educators, family service staff, and community partners from across Illinois.

Over three days, participants share ideas, strengthen their practice, and learn from one another. The conference provides an opportunity for organizations and companies to connect with professionals who support young children and families every day.

ð Download Printable Prospectus (PDF)

Ready to Join 48th Annual IHSA Conference
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Why Participate

Sponsorship and exhibitor participation help make this statewide event possible and affordable for programs. Participation also provides a way to share useful products, services, and information with early childhood professionals from across Illinois.

Organizations Often Include

  • Classroom materials, equipment, or technology
  • Staff training, data systems, or professional services
  • Health, nutrition, family engagement, or community resources

Participation Supports

  • Professional learning for Illinois’ early childhood workforce
  • Sharing tools and approaches that strengthen programs
  • Connections with program leaders, educators, and partners
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Who Attends

  • Program Directors and Administrators
  • Education, Health, Nutrition, and Family Services Managers/Staff
  • Teaching and Support Staff
  • Indirect Program Leadership/Staff
  • Policy Council and Governing Body Members
  • Parents
  • Community and statewide partners

Participants represent Head Start and Early Head Start programs serving communities throughout Illinois.

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Opportunities for Connection

  • Exhibit hall hours scheduled alongside major conference activities
  • Networking breaks and coffee service in the exhibitor area
  • Listing and recognition in the conference app and materials
  • Raffle activities that encourage visits to exhibitor tables
  • General recognition in conference signage and slides
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Participation Benefits

  • Share information about your organization’s products or services
  • Build relationships with professionals in early learning and family services
  • Learn more about the needs of programs serving children and families
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Exhibitor Packages

PackageDescriptionCost
Standard ExhibitorIncludes one skirted 6’ table and two chairs; logo on event signage.$1,500
Premium ExhibitorAll Standard Exhibitor benefits, plus your logo on the conference landing page, one social media post, one mention in The Scoop newsletter, and one mention in the conference e-newsletter blast.$1,800

Meal passes are available as an add-on and do not include access to sessions unless separately registered.
View full descriptions: IHSA 2026 Prospectus (PDF)

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Sponsorship Opportunities

Add-On Visibility Options

Tote Insert — $150
Your flyer or item included in attendee tote bags (300+).
Second Booth Table — $300
Add an additional 6’ table to your booth.
Conference App Ad Space — $250
Logo and link placement in IHSA Conference App.
Electricity Access — $100
Power outlet access for display equipment.
Meal Pass — $145
Covers all meals; sessions not included.
Basic Recognition Package — $500
Logo in app, slideshow listing, and one social media mention.
Raffle Prize Donation — No Cost
Donate an item for giveaways; recognition via app when winners are announced.
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Ready to Join 48th Annual IHSA Conference 

Sponsor & Exhibitor Information + Q&A

Shipping & Deliveries

Embassy Suites & Conference CenterAttn: J. Seiler / IHSA Conference Vendor – {Your Company Name}100 Conference Center DriveEast Peoria, IL 61611

When should I ship my exhibit materials? Items should arrive no more than 3 days before the conference. The hotel will hold materials until setup day.

Can I send pallets or large items? Yes, but the hotel does not have a pallet jack available. Contact Jennifer Seiler (309) 427-2408 for help.

How do I handle return shipping? All outbound packages must have prepaid labels and a pickup scheduled with your carrier.

Exhibit Setup & Hours

ScheduleTime
SetupTuesday, March 17 — 8:00–11:00 AM
Open HoursTuesday 12:00–7:00 PM; Wednesday 8:00–5:00; Thursday 8:00–12:00
Tear DownThursday, March 19 — on or before 1:00 PM

Payment & Invoicing

  • Check: Payable to Illinois Head Start Association, P.O. Box 13424, Springfield, IL 62791
  • Credit Card: Secure link included with invoice (processing fee applies)

When is payment due? You will receive an IHSA invoice. Payment must be received before the event. Space confirmed once payment is complete.

What if I need to cancel? IHSA has a no-cancellation, no-refund policy. Once your submit your registration as an exhibitor, payment is required in full.

Attendee Information

Can I receive a contact list of attendees? IHSA does not distribute attendee contact information. You may collect contacts directly from your booth of attendees at the conference who choose to share.

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Lodging

Embassy Suites East Peoria
100 Conference Center Drive, East Peoria, IL 61611

IHSA conference room block available. Details available HERE.

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Contact

Conference inquiries: info@ilheadstart.org

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