About the 2026 Innovation Fair 
The Innovation Fair is a hands-on showcase of real conservation, stewardship, education, and community projects that are actively doing the work. 

This is not a poster session or idea pitch forum. It is a space for people who have moved from concern to action—who are testing ideas, running programs, restoring land and water, building partnerships, and learning what actually works. The Fair brings together Izaak Walton League members, chapters, youth programs, and hosted partners to:

— Share practical, on-the-ground solutions
— Learn from projects that others can adapt or replicate
— Spark partnerships and collaboration
— Celebrate action already underway

Projects at every stage are welcome—from early pilots to proven models—so long as they clearly demonstrate action, not just intention.

Who Should Submit
Project submissions are welcome from:
— Izaak Walton League chapters and divisions
— IWLA members acting through a chapter or program
— Youth programs and initiatives affiliated with IWLA
— Externally led projects that are formally hosted by an IWLA chapter, division, or program

All externally led projects must be hosted by an Izaak Walton League entity, which serves as the on-site point of connection and accountability.

What Types of Projects Are Eligible
The Innovation Fair is intentionally broad and mission-aligned. Eligible projects may include (but are not limited to):
— Conservation, restoration, and stewardship projects
— Water, land, wildlife, or habitat initiatives
— Environmental education and youth leadership programs
— Community engagement and civic action efforts
— Research, monitoring, and applied science projects
— Policy, advocacy, or systems-change initiatives
— Tools, methods, or models that support conservation work

Projects may be local, regional, or transferable. Strong preference is given to projects that share replicable practices—approaches others can realistically adapt in their own communities.

Alignment with the Convention Theme
All submissions must clearly demonstrate alignment with the Convention theme:

Get It Done: Turning Passion into Action
Projects should show how ideas, values, or concern have been translated into concrete action—work that is happening, evolving, or delivering results.

What to Expect:
Selected projects will participate in the Innovation Fair on Saturday during the day at the 2026 National Convention.
Standard participation includes:
— One table with chairs
— Access to power
— Shared Wi-Fi

Projects are expected to:
— Staff their table for the duration of the Fair (preferred), or during designated core hours if capacity is limited
— Engage attendees through conversation, visuals, and (optionally) interactive elements
— Participate in brief, optional micro-pitch opportunities if scheduled

Digital storytelling support (QR codes, short videos, links, summaries) is encouraged to help projects share their work beyond the table.

Selection & Curation
The Innovation Fair is an open call with curated acceptance. All eligible submissions will be reviewed, and space limitations may apply. When space is limited, priority will be given to projects that demonstrate:

— Strong alignment with the IWLA mission and Convention theme
— Demonstrated impact, outcomes, or learning
— Replicable practices others can adapt
— Clarity and readiness for a Fair setting

A mixed committee of IWLA national staff and experienced volunteers will review submissions.

Fee & Logistics
— A $100 participation fee per accepted project/table will be due upon acceptance
— No insurance documentation is required
— All participants agree to follow Convention safety guidelines and participate at their own risk

Key Dates
— Submission Deadline: June 1st, 2026
— Notification of Acceptance: Week of June 8th, 2026
— Innovation Fair: Saturday, July 16 – July 18th, during the Convention

Questions & Accessibility
If you have questions or need accommodations, please contact: [email protected]