2026 NCALA Fall Conference & Trade Show
Compassion is Our Medium. Excellence is Our Art.
October 13 – 15, 2026
Benton Convention Center, Winston-Salem, NC
**PLEASE READ FOR TRADE SHOW FLOOR LAYOUT, HOLLINS EXPO SHIPPING KIT, AND ELECTRIC ORDERS.**
NCALA’s Fall Conference and Trade Show is your canvas for celebrating exceptional talent, inspired products, and masterful services. This year, we invite you to take part in our 4th Annual Booth Decorating Contest and compete for the highly sought‑after GOAT Trophy—the ultimate award of excellence.
Bring your vision to life with your own interpretation of “Compassion is Our Medium. Excellence is Our Art.” Think bold design, interactive, and show‑stopping presentation worthy of the spotlight.
Current members may select their booth once 2026 Partner Member dues are paid. Simply view the Trade Show Floor Layout and scroll down to the registration button to reserve your space.
When reviewing the Trade Show Floor Layout, please note:
(While every effort will be made to honor your preferred placement, final booth locations may vary slightly.) Booths are assigned on a first‑come, first‑served basis.
Booth spaces are highly coveted—much like a limited gallery showing. We have sold out and maintained a waiting list for several consecutive years, so early registration is strongly encouraged. New Partner Prospects must be NCALA members in order to exhibit. We warmly invite you to join NCALA and showcase your work at the Trade Show. Partner membership applications may be submitted using the paper Partner Membership Application or complete membership application online. Then, choose your booth. If you have questions regarding our show or membership, please call (919) 467-2486 and ask for Karen or Stephanie.
Exhibitors can download the Hollins Exhibitor Kit for shipping information or additional booth item rentals.
Electric power for booths is coordinated through NCALA. If your display requires an outlet, please select and purchase electric service during booth registration. Vendors who wait to order on‑site will incur higher rates through the Benton Convention Center.
For additional guidelines, review the Benton Convention Center Trade Show Exhibitor Handbook, particularly pages 13–16, which outline fire code regulations.
Finally, don’t miss the opportunity to connect beyond the floor.
Vendors are welcome to attend any part of our conference including continuing education sessions. More information will be available soon regarding the schedule for attendees. The Vendor/Member Opening Reception, Sponsor Education Fair, and Silent Auction for the PAC will take place the evening before the Trade Show on Tuesday, October 13th.
Exhibitors are encouraged to attend, at no additional charge, the Hero Awards Luncheon immediately prior to the Trade Show on Wednesday, October 14th, where we will honor our heroes and sponsors.
Navion Senior Solutions - 2025 GOAT Trophy Winner
2025 Keynote- Anne Bonney
Everything in Gold, plus reserved center aisle booth location, a second booth for free, an opportunity to present continuing education at Opening Night Reception, and your name and logo on conference folders given to every participant. SOLD OUT
Company logo on conference bags, preferred booth location, and recognition on large sponsor banner signs. SOLD OUT
Signs at buffet tables and in the center of each dining table during the Awards Lunch the day of the Trade Show and recognition on large sponsor banner signs. $2500
Signs at food and beverage stations during all breaks. $1,000
Signs at the refreshments tables at the opening reception. $600
Signs at the refreshments tables in the trade show. SOLD OUT
(ONLY 1 SPONSOR) Logo on all check-in kiosks at registration desk and logo on all event badges. Additionally, recognition on large sponsor banner signs. $4,500
Presented by signage near event entertainment, on website, and conference app. $600
Logo on large sponsor sign, pocket folder, and conference folder. SOLD OUT
Salem Foyer (Main Level Benton)
Check in at registration to print name badges and pick up exhibitor packets.
Booth Set-Up will not be open until Wednesday. Exhibitors may view their booth space or drop non-valuable items in their booth downstairs. It is not advised to leave items of high value. While the Benton doors will be locked, NCALA can not guarantee their safety.
Winston 2 (Main Level Benton)
Networking, Sponsor Education Fair, Silent Auction for the PAC, and this year Bid to Paint at the Opening Reception with NC Artist, William Mangum. (More details soon!)
Beer, wine, soft drinks, and water available (for purchase or use drink tickets) and heavy hors d’oeuvres. Have a snack or a meal! Then, hit the town with clients, peers, and friends for other events or dinner.
Salem Foyer (Main Level Benton)
Check in at registration to print name badges and pick up exhibitor packets if you did not yesterday.
Center Aisle of Piedmont 4 (DOWNSTAIRS)
Announcements regarding the trade show and order of events.
Salem Ballroom (Main Level Benton)
Hero Awards Lunch (ALL exhibitors are invited and encouraged to attend a FREE sit-down luncheon and networking time to celebrate our sponsors and honor our Hero Award winners. Special Guests.
Piedmont 4 (DOWNSTAIRS)
Education Foundation Raffle in center aisle.
(snacks and beverages available beginning at 3:00 pm)
Please do not begin breaking down your booth until 4:00 pm.
Salem 1, 2, or 3
Exhibitors are welcome to attend any continuing education sessions of interest. Session topic and location on the back of your conference badge.
