IDT Expo 2026

The Future of Business Growth Starts Here

October 15 – Houston, TX

Investment. Data. Technology.

Upcoming Event

IDT EXPO is back and relaunching with a renewed focus on what drives modern business growth: Investment, Data, and Technology.

On October 15, 2026, entrepreneurs, investors, business leaders, and innovators will gather for a high-impact event built around meaningful networking and practical business education. The new IDT EXPO is designed to connect people with opportunities, ideas, and relationships that can help accelerate growth and open new doors.

This year’s program features keynote speaker Magi Graziano of Keen Alignment, along with sessions covering sales, marketing, start-up growth, Mergers & Aquisition activities, finance, and business development. Attendees will also hear from leaders connected to Texas A&M University and participate in panel discussions focused on investment strategy, leadership, and emerging opportunities. Featured speaker Joe Paulo of Hope Media Group and KSBJ will also share insights on leadership, communication, influence, and leading with a purpose in today’s rapidly changing marketplace.

The relaunch of IDT EXPO reflects a belief that the future belongs to those who can connect capital, information, and innovation in purposeful ways. In a world increasingly shaped by technology and data, IDT EXPO exists to bring people together, spark conversations, and help attendees discover not only what is, but what could be.

Program Overview

The schedule features a full day of high-impact speakers, networking, and expert-led panels spanning investment, data, technology, AI, leadership, marketing, finance, and business growth.

Through keynotes and interactive discussions with experienced business leaders, IDT EXPO aims to spark meaningful conversations about what’s next.

IDT EXPO 2026 Schedule

* Subject to change.

Event date:

October 15, 2026

7:30 AM – 5:00 PM

Click to view event location on map:

Hilton Garden Inn

This one-day experience is organized into three curated event blocks, with each session highlighting a different area of business growth.

Block 1

Community Transformations

Exploring the forces reshaping traditional industries through innovation, data, and emerging technologies that are redefining how modern businesses operate.

7:30—8:00 AM	Check-in
8:00—8:20 AM	Welcome & Introduction Dr. Chris Alexander
8:20—9:05 AM	Keynote Speaker Magi Graziano Keen Alignment
9:05—9:20 AM	Joe Paulo CEO, KSBJ & Hope Media Group
9:20—9:35 AM	Mike Slabic Century Oak Private Wealth
9:35—9:55 AM	“Bridging Cultures, Markets, and Energy” Panel Magi Graziano, Joe Paulo, and Mike Slabic
9:55—10:40 AM	Morning Break

Block 2

Transformational Connections

A lineup of short, high-impact talks from founders and operators sharing real-world insights on sales, marketing, CRM systems, and business growth.

10:40—10:55 AM	“Sales Through Relationships” Tommy Precht
10:55—11:10 AM	“Power of the CRM” Travis Dean
11:10—11:25 AM	“Connections through Marketing” Ellie Pina
11:25—11:40 AM	“Building ‘Powerhouse’ Conferences” Ben Stroman
11:40 AM—12:00 PM	“Turning Contacts into Contracts” Panel Tommy Precht, Travis Dean, Ellie Pina, Mike Slabic, Ben Stroman
12:00—1:00 PM	Lunch Break “The ‘Power’ of the Natural Gas Revolution” Tony Rizk

Block 3

Panel Sessions

Expert-led panels featuring industry leaders and practitioners sharing insights on investment strategy, leadership, innovation, and the future of business.

1:00—1:30 PM	“Protect the Business: Legal & Accounting” Trent Halsell, Andy Mouer
1:30—2:00 PM	“Power the Business: Data, AI, & Technology” Tyler Cowie
2:00—2:30 PM	“Scale the Business: Startups & Growth” Simon Bellemare, John Hunt, Buddy Powers, and Tiffany Wallace
2:30—3:00 PM	“Build the Business: Real Estate & Construction” Shane Boatman, Nathan Gaines, Cale Kobza, and Mike Novelli
3:00—3:30 PM	“Fund the Business: Banking, Investing & Finance” Adrian Cadena, Doug Ruark
3:30—3:45 PM	Closing Comments / Wrap-up Dr. Chris Alexander
3:45—5:00 PM	Exhibitor Time