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	Featured Speaker Joe Paulo CEO, KSBJ & Hope Media Group
9:20—9:35 AM	Building “Powerhouse” Conferences Ben Stroman
9:35—9:55 AM	The “Bridging Cultures, Markets, and Energy” Panel Moderator: Dr. Chris Alexander Panelists: Magi Graziano, Joe Paulo, Ben Stroman
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	The Power of Digital Platforms Travis Dean
11:10—11:25 AM	The Culture of Likability – Making Yourself Referable Mike Slabic
11:25—11:40 AM	Great Staffing: Right People, Right Seat Tiffany Wallace
11:40 AM—12:00 PM	The “Turning Contacts into Contracts” Panel Moderator: Sara Olson Panelists: Travis Dean, Tommy Precht, Mike Slabic, Tiffany Wallace
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	The “Powering AI” Panel Moderator: Buddy Powers Panelists: Andrew Chang, Mark Tanner, and Nathan Vajdos
1:30—2:00 PM	The “Power the Business: Data, AI, & Technology” Panel Moderator: Tyler Cowie Panelists: Chris Hinkle, Phillip Turpin, Tucker Cowie, Ian Hunter, Dave Levitt
2:00—2:30 PM	The “Scale the Business: Startups & Growth” Panel Moderator: Travis Dean Panelists: Simon Bellemare, Tray Cassels, Buddy Powers, Tiffany Wallace
2:30—3:00 PM	The “Build the Business: Real Estate & Construction” Panel Moderator: Brian Burk Panelists: Shane Boatman, Sr., Nathan Gaines, Cale Kobza
3:00—3:30 PM	The “Fund the Business: Banking, Investing, Legal, Mergers, & Acquisitions” Panel Moderator: Mike Slabic Panelists: Mike Novelli, Andy Mouer, Billy Newhouse
3:30—3:45 PM	Closing Comments / Wrap-up Dr. Chris Alexander
3:45—5:00 PM	*Exhibitor Time*