Connect with the decision-makers who matter most
Monday – Wednesday, February 23 – 25, 2026 | Kalahari Resort, Wisconsin Dells
Why Smart Exhibitors Choose WHSA
When you exhibit at the Wisconsin Head Start Association Annual Conference, you’re not just renting table space—you’re investing in qualified, face-to-face time with the professionals who make purchasing decisions for early childhood programs across Wisconsin.
Here’s what sets us apart:
✓ Captive, engaged audience — 300+ Head Start directors, coordinators, and educators committed to three full days of professional development
✓ Guaranteed traffic to your booth — Our signature Passport for Success program ensures every attendee visits every exhibitor (no empty booth syndrome here)
✓ Decision-makers, not gatekeepers — You’ll connect directly with program directors and coordinators who control budgets and purchasing
✓ Built-in relationship time — Lunch for your team rep on both exhibit days, plus Monday evening networking event
✓ Right-sized event — With only 17-24 exhibitor spaces available, you won’t get lost in a sea of 200 booths. Your investment stands out.
Exhibitor Investment Levels
We believe in accessible partnerships. Choose the tier that fits your organization:
| Organization Type | Investment | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Corporate/Large Business | $800 | National vendors, major suppliers |
| Small Business | $300 | Local/regional vendors, small teams |
| Non-Profit (with sales) | $200 | Mission-aligned organizations offering products |
| Non-Profit (no sales) | $150 | Resource partners, community organizations |
Every package includes:
- 10×10 exhibition space with 8′ skirted table and 2 chairs
- Lunch for one representative on both exhibit days (Monday & Tuesday)
- Listing in conference program and online schedule
- Participation in Passport for Success engagement program
- Recognition on event signage and social media
Available add-ons:
- Premium corner/entrance placement ($150)
- Additional 10×10 space (first additional: $600, second: $1,000)
- Additional tables (ordered through Kalahari – price varies)
- Electrical service ($75/outlet/day + SC – ordered through Kalahari)
- Additional meals ($15 per person per day)
- Additional conference registrations ($95 per person)
Sustainability Commitment
We’re committed to reducing our environmental impact. Exhibitors are encouraged to minimize printed catalogs and paper materials. Instead, direct attendees to your website, use QR codes, or provide digital resources. Together, we can create a more sustainable conference experience.
Who Should Exhibit?
This conference is specifically designed for vendors and partners serving the Head Start and Early Head Start community. You’re a great fit if you provide:
- Curriculum and educational materials
- Classroom furniture and equipment
- Health, nutrition, and safety products
- Family services resources
- Professional development and training
- Program management software and tools
- Assessment and screening tools
- Books, toys, and learning materials
- Mental health and behavioral support resources
Priority is given to organizations that understand Head Start Performance Standards and demonstrate commitment to supporting quality early childhood programs.
Exhibition Schedule
Setup:
- Sunday, February 22, 2026: 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM
- Monday, February 23, 2026: 7:00 AM – 8:00 AM
- All exhibits must be ready by 8:00 AM Monday
Exhibit Hall Hours:
- Monday, February 23: 8:00 AM – 6:30 PM
- Tuesday, February 24: 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Teardown:
- Tuesday, February 24: 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM
- Exhibits must remain in place until 3:00 PM
Special Event:
- Monday Evening Reception: 5:00 PM – 6:30 PM in Exhibit Hall
- Excellent networking opportunity
Important Dates
- Application Deadline: Monday, December 22, 2025
- Acceptance Notifications: Monday, December 29, 2025
- Payment Due: Within 30 days of acceptance
- Logo and Services Description Upload: After acceptance via Sched.com
- Room Block Deadline: Wednesday, January 21, 2026
- Electrical Ordering Deadline: Monday, February 16, 2026
Signature Programs
Passport for Success (Required) Every exhibitor participates in this proven engagement program. Attendees collect stamps from all exhibitors and are entered into our grand prize drawing. This guarantees meaningful traffic to every booth.
Exhibitor Raffle Exhibitors are strongly encouraged to donate raffle prizes (any value welcomed). Prizes are displayed at your booth and drawn at the Monday evening reception, driving additional booth visits.
Cancellation Policy
Cancellations received on or before Monday, January 12, 2025 receive a full refund minus $50 handling charge. Cancellations received after that date receive 50% refund minus $50 handling charge.
The Bottom Line
In an era where trade shows compete with digital marketing, face-to-face connections still close deals—especially in the relationship-driven world of early childhood education.
For less than the cost of a single digital ad campaign, you get:
- Two days of direct access to qualified buyers
- Guaranteed booth traffic through our Passport program
- Lunch and networking included
- A curated audience that actually needs what you offer
Limited to 17-24 exhibitors. Applications reviewed on rolling basis.
Ready to Connect with Wisconsin’s Head Start Community?
APPLY TODAY, keep scrolling to the application below. Deadline Monday, December 22, 2025
Questions? Contact J Nadolski at whsaassist@whsaonline.org or 608-275-3722
Download: 2026 Exhibitor Information Packet *To be added soon.
Sponsorship Opportunities
Looking for even more visibility? Sponsorship opportunities available for 2026.
Details to be announced. Contact us for more information.
Wisconsin Head Start Association is a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting quality early childhood education programs across Wisconsin.
