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The 31st annual International BoatBuilders’ Exhibition and Conference (IBEX) opens Tuesday, September 27 and runs through Thursday, with pre-conference events kicking off today at the Tampa Convention Center. The show is the industry’s largest trade-only event that is a must-attend for marine industry professionals.

In addition to being the leading technical boat-building showcase, IBEX provides a unique forum where the marine industry can network, collaborate and accelerate new product development. It offers attendees over 700+ exhibits in the exhibit halls, outdoor display space, and on the IBEX Docks. IBEX also offers unparalleled training and education from industry experts and associations.

To view the schedule at a glance, visit IBEX schedule and for a full list of conference sessions and educational opportunities, visit IBEX seminars.

Key Events Include:

Tuesday, September 27

• From 7:30 - 9:30 a.m., the Industry Breakfast kicks-off IBEX and gives all in attendance the opportunity to begin the show experience networking with marine industry friends and colleagues.? Held on the opening morning of the show, all attendees will enjoy breakfast while hearing an Industry Address from Frank Hugelmeyer, NMMA President, learn which new products are winners of IBEX Innovation Awards, and keynote speaker, Global Futurist, Speaker, and Author Jack Uldrich.
• Beginning at 6 p.m., exhibitors and visitors can celebrate the opening day of IBEX with drink specials and live music at The Sail Pavilion.

Wednesday, September 28

• From 3:30 - 5 p.m., Pitch the Press will be held in the 1st Floor Press Room of the Tampa Convention Center, with a Happy Hour to follow. This fast-paced live event for industry buyers and members of the press, features 12 product pitches from exhibiting companies selected by industry journalists.
• From 4 - 6 p.m., Emerging Marine Leaders Presents Strengthening Leadership through Brand Development + Networking. Connect, learn, share and expand your presence in the marine industry. Join EMLs and Industry veterans during this two-part event. Programming will begin with a presentation from Marissa Russo, Assistant Director of Career Readiness, University of Tampa. Following, these newly developed skills will be put to use during a private social networking event. The program is free to attend. Registration requested.
• From 5 - 6 p.m. on, visitors are invited to stroll the exhibit halls for this fun networking event, sponsored by Hertz Marine. Meet with exhibitors in this relaxed, casual atmosphere while enjoying food and beverage from the event sponsor and other participating exhibitors. This is a great way to network with suppliers and make new connections.

IBEX 1st and 2nd floor exhibit halls will open at 9 a.m. each day, an hour earlier than the 3rd floor, and will showcase products and services from companies new to the Show and industry. The 3rd floor will feature Specialty Pavilions including the Composites Pavilion; the Compliance, Standards, and Education Pavilion; and the NMEA Connected Electronics Pavilion. The Marina & Yard Pavilion will be located on the 1st floor.

For visitor registration, click www.ibexshow.com/register. Exhibiting companies should visit their Exhibitor Dashboard for booth staff registration. For more information on IBEX 2022, exhibiting companies, interactive exhibit hall floor plans, and more, please visit www.ibexshow.com.