SPEAKERS      ATTENDEES      SPONSORS     SCHOLARSHIPS      AWARDS      FAQs

NAEP is thrilled to announce the return of our premier event, now in its second year under a bold new identity: EPIC 2026 – the Educational Procurement Innovation Conference! Join us from March 29, 2026 to April 1, 2026 at the Gaylord Pacific Resort in San Diego, CA for a transformative experience in educational procurement like no other.

Formerly known as the NAEP Annual Meeting, EPIC is more than just a name—it’s a movement. It’s where procurement professionals, thought leaders, and solution providers gather to connect, learn, and lead the future of education procurement.

Save the dates and stay tuned for exciting updates as we prepare to make EPIC 2026 our most impactful conference yet.

Speakers & Sessions

Potential Session Topic Focus Areas

• Contracting and Risk Management
• Supplier Relationship Management
• Spend Management & Category Optimization
• Team Development and Structure
• Emerging Trends and Technologies
  
  

Attendee Experience

At EPIC, we're setting the stage for a future where innovation and education procurement converge. This is not your typical conference; it's a dynamic platform where visionaries, educators, procurement professionals, and thought leaders come together to shape the future of education. EPIC 2026 is designed to spark ideas, share knowledge, and equip you with strategies to elevate procurement at your institution.

What Can You Expect at EPIC?

• Inspirational Keynotes: Hear from bold thinkers and leaders shaping the future of educational procurement.
• Interactive Workshops: Gain actionable insights and tools that you can implement right away.
• Unmatched Networking: Meet peers from across the country who are solving similar challenges and driving innovation.
• Cutting-Edge Technologies: Discover what’s next in procurement technology and strategic sourcing.
• Engaging Discussions: Participate in critical conversations about the evolution of procurement in higher education.

Sponsor & Exhibit Information

Calling all suppliers, consultants, GPOs, cooperatives, and solution providers in education procurement! Sponsoring or exhibiting at EPIC 2026 is your opportunity to connect with hundreds of procurement decision-makers from higher education institutions nationwide.

Why partner with NAEP at EPIC 2026?

• Targeted Exposure – Reach procurement leaders from 2-year, 4-year, and research institutions.
• Strategic Networking – Build relationships with key influencers and buyers.
• Thought Leadership – Share your expertise with a highly engaged audience.
• Real Market Insights – Understand current challenges and procurement priorities.
• Brand Amplification – Maximize your visibility before, during, and after the event.

Don't miss out on this unparalleled opportunity to position your brand as a leader in educational procurement! Join us at EPIC 2025 and make your mark on the future of education.

Scholarships

NAEP will again offer scholarships for procurement professionals looking to attend but facing budget constraints. These scholarships ensure accessibility and help expand the reach of procurement education and leadership development.

More details and the application process will be announced soon.

National Awards

The NAEP National Awards program honors individuals and institutions making a significant impact in the procurement field. From visionary leadership to operational excellence, we recognize innovation that shapes the future.

Submissions will open in September 1st —get ready to nominate yourself or a colleague!

FAQs

When and where will EPIC 2026 take place?
EPIC 2026 will be held at the Gaylord Pacific Resort in San Diego, CA, from March 29 - April 1, 2026.

What is EPIC 2026?
EPIC stands for the Educational Procurement Innovation Conference, NAEP’s flagship national event bringing together procurement professionals from across the education sector.

Who should attend?
Anyone involved in educational procurement, including procurement professionals, administrators, finance and facilities leaders, suppliers, consultants, GPOs, and cooperatives.

How can I become a sponsor or exhibitor?
Contact us at partner@naepnet.org to discuss available opportunities and benefits.

When will registration open?
Registration and pricing will be announced in the coming months. Subscribe to The NAEP Pulse and follow us on social media for updates.

How do I stay updated on EPIC 2026?
Visit our site regularly, subscribe to our newsletter, and follow us on LinkedIn, Twitter, and Facebook.