Protocol and Diplomacy International - Protocol Officers Association
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25th Annual International Protocol Education Forum
Monday, July 20, 2026 to Thursday, July 23, 2026
Category: Events

 

25th Annual International Protocol Education Forum

Theme: Precision & Pace: Navigating Protocol and Diplomacy in a Fast-Moving World

The 2026 PDI-POA International Educational Forum, hosted in Indianapolis, Indiana—home of the iconic Indianapolis 500— explores how protocol professionals can balance precision, diplomacy, and agility in an ever-accelerating world.

Inspired by the strategy and speed of racing, this year’s theme highlights the importance of mastering protocol fundamentals while adapting to global challenges with confidence and composure. Attendees will gain insights, sharpen their skills, and build connections through dynamic education sessions, networking, and cultural experiences—all celebrating the drive, teamwork, and focus that define excellence on both the racetrack and the world stage.

Forum registration will open in November giving attendees the opportunity to take advantage of various fiscal years, gain approval from their organizations, and secure their spot at the Forum.

Forum registration will open in December.

 

Agenda

Registration Information

Forum Hotel

Host City

Annual Sponsorship Program

Frequently Asked Questions

 

Agenda

A detailed agenda will be updated as sessions, speakers, and activities are confirmed. Below is a tentative draft schedule. *All times & locations are subject to change.

Below is a tentative draft schedule. *All times & locations are subject to change.


 
Monday 20 July 2026
3:00PM - 5:30PM Forum On-Site Registration
4:00PM - 5:00PM New Member & 1st Timer Gathering
5:30PM - 7:30PM Opening Reception - Opening Remarks, Parade of Nations
Tuesday 21 July 2026
9:00AM - 12:00PM Morning Plenary & Educational Sessions
12:00PM - 1:15PM Networking Lunch
1:30PM - 4:30PM Afternoon Plenary & Education Sessions
5:00PM Evening on your own
Wednesday 22 July 2026
9:00AM - 12:00PM Morning Plenary & Educational Sessions
12:00PM - 1:15PM Networking Lunch
1:30PM - 4:30PM Afternoon Plenary & Educational Sessions
5:00PM Evening on your own
Thursday 23 July 2026
9:00AM - 12:00PM  Morning Plenary & Educational Sessions
12:00PM - 1:15PM Networking Lunch
1:30PM - 4:30PM Afternoon Plenary & Educational Sessions
4:30PM - 5:00PM Closing Remarks
6:00PM - 8:00PM

Closing Reception

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Annual International Protocol Education Forum is an investment in your professional development and future in the world of protocol and diplomacy. Click here to download a document that can help you to build your business case for your employer to support your continuing education in this field.

The Forum will utilize its Event App to capture the agenda, notifications, handouts, speaker bios, and create a community for attendees.

 



Registration Information

Registration is open through 16 June. Space is limited - we recommend registering early to secure your spot. 

 Register Today
 
2026 Forum Registration Rates
  Early Registration: Dec - 30 April Regular Registration: 1 May - 16 June
PDI-POA Member $995 US $1295 US
Non-Member $2095 US $2095 US

 

 

 

 

Full registration includes: opening reception, closing reception, all plenary and breakout sessions, and all networking lunches and breaks, as well as transportation to and from off-site session locations.

Closing reception is included in your Forum ticket for the event. If you would like to invite a guest to the closing reception, you can register them in your registration form. All guests will have an additional cost.

Single Day packages: availability of offering guest packages will be assessed in April to ensure that PDI-POA members and non-members interested in full registration have priority due to limited capacity. (UPDATE if available -includes: access to opening reception and one off-site plenary session with accompanying activities and transportation.)
PDI-POA members in good standing receive discounted registration rates for the Annual International Protocol Education Forum as a benefit of membership. To access the early member registration rate, new members must complete their application and pay their membership fees in full on or before 15 April 2026. To access the regular member registration rate, new members must complete their application and pay their membership fees in full on or before 10 June 2026.
All fees are to be paid in full prior to arrival at the Forum. Questions should be directed to [email protected].

Forum Hotel

The official Forum hotel, The Conrad Hotel, is located in the heart of downtown Indianapolis. Featuring the renowned Collection Suites and a gallery of works by Warhol, Dalí, and Picasso, the hotel offers an inspiring blend of art and elegance. Enjoy downtown’s full-service hotel spa, exceptional dining, and close proximity to Monument Circle, Lucas Oil Stadium, and Gainbridge Fieldhouse. 

Forum attendees have the special room rate of $189 plus tax per night now through June 26 or until the room block is full

 



Host City

We are delighted to host the 2026 International Protocol Educational Forum in Indianapolis, IN, USA! Learn more about the city and the many things to do while you visit!

Annual Sponsorship Program

The Forum is a unique opportunity for sponsors to have direct contact with decision makers and influencers in more than 100 organizations, companies, governments, etc. represented. Interested partners can learn more about the sponsorship opportunities HERE


 

Frequently Asked Questions

Have a question? We have our Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) outlined for you here.

Contact: [email protected]