BEGIN:VCALENDAR
VERSION:2.0
X-WR-CALNAME:pubu2026
X-WR-CALDESC:Event Calendar
METHOD:PUBLISH
CALSCALE:GREGORIAN
PRODID:-//Sched.com IBPA Publishing University 2026//EN
X-WR-TIMEZONE:UTC
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260518T165521Z
DTSTART:20260514T110001Z
DTEND:20260514T110001Z
SUMMARY:Not Yet Registered for IBPA PubU26? Click Here
DESCRIPTION:We hope you'll join us for IBPA Publishing University 2025\, May 15-17\, 2025 in St. Paul\, Minnesota.\nPlease click here to register.\n\nLooking for information on the IBPA Think Tank for Established Publishers? Click here.
CATEGORIES:
LOCATION:Minneapolis\, MN\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:57c550247665d08ca8ed1baffb137a48
URL:http://pubu2026.sched.com/event/57c550247665d08ca8ed1baffb137a48
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260518T165521Z
DTSTART:20260514T110001Z
DTEND:20260514T110001Z
SUMMARY:Parking information for the Hyatt Regency Portland at the Convention Center
DESCRIPTION:Self-Parking Garage is located on NE 2nd Ave between Multnomah Street and NE Holladay Street.\nIn and out privileges and ability to charge to guest rooms. Self-Parking rates:\n $5 - per hour \n$13 - Early Bird (in by 10am)\n$16 - 12 hour max\n$35 - Overnight (24 hour max)\n$15 Evening and Weekends (up to 12 hours)\n\nValet Parking is located at the hotel entrance\, 300 NE Multnomah Street.\nIn and out privileges and ability to charge to guest rooms. Valet Parking rates:\n$20 for the first 3 hours\n$7 - per each additional hour\n$45 - Overnight (24 hour max)\n\nSee you soon!
CATEGORIES:
LOCATION:Minneapolis\, MN\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:8e6a5c5216107efdf0a47415b4c8b6b6
URL:http://pubu2026.sched.com/event/8e6a5c5216107efdf0a47415b4c8b6b6
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260518T165521Z
DTSTART:20260514T110001Z
DTEND:20260514T110001Z
SUMMARY:Watch our conference orientation video here (plus "Portland Perks")
DESCRIPTION:Watch the conference orientation that we recorded on Friday\, May 1\, 2026:&nbsp\;\n\nhttps://us06web.zoom.us/rec/share/m3CuCx7hrHGKtv3-PphCWSBcjVrK-4tIcbTiFVfDqgQnDb43Zh-NS_pN2hIA7pA8.aHA2OIMW_IDdvuKa?startTime=1777654867000\n\nPasscode: %8Ube!!*\n\nThe orientation slides are also attached to this session here in Sched.\n\nIn addition\, we invite you to check out the attached file with "Portland Perks\," discounts for when you're visiting Portland.\n\nWe look forward to seeing you soon!
CATEGORIES:
LOCATION:Minneapolis\, MN\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:2451447138bfde0a689876cfc6ed84ea
URL:http://pubu2026.sched.com/event/2451447138bfde0a689876cfc6ed84ea
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260518T165521Z
DTSTART:20260514T150000Z
DTEND:20260514T230000Z
SUMMARY:Thursday Registration Opens
DESCRIPTION:Come by registration after 8:00am on Thursday to get your badge and conference bag. Attending an afternoon workshop or our Think Tank for Established Publishers? You'll need to register and get your badge first.\n\nIf you're attending the IBPA Think Tank for Established Publishers\, head over to our venue at Portland State University\, and you'll check in there. (That registration opens at 10am and the Think Tank starts at 11am.) Thanks!
CATEGORIES:
LOCATION:Hyatt Regency - Regency Ballroom Foyer (2nd floor)\, Minneapolis\, MN\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:54be62a02c307abe7cbad72eb39f8d00
URL:http://pubu2026.sched.com/event/54be62a02c307abe7cbad72eb39f8d00
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260518T165521Z
DTSTART:20260514T160000Z
DTEND:20260514T180000Z
SUMMARY:Market with Precision. Sell at Scale. (IngramSpark free workshop for conference attendees)
DESCRIPTION:Selling more books isn’t about doing more marketing — it’s about doing the right marketing in the right order. In this fast-paced\, strategy-driven workshop\, industry experts break down the three-level framework that turns visibility into credibility and credibility into revenue. From metadata and market positioning to branding\, retailer expectations\, paid promotion\, and global expansion\, you’ll learn how to build a marketing engine that scales. Whether you’re looking to strengthen your U.S. reach or expand internationally\, you’ll leave with a clear\, actionable framework you can implement immediately. \n\nAttention earns awareness. Trust earns loyalty. Strategy earns sales.&nbsp\;
CATEGORIES:THURSDAY WORKSHOPS
LOCATION:Hyatt Regency - Willamette 1 (2nd floor)\, Minneapolis\, MN\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:2fa886e61b06e332f18f1ec84ec3b3dc
URL:http://pubu2026.sched.com/event/2fa886e61b06e332f18f1ec84ec3b3dc
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260518T165521Z
DTSTART:20260514T180000Z
DTEND:20260514T233000Z
SUMMARY:IBPA Think Tank for Established Publishers
DESCRIPTION:IBPA Think Tank for Established Publishers\nA day of expert-level peer-to-peer discussions with tailored tracks for:\nExecutives and C-Suite\nEditorial/Production Key Staff\nMarketing/Sales Key Staff\n\nOne member of your publishing team must be a conference attendee with a one-day\, two-day\, or three-day ticket. Separate registration for additional staff is available at a discounted rate here.\n\nOur wireframe agenda:\n10:30am Registration opens outside room 329 on the third floor.\n\n11:00am-11:35am Plenary welcome and Idea XChange panel with Grace Hagen (Midwest Independent Booksellers Association)\, Victoria Sutherland (Foreword Reviews)\,&nbsp\;Matthew Mansfield (NielsenIQ BookData)\, and Brad Farmer (Gibbs Smith) in room 329.\n\n11:45am-1:00pm&nbsp\; Peer Group Discussions 1 - \n Executive (facilitated by Michele Cobb and Victoria Sutherland)&nbsp\;in room 329.\nSales & Marketing (facilitated by Kalen Landow and Laura Stanfill) in room 294.\nEditorial & Design (facilitated by Lauren Wise and Leigh McDonald) in room 333.\n\n1:00pm - 2:15pm&nbsp\; IBPA+PubWest Design Awards Luncheon&nbsp\;&nbsp\;in room 329.\n\n2:30pm - 3:45pm&nbsp\; Breakout sessions 2 - \nInventory Management\, Production\, & Supply Chain (facilitated by Amy Barrett-Daffin and Molly Merkle)&nbsp\;in room 329.\nSales & Marketing (facilitated by Angela Engel and Brooke Warner)&nbsp\;in room 294.\nEditorial & Design (facilitated by JuLee Brand and Karla Olson)&nbsp\;in room 333.\n\n4:00pm - 4:30pm Closing session in room 329.\n\nAnd we invite you to go directly from the Think Tank to Literature and Libations\, our conference-opening cocktail reception at Powells from 5pm-7pm!\n\n[If you are driving and need to park for Think Tank\, please use Parking Structure 1 at 1872 SW Broadway\, kitty corner from the student union building.]\n\n[Getting to Portland State University: https://www.pdx.edu/blog/getting-campus-transportation-and-psu\nTriMet Max train &nbsp\;Green Line &nbsp\;from Oregon Convention Center light rail stop just outside the Hyatt Regency hotel\, look for train going west/south to City Center & PSU&nbsp\;Max train stops at "PSU Urban Center/SW 5th & Mill" (about 7 quick stops total - 20 minute trip)&nbsp\;About $3 using Hop Fast Pass card you can load with a credit card at station stops.]
CATEGORIES:IBPA THINK TANK
LOCATION:Portland State University\, Smith Memorial Student Union 329\, 1825 SW Broadway Dr\, Portland\, OR 97201\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:41566c4113b0b3c0a6787e5283749645
URL:http://pubu2026.sched.com/event/41566c4113b0b3c0a6787e5283749645
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260518T165521Z
DTSTART:20260514T190000Z
DTEND:20260514T230000Z
SUMMARY:Thursday Workshop: Grants\, Funding\, & Other Opportunities for Under-Resourced Indie Publishers
DESCRIPTION:For author publishers and micro publishers who are figuring out the business of publishing&nbsp\;\n&nbsp\;\nAre you full of literary dreams\, visions\, and goals that are bigger than your budget? Don't get discouraged because in this workshop\, you will be empowered and equipped with the resources\, systems\, strategies\, and techniques to help you achieve\, manifest\, and reach them. If you are an author or publisher looking to build\, scale\, and grow your publishing business\, and would like the resources you need to do so\, then this is the workshop you don't want to miss.&nbsp\;\n&nbsp\;\nTo help you maximize the workshop\, consider investing in the following companion curriculum and resources:&nbsp\;\n&nbsp\;\nMake a Living as a Writer (hardcopy curriculum): &nbsp\;\nhttps://www.pathtopublishing.com/conferencestore\n&nbsp\;\nAct Like an Author\, Think Like a Business: Ways to Achieve Financial Literary Success:&nbsp\;https://www.pathtopublishing.com/actlikeanauthorbook\n\n
CATEGORIES:THURSDAY WORKSHOPS
LOCATION:Hyatt Regency - Willamette 3 (2nd floor)\, Minneapolis\, MN\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:356d85d684c323ec82bf389a4efcbdf3
URL:http://pubu2026.sched.com/event/356d85d684c323ec82bf389a4efcbdf3
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260518T165521Z
DTSTART:20260514T190000Z
DTEND:20260514T230000Z
SUMMARY:Thursday Workshop: Marketing Launch Plan Workshop: Build\, Customize\, and Scale Your Book Campaigns
DESCRIPTION:Marketing Launch Plan Workshop: Build\, Customize\, and Scale Your Book Campaigns\n\nIn this hands-on workshop\, attendees will create a customized launch plan for a specific book title—while simultaneously learning how to scale and adapt that plan across multiple titles for long-term publishing success.\nLaunching a book is only part of the journey—positioning it effectively in the market determines its success. This workshop is designed to help publishers\, authors\, and marketing teams connect the dots between publishing and promotion by identifying clear paths to reach readers\, generate sales\, and build brand equity for future titles.\n&nbsp\;Participants will create and leave with a title-specific personalized marketing toolkit that includes:\nTarget reader and buyer identificationTitle-specific business model strategies (retail\, non-traditional retail\, specialty markets\, and supplemental revenue streams)Universal marketing strategies and actionable stepsCustomized promotional activities and marketing toolsEvent\, traditional media\, and digital engagement pitch letter modelsOne genre/topic-specific media listSpecialty market outreach overview and strategiesSocial media marketing plan template and engagement strategiesBook trailer templateMedia video pitching tutorial\nThis workshop is ideal for authors\, publishers\, and marketing professionals looking to develop powerful\, repeatable book launch systems that build visibility\, drive sales\, and create long-term success.
CATEGORIES:THURSDAY WORKSHOPS
LOCATION:Hyatt Regency - Willamette 1 (2nd floor)\, Minneapolis\, MN\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:ba0d1ebc450eb454ae6a7ac90a3e8f0f
URL:http://pubu2026.sched.com/event/ba0d1ebc450eb454ae6a7ac90a3e8f0f
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260518T165521Z
DTSTART:20260514T190000Z
DTEND:20260514T230000Z
SUMMARY:Thursday Workshop: Optimizing Amazon for Profit in an AI Age
DESCRIPTION:Optimizing Amazon for Profit in an AI Age\nPresented by Ian Lamont\n\nAmazon Ads. Kindle Direct Publishing. Vendor Central. No matter which way you turn\, Amazon is always finding another way to take a bigger slice of the revenue pie ... and leave less for publishers. So how can publishers put some of that money back into their own pockets?\n\nAn experienced independent publisher and Amazon seller\, Ian Lamont has deep insights into ever-evolving Amazon programs and new AI features. While he doesn't have a magic wand\, he has best practices that can help everyone from independent authors to distributed publishers make more money from sales on Amazon.\n\nCome prepared with your three biggest concerns about Amazon and your best listening skills. This fast-moving session will leave you with tons of notes and resources\, and will feature an opportunity for on-the-spot evaluations of your own Amazon book listings.\n\nTopics will include:\nAn Amazon Roadmap for Publishers in an age of AIDetail Page Optimization for BooksSearch and Rufus FundamentalsBest Practices for Amazon Ads &nbsp\;Branding on Amazon\, from A+ to Amazon Stores\n
CATEGORIES:THURSDAY WORKSHOPS
LOCATION:Hyatt Regency - Willamette 7 (2nd floor)\, Minneapolis\, MN\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:0420a8d7139994db29d78906775ef83e
URL:http://pubu2026.sched.com/event/0420a8d7139994db29d78906775ef83e
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260518T165521Z
DTSTART:20260514T190000Z
DTEND:20260514T230000Z
SUMMARY:Thursday Workshop: Starting Your Publishing Business
DESCRIPTION:For Start Strong Independent Publishers.\n\nLearn the basics of starting your own traditional publishing company. Whether you are at square one or already running another kind of publishing-related operation\, this program will introduce the key points you need to know in order to get your traditional press up and running. Doug Seibold started his company\, Agate\, in 2002 with little more than a cell phone\, a laptop\, and an internet connection\, and is eager to share his experience and perspective with aspiring publishers. This program will cover:Finding potential funding sources—grants\, investors\, banksDetermining your publishing topics and acquisition strategyUnderstanding the publishing financial timelineDeciding who to hire and when to hire themParticipants should leave with a fuller understanding of everything that goes into a publishing startup.
CATEGORIES:THURSDAY WORKSHOPS
LOCATION:Hyatt Regency - Willamette 5 (2nd floor)\, Minneapolis\, MN\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:973e81fd298696acd65c8c819c7e3af7
URL:http://pubu2026.sched.com/event/973e81fd298696acd65c8c819c7e3af7
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260518T165521Z
DTSTART:20260515T000000Z
DTEND:20260515T020000Z
SUMMARY:Welcome Reception - Literature & Libations
DESCRIPTION:Join us at Powell's flagship store\, 1005 W Burnside St. Portland\, OR 97209 -- it's the largest independent bookstore in the world!!\n\nFree reception for all IBPA Publishing University conference attendees\, IBPA Think Tank for Established Publisher attendees\, as well as our Pacific Northwest publishing industry friends.\n\n[Getting to&nbsp\;Powell's City of Books From the Hyatt Regency Portland at the Oregon Convention Center:\nOption A: \nMass Transit\, Red Line Train\nWalk to the TriMet MAX light rail stop outside the hotel.Board the Red Line&nbsp\;train going west to City Center or Beaverton direction.Scan your credit card or Apple/Google Pay on your phone to pay. Cost is $2.80.Get off at the “Galleria SW 10th Avenue" station which is the 6th&nbsp\;stop.Walk north on 10th Ave to Powell's City of Books\, approximately 6 minutes (0.3 miles).]Option B: \nWalking\nDistance is 1.3 miles\, approximately 30 minutes\n[Getting to&nbsp\;Powell's City of Books From Portland State University:\nOption A: \nMass transit Portland Streetcar: From PSU student union\, walk north about a block to the SW Park & Mill transit stop. Streetcar is NS Line (North South Line) going north toward NW 23rd Ave. Get off the streetcar at the NW 10th & Couch station. Go immediately around the corner to the W Burnside Powell's City of Books entrance.\nOption B:\nYou can also use the Max Green or Yellow line\, board at PSU South/SW 6th & College MAX Station taking train headed to Clackamas TC\, get off at 6th&nbsp\;& Pine stop\, and walk 1/3 mile north-east to Powells.]
CATEGORIES:COMMUNITY BUILDING
LOCATION:Powell's City of Books\, 3rd Floor Pearl Room\, 1005 W Burnside St. Portland\, OR. 97209
SEQUENCE:0
UID:a2c1ad175a3aecb38bba86bf30d75eca
URL:http://pubu2026.sched.com/event/a2c1ad175a3aecb38bba86bf30d75eca
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260518T165521Z
DTSTART:20260515T143000Z
DTEND:20260515T230000Z
SUMMARY:Friday Registration Opens
DESCRIPTION:Come by registration from 7:30am-4:00pm on Friday to get your badge and conference bag. Attending a breakfast small group Ask-the-Experts and/or welcome first timers? You'll need to register and get your badge first.
CATEGORIES:
LOCATION:Hyatt Regency - Regency Ballroom Foyer (2nd floor)\, Minneapolis\, MN\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:5c673a1ea3c0c0379a04d0de560763f4
URL:http://pubu2026.sched.com/event/5c673a1ea3c0c0379a04d0de560763f4
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260518T165521Z
DTSTART:20260515T150000Z
DTEND:20260515T164500Z
SUMMARY:Breakfast with Small Group Ask the Experts\, Peer Tables\, and Open Tables (included)
DESCRIPTION:Three Options for Friday Breakfast:\n(1)\nGroup Ask-the-Experts 1: 8:15am-8:40am\nGroup Ask-the-Experts 2: 8:45am-9:10am\nGroup Ask-the-Experts 3: 9:15am-9:40am\n\nEvery group “Ask the Experts” consultation on Friday morning has open spaces that are available for any attendee. You’ll see the topics and experts for each time slot posted on each table. The sign also lists the names of those who have reserved seats\, and the number of open spaces. You can see the Group Ask the Experts schedule as an attached file on this session in Sched.\n\n(2)\nThere are also peer tables (with no designated expert) during Friday morning where folks will gather to discuss Children’s Publishing\, Hybrid Publishing\, Distribution\, Book Marketing\, and Author-Publishing (a.k.a. Self-Publishing).\n \n(3)\nTables with no signs are open seating\, where chance and serendipity will be your guide to new conversations\, colleagues\, and friends!
CATEGORIES:COMMUNITY BUILDING
LOCATION:Hyatt Regency - Regency Ballroom (2nd floor)\, Minneapolis\, MN\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:97bd288b0858d944ca5e18a4bc925f62
URL:http://pubu2026.sched.com/event/97bd288b0858d944ca5e18a4bc925f62
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260518T165521Z
DTSTART:20260515T170000Z
DTEND:20260515T174500Z
SUMMARY:Welcome First Timers! Learn How to Get the Most out of IBPA Publishing University
DESCRIPTION:Come in person with your questions!\n\nYou can also watch the conference orientation that we will record in advance.
CATEGORIES:COMMUNITY BUILDING
LOCATION:Hyatt Regency - Willamette 1 (2nd floor)\, Minneapolis\, MN\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:8f1e7fd521b7747d73c101dca2c72271
URL:http://pubu2026.sched.com/event/8f1e7fd521b7747d73c101dca2c72271
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260518T165521Z
DTSTART:20260515T173000Z
DTEND:20260516T003000Z
SUMMARY:Exhibit Hall Hours (meet our sponsors!)
DESCRIPTION:Meet our sponsors in person!
CATEGORIES:
LOCATION:Hyatt Regency Portland\, Oregon Convention Center - Regency Ballroom & Foyer\, 375 NE Holladay St\, Portland\, OR 97232\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:38cf736a43bee9695e415e6f0fcf125c
URL:http://pubu2026.sched.com/event/38cf736a43bee9695e415e6f0fcf125c
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260518T165521Z
DTSTART:20260515T180000Z
DTEND:20260515T190000Z
SUMMARY:Welcome and Opening Keynote by Donald Miller: Rise Above the Noise. Connect With More Customers.
DESCRIPTION:Our program begins!\n\nAndrea Fleck-Nisbet\, IBPA's CEO\, will welcome everyone and introduce our opening keynote speaker\,&nbsp\;\nDonald Miller\, New York Times bestselling author of Building a StoryBrand.\n\nRise Above the Noise. Connect With More Customers.\nIn 2017\, Dave Ramsey called Building a StoryBrand the most effective framework for cutting through digital noise. Over 1 million copies of the book have sold\, and global brands like TREK\, TOMS\, and The Economist use it to drive growth. Whether you own a publishing business\, are marketing a book or a cause\, or building your publisher or author brand... Donald Miller’s proven seven-part story formula can help your message cut through the chaos because brand storytelling captures attention\, transforms customers’ lives\, and fuels business growth.\n\nThe audio file is attached. Transcript will be added in early June.
CATEGORIES:PLENARY
LOCATION:Hyatt Regency - Regency Ballroom (2nd floor)\, Minneapolis\, MN\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:5540495184d723520a6f1c2bc81b9b8e
URL:http://pubu2026.sched.com/event/5540495184d723520a6f1c2bc81b9b8e
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260518T165521Z
DTSTART:20260515T190000Z
DTEND:20260515T194000Z
SUMMARY:Lunch & Meet Our Sponsors (and Donald Miller Book Signing)
DESCRIPTION:Grab lunch (included with your conference registration) and meet our sponsors!
CATEGORIES:COMMUNITY BUILDING
LOCATION:Hyatt Regency Portland\, Oregon Convention Center - Regency Ballroom & Foyer\, 375 NE Holladay St\, Portland\, OR 97232\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:589a1adc333fd017cec80c1d3bc73361
URL:http://pubu2026.sched.com/event/589a1adc333fd017cec80c1d3bc73361
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260518T165521Z
DTSTART:20260515T194000Z
DTEND:20260515T200000Z
SUMMARY:Rittenhouse Award Presented to Mark Ouimet
DESCRIPTION:Join us for the Rittenhouse Award presentation\, given to Marc Ouimet\, and presented by Brooke Warner!
CATEGORIES:COMMUNITY BUILDING
LOCATION:Hyatt Regency - Regency Ballroom (2nd floor)\, Minneapolis\, MN\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:ef75efe84efe7e11a08b02e763407f75
URL:http://pubu2026.sched.com/event/ef75efe84efe7e11a08b02e763407f75
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260518T165521Z
DTSTART:20260515T201500Z
DTEND:20260515T211500Z
SUMMARY:Breakout 1 (Established Publishers) - Inventory Management
DESCRIPTION:Session description and faculty TBA.\n\nThe Established Publisher breakout sessions are intended for independent publishers who have an established business and experience in the industry\, and are looking to successfully grow and scale their publishing company. (Generally you will have been in the publishing industry for at least four years\, and have published more than ten titles.)&nbsp\;Please note that if you are just starting out and you attend an Established Independent Publisher session you are auditing the class\, and we ask that you not take up session time with beginner-level questions.\n\nThe audio file is attached. Transcript will be added in early June.\n\n
CATEGORIES:BREAKOUT SESSIONS + ASK THE EXPERTS
LOCATION:Hyatt Regency - Willamette 3 (2nd floor)\, Minneapolis\, MN\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:ce3a15c3ff0bf14a0bd1c4dab602dc92
URL:http://pubu2026.sched.com/event/ce3a15c3ff0bf14a0bd1c4dab602dc92
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260518T165521Z
DTSTART:20260515T201500Z
DTEND:20260515T211500Z
SUMMARY:Breakout 1 (Hot Topics A) - Audiobooks: Leveraging Subrights\, Production\, and Distribution for Success
DESCRIPTION:Designed for both self-published authors and independent presses\, this panel provides key insights for capitalizing on your content. Learn how to sell your audiobook rights\, navigate the complexities of production (DIY vs. studio)\, and master distribution channels (retailers\, libraries\, direct) to ensure your titles—in all formats—reach the widest possible audience and maximize revenue.\n\nThe audio file is attached. Transcript will be added in early June.\n\n
CATEGORIES:BREAKOUT SESSIONS + ASK THE EXPERTS
LOCATION:Hyatt Regency - Willamette 1 (2nd floor)\, Minneapolis\, MN\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:91cf291aefa37aa20cddf5f8e2f53dbf
URL:http://pubu2026.sched.com/event/91cf291aefa37aa20cddf5f8e2f53dbf
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260518T165521Z
DTSTART:20260515T201500Z
DTEND:20260515T211500Z
SUMMARY:Breakout 1 (Hot Topics B) - A Post-Funnel Approach to Book Marketing (with AI)
DESCRIPTION:The rules of discovery have changed. The old funnel model of ads and keywords and the funnel of “reader magnet → nurture email → sale” is collapsing under the weight of AI-driven discovery and content saturation. Sarah Bean of Book Launchers shares how successful author-publishers are replacing funnels with ecosystems that attract readers through visibility\, trust\, and ongoing connection.\n\nAttendees will learn:\nWhy “lead magnets” and traditional funnels are failing and what’s replacing them.\nHow LLMs and AI discovery are reshaping how readers find and evaluate books (and how to make this work in your favor).\nMaking the new Ecosystem Framework work for you.\n\nYou’ll leave with a roadmap to evolve your author platform for the post-funnel era and create a world where content is surfaced by algorithms\, not ad campaigns.\n\nThe audio file is attached. Transcript will be added in early June.
CATEGORIES:BREAKOUT SESSIONS + ASK THE EXPERTS
LOCATION:Hyatt Regency - Willamette 5 (2nd floor)\, Minneapolis\, MN\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:5b8abd9683bf245b55b3c24e92b26276
URL:http://pubu2026.sched.com/event/5b8abd9683bf245b55b3c24e92b26276
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260518T165521Z
DTSTART:20260515T201500Z
DTEND:20260515T211500Z
SUMMARY:Breakout 1 (Publishing 101) - Market Research for Emerging Publishers
DESCRIPTION:Market Research for Emerging Publishers: Before saying “yes” to a manuscript\, smart publishers know to dig deeper. This session will walk author-publishers and emerging presses through the essential steps of market research that inform sound publishing decisions. Learn how to evaluate an author’s platform and audience potential\, analyze genre and category trends\, identify comparable titles\, and study cover and metadata patterns that signal market positioning. We’ll also discuss the need to assess who else is publishing in your space\, track performance post-publication\, and refine your future acquisitions strategy. Whether you’re preparing to launch your first title or building a sustainable list\, this session will give you ideas and tools to publish with confidence and clarity.\n\nPresented by Michelle Halket\, Publisher of Central Avenue.\n\nThe audio file is attached. Transcript will be added in early June.\n\n
CATEGORIES:BREAKOUT SESSIONS + ASK THE EXPERTS
LOCATION:Hyatt Regency - Willamette 7 (2nd floor)\, Minneapolis\, MN\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:e16f28b81627276297fe9bdae6185a68
URL:http://pubu2026.sched.com/event/e16f28b81627276297fe9bdae6185a68
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260518T165521Z
DTSTART:20260515T201500Z
DTEND:20260515T211500Z
SUMMARY:Main Ballroom & Foyer (During Breakout Session 1) - Meet our Sponsors!
DESCRIPTION:Another option during Breakout 1 is that you can chat with our sponsors!\n\n
CATEGORIES:BREAKOUT SESSIONS + ASK THE EXPERTS
LOCATION:Hyatt Regency Portland\, Oregon Convention Center - Regency Ballroom & Foyer\, 375 NE Holladay St\, Portland\, OR 97232\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:cde65f83558bc6597a37e97da0878bc8
URL:http://pubu2026.sched.com/event/cde65f83558bc6597a37e97da0878bc8
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260518T165521Z
DTSTART:20260515T211500Z
DTEND:20260515T214500Z
SUMMARY:Friday Afternoon Ask the Experts\, Snack\, and Meet Our Sponsors!
DESCRIPTION:Grab a free snack\, chat with some of our conference sponsors\, and connect with your community!\n\nAsk the Experts one-expert-with-one-attendee sessions will also happen at this time:\n(1) 2:20pm-2:35pm\; (2) 2:40-2:55pm\nSign up information to come.
CATEGORIES:COMMUNITY BUILDING
LOCATION:Hyatt Regency Portland\, Oregon Convention Center - Regency Ballroom & Foyer\, 375 NE Holladay St\, Portland\, OR 97232\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:39ecc72f37a4d088f6f98116e4a6234a
URL:http://pubu2026.sched.com/event/39ecc72f37a4d088f6f98116e4a6234a
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260518T165521Z
DTSTART:20260515T220000Z
DTEND:20260515T230000Z
SUMMARY:Breakout 2 (Established Publishers) - Rights Licensing
DESCRIPTION:If you're planning to attend\, please take our brief pre-conference session survey here: https://wkf.ms/4sH1bpb\n\nDo you want to extend your brand's reach through rights licensing? Join a panel of rights experts for a conversation on best practices\, tips\, tricks\, trends\, and tools that you can use to reach new audiences! In this collaborative session\, you'll not only learn how you can build and grow your licensing program with insights from rights professionals working in the industry\, but you'll gain perspectives from your fellow session attendees\, too! You'll walk away with not just new knowledge\, but actionable steps that you can take tomorrow to push your rights program into new markets domestically and internationally.\n\nThe Established Publisher breakout sessions are intended for independent publishers who have an established business and experience in the industry\, and are looking to successfully grow and scale their publishing company. (Generally you will have been in the publishing industry for at least four years\, and have published more than ten titles.)&nbsp\;Please note that if you are just starting out and you attend an Established Independent Publisher session you are auditing the class\, and we ask that you not take up session time with beginner-level questions.\n\nThe audio file is attached. Transcript will be added in early June.
CATEGORIES:BREAKOUT SESSIONS + ASK THE EXPERTS
LOCATION:Hyatt Regency - Willamette 3 (2nd floor)\, Minneapolis\, MN\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:39072bcdaa544f59a15fdf7f9765f364
URL:http://pubu2026.sched.com/event/39072bcdaa544f59a15fdf7f9765f364
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260518T165521Z
DTSTART:20260515T220000Z
DTEND:20260515T230000Z
SUMMARY:Breakout 2 (Hot Topics A) - Direct to Consumer (D2C) Advantages\, Issues\, and Solutions
DESCRIPTION:As trade sale margins get squeezed\, selling direct to consumers offers larger margins and the ability to have direct (and continued) communication for promotion of future sales to the same customer. How do you calculate the ROI cost for acquiring new customers? How do you sell direct to consumers without alienating your trade channels? What solutions exist for managing orders\, shipping\, and customer communications? And what else do you need to consider?&nbsp\;\nJoin Lee Klancher (publisher\, Octane Press)\, Marty Schoenleber III (Sr. Manager\, IngramSpark)\, and Jason Glaspey (co-founder\, Fleet of Geniuses) for this panel that will unpack what you need to know about steering your publishing business to include a D2C strategy.&nbsp\;\n\nThe audio file is attached. Transcript will be added in early June.
CATEGORIES:BREAKOUT SESSIONS + ASK THE EXPERTS
LOCATION:Hyatt Regency - Willamette 1 (2nd floor)\, Minneapolis\, MN\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:13ac95cc5bcb245ae0abce734b409076
URL:http://pubu2026.sched.com/event/13ac95cc5bcb245ae0abce734b409076
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260518T165521Z
DTSTART:20260515T220000Z
DTEND:20260515T230000Z
SUMMARY:Breakout 2 (Hot Topics B) - Large Print Books - Why and How to Add Them to Your Publishing Program
DESCRIPTION:Large-print books are one of the fastest-growing opportunities in publishing\, yet many authors and publishers are still unsure how to approach them. In this session\, attendees will learn why large-print editions matter\, who relies on them\, and why librarians are actively seeking to add more large-print titles to their collections. You may be surprised by the range of readers who benefit from this accessible format.\nWe will walk through the research that shaped our production process and discuss where large-print books are currently selling\, both in libraries and the trade market. Participants will gain an understanding of key design specifications\, pricing structures\, and best practices for creating metadata that improves discoverability and supports library acquisition.\nAlthough this session is designed with publishers in mind—especially those exploring how to broaden their catalogs and increase library placement—individual authors will also find valuable\, practical guidance. We will cover how authors can independently produce high-quality large-print editions of their books through platforms such as IngramSpark or KDP\, ensuring these formats can be offered alongside standard editions.\nAttendees will leave with a clear sense of why large-print publishing is worth the investment\, along with the tools and knowledge needed to begin producing professional\, library-standard editions that meet reader needs and expand market reach.\n\nPlease note we had a technical hiccup with the audio recording for this session. We hope to post the full audio as soon as possible.
CATEGORIES:BREAKOUT SESSIONS + ASK THE EXPERTS
LOCATION:Hyatt Regency - Willamette 5 (2nd floor)\, Minneapolis\, MN\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:93fa490982eca2ca00fde4e435335c82
URL:http://pubu2026.sched.com/event/93fa490982eca2ca00fde4e435335c82
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260518T165521Z
DTSTART:20260515T220000Z
DTEND:20260515T230000Z
SUMMARY:Breakout 2 (Publishing 101) - AI-Powered Self-Editing
DESCRIPTION:AI-Powered Self-Editing: Align with Reader Expectations\, Cut Costs\, and Prepare for Market\n\nThe most expensive editing pass is the one that discovers your book isn't delivering on its core promise to the reader. What if you could diagnose and fix these "reader expectation gaps" before your manuscript ever reaches a human editor? This session offers a strategic\, cost-saving "pre-edit" process using AI. Join AI editing expert Erin Servais and IBPA award-winning author-publisher Linda Ruggeri for a practical\, business-focused workshop. They will demonstrate how to use AI as a predictive "beta reader" to analyze whether your book's structure\, pacing\, and clarity align with the specific expectations of your target reader. This session is designed to save you significant money by empowering you to fix big-picture problems yourself. Attendees will learn how to create an "AI Reader Persona" for their genre\, get actionable feedback on their manuscript's market alignment\, and ensure their book meets reader expectations from page one.\n\nThe audio file is attached. Transcript will be added in early June.
CATEGORIES:BREAKOUT SESSIONS + ASK THE EXPERTS
LOCATION:Hyatt Regency - Willamette 7 (2nd floor)\, Minneapolis\, MN\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:40aed95f1d4dc1eea68e1aee545eae5d
URL:http://pubu2026.sched.com/event/40aed95f1d4dc1eea68e1aee545eae5d
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260518T165521Z
DTSTART:20260515T220000Z
DTEND:20260515T230000Z
SUMMARY:Main Ballroom & Foyer (During Breakout Session 2) - Meet our Sponsors!
DESCRIPTION:Another option during Breakout 2 is that you can chat with our sponsors!
CATEGORIES:BREAKOUT SESSIONS + ASK THE EXPERTS
LOCATION:Hyatt Regency Portland\, Oregon Convention Center - Regency Ballroom & Foyer\, 375 NE Holladay St\, Portland\, OR 97232\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:c8535b898c1536b41db00d912ff9a0d1
URL:http://pubu2026.sched.com/event/c8535b898c1536b41db00d912ff9a0d1
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260518T165521Z
DTSTART:20260515T231500Z
DTEND:20260516T003000Z
SUMMARY:Friday Afternoon Keynote Panel - Reaching Readers Beyond Bookstores\, Libraries\, and Retail Markets
DESCRIPTION:As it becomes increasingly difficult to profitably sell books through traditional sales channels (including Amazon)\, more publishers and authors are exploring direct-to-consumer platforms\, emerging technologies\, and old-fashioned community building opportunities to reach readers. This panel will explore a variety of options for marketing and selling to readers outside of traditional trade channels.\n\nThe audio file is attached. Transcript will be added in early June.\n\n
CATEGORIES:PLENARY
LOCATION:Hyatt Regency - Regency Ballroom (2nd floor)\, Minneapolis\, MN\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:019e46aee027a0df3fa1af01beb7fcff
URL:http://pubu2026.sched.com/event/019e46aee027a0df3fa1af01beb7fcff
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260518T165521Z
DTSTART:20260516T000000Z
DTEND:20260516T020000Z
SUMMARY:Registration Opens for the IBPA Book Awards
DESCRIPTION:Come by registration from 5:00-7:00 pm to pick up your award ceremony name card with meal selection that you'll take into the ballroom and set by your plate once you're seated.\n\nPlease note that the Ballroom is open seating (unless the table has a reserved sign on it.)\n\nThanks\, and we look forward to seeing you!
CATEGORIES:
LOCATION:Hyatt Regency - Regency Ballroom Foyer (2nd floor)\, Minneapolis\, MN\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:3b6147fdf2c6fa333df80315b961893e
URL:http://pubu2026.sched.com/event/3b6147fdf2c6fa333df80315b961893e
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260518T165521Z
DTSTART:20260516T010000Z
DTEND:20260516T020000Z
SUMMARY:IBPA Book Awards Reception
DESCRIPTION:The 38th Annual IBPA Book Awards!\n6:00-7:00pm Cocktail Reception\n7:00-9:30pm Dinner and Ceremony\n9:30-10:30pm &nbsp\;Photos and After-Party
CATEGORIES:IBPA BOOK AWARDS
LOCATION:Hyatt Regency - Regency Ballroom Foyer (2nd floor)\, Minneapolis\, MN\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:9d459e522319c32c0545b2fab399e70c
URL:http://pubu2026.sched.com/event/9d459e522319c32c0545b2fab399e70c
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260518T165521Z
DTSTART:20260516T020000Z
DTEND:20260516T043000Z
SUMMARY:IBPA Book Awards Dinner and Ceremony
DESCRIPTION:The 38th Annual IBPA Book Awards!\n6:00-7:00pm Cocktail Reception\n7:00-9:30pm Dinner and Ceremony\n9:30-10:30pm Photos and After-Party\n\nFinalists and judges receive a free ticket. Email terry@ibpa-online.org to arrange that\, please. There is an additional fee to attend the dinner and ceremony.
CATEGORIES:IBPA BOOK AWARDS
LOCATION:Hyatt Regency - Regency Ballroom (2nd floor)\, Minneapolis\, MN\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:36d970cf3a5092cff9d562f5f0cb7634
URL:http://pubu2026.sched.com/event/36d970cf3a5092cff9d562f5f0cb7634
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260518T165521Z
DTSTART:20260516T043000Z
DTEND:20260516T053000Z
SUMMARY:IBPA Book Awards After-Party and Photos
DESCRIPTION:The 38th Annual IBPA Book Awards!\n6:00-7:00pm Cocktail Reception\n7:00-9:30pm Dinner and Ceremony\n9:30-10:30pm Photos and After-Party\n\nFinalists and judges receive a free ticket. Email terry@ibpa-online.org to arrange that\, please. There is an additional fee to attend the dinner and ceremony.
CATEGORIES:IBPA BOOK AWARDS
LOCATION:Hyatt Regency - Regency Ballroom Foyer (2nd floor)\, Minneapolis\, MN\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:81d477334b4559a3f5745abb39f8fc09
URL:http://pubu2026.sched.com/event/81d477334b4559a3f5745abb39f8fc09
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260518T165521Z
DTSTART:20260516T150000Z
DTEND:20260517T000000Z
SUMMARY:Exhibit Hall Hours (meet our sponsors!)
DESCRIPTION:Meet our sponsors in person!
CATEGORIES:
LOCATION:Hyatt Regency Portland\, Oregon Convention Center - Regency Ballroom & Foyer\, 375 NE Holladay St\, Portland\, OR 97232\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:72a645f09ddd161a37076009031febf3
URL:http://pubu2026.sched.com/event/72a645f09ddd161a37076009031febf3
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260518T165521Z
DTSTART:20260516T150000Z
DTEND:20260516T230000Z
SUMMARY:Saturday Registration Opens
DESCRIPTION:Come by registration from 8:00am-4:00pm on Saturday to get your badge and conference bag. You'll need to register and get your badge before attending any conference sessions.
CATEGORIES:
LOCATION:Hyatt Regency - Regency Ballroom Foyer (2nd floor)\, Minneapolis\, MN\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:d04a2e86cda194dd8eb69e50827b1dca
URL:http://pubu2026.sched.com/event/d04a2e86cda194dd8eb69e50827b1dca
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260518T165521Z
DTSTART:20260516T150000Z
DTEND:20260516T161500Z
SUMMARY:Breakfast\, Board Recognition\, and Intentional Membership
DESCRIPTION:Grab a yummy breakfast (included with your conference registration) and starting at 8:30am learn about IBPA's committees\, board\, and volunteer opportunities. We'll also thank our outgoing – and welcome our incoming – members of the IBPA Board of Directors.
CATEGORIES:COMMUNITY BUILDING
LOCATION:Hyatt Regency - Regency Ballroom (2nd floor)\, Minneapolis\, MN\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:f75d92726f9e3b12babccfd56361eab8
URL:http://pubu2026.sched.com/event/f75d92726f9e3b12babccfd56361eab8
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260518T165521Z
DTSTART:20260516T161500Z
DTEND:20260516T173000Z
SUMMARY:Saturday Morning Keynote: Matt Braly on Merging the worlds of Content Creation and Business: Lessons from Amphibia and Beyond
DESCRIPTION:Merging the Worlds of Content Creation and Business: Lessons from Amphibia and Beyond\n\n\nAs the creator\, writer\, and producer of the popular Disney show Amphibia (with projects in development at Sony & Netflix)\, Matt Braly wears two hats – as a content creator as well as a producer pushing projects toward green light. In this exclusive keynote for IBPA Publishing University attendees\, Matt will share his insights into how to:\n\n\nTranslate content creation into a viable business modelPitch your ideas to business folks who want to translate your vision to a bottom lineCultivate a fandom across mediaSurround yourself with the right team to support your vision\, andStay motivated to keep going when reality sets in.Ground yourself creativelyThe audio file is attached. Transcript will be added in early June.\n\n
CATEGORIES:PLENARY
LOCATION:Hyatt Regency - Regency Ballroom (2nd floor)\, Minneapolis\, MN\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:bc554e52e02eb2d2082795b9dc4dfc64
URL:http://pubu2026.sched.com/event/bc554e52e02eb2d2082795b9dc4dfc64
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260518T165521Z
DTSTART:20260516T174000Z
DTEND:20260516T191000Z
SUMMARY:Breakout 3 (Established Publishers) - The Ins and Outs of Effective Trade Sales
DESCRIPTION:Indie publishers love indie&nbsp\;—&nbsp\;and national — bookstores! But with more titles than ever competing for shelf space\, the challenge to get booksellers to discover\, champion\, and reorder your books is real. And how do you manage returns? This breakout session dives into the ins and outs of effective trade sales\, from positioning your titles for success with independent bookstores and national retailers to crafting compelling offers and merchandising strategies. We’ll explore how sales reps and retailers evaluate new titles\, how to partner more strategically with your distributor\, and how to align your pricing\, packaging\, and timing with the realities of the sales cycle . Expect a candid\, practical conversation packed with insights you can apply right away to strengthen your retail relationships and drive sell-through.\n\nThe Established Publisher breakout sessions are intended for independent publishers who have an established business and experience in the industry\, and are looking to successfully grow and scale their publishing company. (Generally you will have been in the publishing industry for at least four years\, and have published more than ten titles.)&nbsp\;Please note that if you are just starting out and you attend an Established Independent Publisher session you are auditing the class\, and we ask that you not take up session time with beginner-level questions.\n\nThe audio file is attached. Transcript will be added in early June.
CATEGORIES:BREAKOUT SESSIONS + ASK THE EXPERTS
LOCATION:Hyatt Regency - Willamette 3 (2nd floor)\, Minneapolis\, MN\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:066f8e9d5f83df6265452b641b05ff55
URL:http://pubu2026.sched.com/event/066f8e9d5f83df6265452b641b05ff55
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260518T165521Z
DTSTART:20260516T174000Z
DTEND:20260516T191000Z
SUMMARY:Breakout 3 (Hot Topics A) - Cover Design & Live Critique Panel
DESCRIPTION:Don’t judge a book by its cover is a nice saying\, but books get judged by their covers all the time—and it happens in an instant. Join this panel of experts to learn what covers say and how they can help you sell your books.&nbsp\;\n\nThe first 30 minutes of this session will be three TED-style talks by our faculty experts on book design\, covering genre expectations\, accessibility\, design trends (and whether you should pay attention to them)\, and more! &nbsp\;\n\nThe balance of the session (the next 60 minutes) will be a live critique panel by our experts\, JuLee Brand (Publisher\, W. Brand Publishing)\, Jeniffer Thompson (Creative Director\, Monkey C Media)\, and Damon Freeman (Founder and Creative Director\, Damonza). &nbsp\;\n\nIf you’re planning to attend this session\, you’re welcome submit no more than TWO cover designs for possible critique to our online form by May 4\, 2026: https://wkf.ms/4sQAbnq &nbsp\;\nYou may also bring physical books to the session\, but priority will be given to the covers submitted online.&nbsp\;\n\nThe audio file is attached. Transcript will be added in early June.
CATEGORIES:BREAKOUT SESSIONS + ASK THE EXPERTS
LOCATION:Hyatt Regency - Willamette 1 (2nd floor)\, Minneapolis\, MN\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:7e32a5a1874016a042e11c700d176cec
URL:http://pubu2026.sched.com/event/7e32a5a1874016a042e11c700d176cec
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260518T165521Z
DTSTART:20260516T174000Z
DTEND:20260516T191000Z
SUMMARY:Breakout 3 (Hot Topics B) - Protecting Your Rights
DESCRIPTION:In today’s rapidly evolving publishing landscape—shaped by AI\, new distribution models\, and shifting industry norms—understanding contracts isn’t optional. It’s essential.\n\nWhether you’re an author or an independent publisher\, this interactive session will equip you with the foundational knowledge you need to protect your intellectual property and confidently navigate agreements of all kinds. Our expert panel will break down the essentials of copyright and walk through the most common contracts you’re likely to encounter—from author and publisher agreements to distribution\, licensing\, and service provider contracts.\n\nDesigned for a wide range of experience levels and business models\, this session goes beyond theory. After a brief overview\, the conversation will turn to real-world questions and scenarios\, with ample time for audience Q&A.&nbsp\;\n\nYou’ll leave with a clearer understanding of how to craft agreements that safeguard your rights and practical strategies for negotiating terms that work in your favor.\n\n\nThe audio file is attached. Transcript will be added in early June.
CATEGORIES:BREAKOUT SESSIONS + ASK THE EXPERTS
LOCATION:Hyatt Regency - Willamette 5 (2nd floor)\, Minneapolis\, MN\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:2ebbbe58c85d87095bf1d645d72c2250
URL:http://pubu2026.sched.com/event/2ebbbe58c85d87095bf1d645d72c2250
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260518T165521Z
DTSTART:20260516T174000Z
DTEND:20260516T191000Z
SUMMARY:Breakout 3 (Publishing 101) - From Indie to Enterprise: Build Your 12-Month Operating Plan (That Actually Drives Profit)
DESCRIPTION:Independent presses can’t afford “wing-it” years. In this strategy lab\, I’ll walk you through building a one-page operating plan tied to revenue\, margin\, and cash flow. We’ll map a P&L-aware title mix\, set quarterly OKRs\, design a simple finance/KPI dashboard (AR/AP\, inventory turns\, returns\, CAC/LTV for direct)\, and adopt a monthly operating review cadence that moves the needle\, whether you’re just starting out or &nbsp\;just getting serious about profit. You’ll learn to translate vision into a measurable plan and budget\; forecast cash and scenario-plan\; pick a title portfolio that protects margin\; and align editorial\, marketing\, and sales around a 90-day sprint rhythm. You leave with: a completed one-page plan\, a KPI dashboard template\, and a monthly meeting agenda you can run immediately.\n\nPresented by Alesha Brown\, Founder & CEO of Fruition Publishing Concierge Services®\, an award-winning hybrid publisher\, and Editor-in-Chief of Published! Magazine™.\n\nThe audio file is attached. Transcript will be added in early June.
CATEGORIES:BREAKOUT SESSIONS + ASK THE EXPERTS
LOCATION:Hyatt Regency - Willamette 7 (2nd floor)\, Minneapolis\, MN\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:e1980e09e3398b6bf8dec3626c201fe7
URL:http://pubu2026.sched.com/event/e1980e09e3398b6bf8dec3626c201fe7
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260518T165521Z
DTSTART:20260516T174000Z
DTEND:20260516T191000Z
SUMMARY:Main Ballroom & Foyer (During Breakout Session 3) - Meet our Sponsors!
DESCRIPTION:Another option during Breakout 3 is that you can chat with our sponsors!
CATEGORIES:BREAKOUT SESSIONS + ASK THE EXPERTS
LOCATION:Hyatt Regency Portland\, Oregon Convention Center - Regency Ballroom & Foyer\, 375 NE Holladay St\, Portland\, OR 97232\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:52db2fae3a242043aca4152bb7630acd
URL:http://pubu2026.sched.com/event/52db2fae3a242043aca4152bb7630acd
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260518T165521Z
DTSTART:20260516T191500Z
DTEND:20260516T203000Z
SUMMARY:Lunch\, Ask the Experts\, and Meet Our Sponsors! (and Matt Braly Book Signing)
DESCRIPTION:Grab some food\, meet a few sponsors\, and connect with your community!\n\nAsk the Experts one-expert-with-one-attendee sessions will also happen at this time:\n(3) 1:00pm-1:15pm \; (4) 1:20-1:35pm\nSign up information to come.
CATEGORIES:COMMUNITY BUILDING
LOCATION:Hyatt Regency Portland\, Oregon Convention Center - Regency Ballroom & Foyer\, 375 NE Holladay St\, Portland\, OR 97232\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:1fd7511ee1b9ab486b909f45a583f9fa
URL:http://pubu2026.sched.com/event/1fd7511ee1b9ab486b909f45a583f9fa
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260518T165521Z
DTSTART:20260516T204000Z
DTEND:20260516T214000Z
SUMMARY:Breakout 4 (Hot Topics A) - Publishing Manga and Graphic Novels
DESCRIPTION:This breakout session will cover the following topics:Special considerations for publishing manga/graphic novels (production requirements\, marketing and distribution\, etc.)Creative production requirements related to content contributors (author\, illustrator\, inker and colorists\, editors\, etc.)Lesson for licensing and IP expansion that non-Manga/Graphic novel publishers can leverage for their respective publishing programs\, including&nbsp\;licensing pickups (localization of content) vs developing originals.The audio file is attached. Transcript will be added in early June.
CATEGORIES:BREAKOUT SESSIONS + ASK THE EXPERTS
LOCATION:Hyatt Regency - Willamette 1 (2nd floor)\, Minneapolis\, MN\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:e60828c56e316c32bb8c3dc0475e7648
URL:http://pubu2026.sched.com/event/e60828c56e316c32bb8c3dc0475e7648
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260518T165521Z
DTSTART:20260516T204000Z
DTEND:20260516T214000Z
SUMMARY:Breakout 4 (Hot Topics B) - Equity Innovations in Publishing (Yes\, Even Now)
DESCRIPTION:The environment for diverse books has grown hostile and sales to schools and libraries are down. But the audience for diverse books is larger than ever—and the need is greater than ever\, too. &nbsp\;\nHow can we innovate to advance equity across publishing – from who works in our industry to who and what gets published and promoted?&nbsp\;\nThis interactive session will start with brief presentations about: \n•The BLK Bestsellers list\, presented by Troy Johnson (President\, African American Literature Book Club) \n•The work to expand diverse BISAC codes\, in particular for books about Indigenous subjects and communities\, presented by Wiley Barnes (Director\, Chickasaw Press) \n•And a new grant program for independent publishers to help them publish children’s books with Jewish themes and characters. \nThe session attendees and our faculty will then engage in a group sharing and brainstorm about further innovations that currently exist and/or that we might create. &nbsp\;\nIBPA believes in the power of diverse books\, and in the importance of mission-driven independent publishers to publish those books so that every reader can find themselves—and learn about others—in the books they read.&nbsp\;\n\nThe audio file is attached. Transcript will be added in early June.\n\n
CATEGORIES:BREAKOUT SESSIONS + ASK THE EXPERTS
LOCATION:Hyatt Regency - Willamette 5 (2nd floor)\, Minneapolis\, MN\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:08b84dbbf9c558bedd4015569973eb76
URL:http://pubu2026.sched.com/event/08b84dbbf9c558bedd4015569973eb76
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260518T165521Z
DTSTART:20260516T204000Z
DTEND:20260516T214000Z
SUMMARY:Breakout 4 (Publishing 101) - Key Publishing Contract Clauses for New and Future Publishers
DESCRIPTION:Structuring royalty-based Publisher-Author agreements from a small press POV: Why new and future publishers should develop an in-depth understanding of contract clauses\n\nStrong contracts form the cornerstone of a publishing company looking to grow over the long term. In this session for new and future publishers\, we will walk participants through our experience of drafting our publishing contract\, with examples to demonstrate why contracts are a vital piece of a publisher’s work\, and what small presses should keep in mind when building out their own agreements. Our goal through this session is for attendees to gather a thorough understanding of key publishing contract clauses and their various implications\, including a contract checklist to use as a reference when working with their attorney. This is from the perspective of a small traditional children’s press with 30 books (picture\, middle grade\, and young adult) in their catalog.\n\nThe audio file is attached. Transcript will be added in early June.
CATEGORIES:BREAKOUT SESSIONS + ASK THE EXPERTS
LOCATION:Hyatt Regency - Willamette 7 (2nd floor)\, Minneapolis\, MN\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:7860aa56c049e53bf20cf57be6b43c79
URL:http://pubu2026.sched.com/event/7860aa56c049e53bf20cf57be6b43c79
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260518T165521Z
DTSTART:20260516T204000Z
DTEND:20260516T214000Z
SUMMARY:Main Ballroom & Foyer (During Breakout Session 4) - Meet our Sponsors!
DESCRIPTION:Another option during Breakout 4 is that you can chat with our sponsors!
CATEGORIES:BREAKOUT SESSIONS + ASK THE EXPERTS
LOCATION:Hyatt Regency Portland\, Oregon Convention Center - Regency Ballroom & Foyer\, 375 NE Holladay St\, Portland\, OR 97232\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:e081f9c29e6b1fa390127f3c3331f7a6
URL:http://pubu2026.sched.com/event/e081f9c29e6b1fa390127f3c3331f7a6
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260518T165521Z
DTSTART:20260516T214000Z
DTEND:20260516T222000Z
SUMMARY:Saturday Afternoon Ask-the-Experts\, Snack\, and Meet Our Sponsors!
DESCRIPTION:Grab a free snack\, chat with some of our conference sponsors\, and connect with your community!\n\nAsk the Experts one-expert-with-one-attendee sessions will also happen at this time:\n(5) 2:50-3:05pm \; (6) 3:10-3:25pm\nSign up information to come.
CATEGORIES:COMMUNITY BUILDING
LOCATION:Hyatt Regency Portland\, Oregon Convention Center - Regency Ballroom & Foyer\, 375 NE Holladay St\, Portland\, OR 97232\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:662f253f506f6f5e8413d83c082ec644
URL:http://pubu2026.sched.com/event/662f253f506f6f5e8413d83c082ec644
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260518T165521Z
DTSTART:20260516T223000Z
DTEND:20260516T233000Z
SUMMARY:Breakout 5 (Hot Topics A) - Reaching a Gen Z Audience
DESCRIPTION:Gen Z\, the first fully digital generation\, is surprisingly turning to analog experiences and physical books. New survey data from Immersive Media and Books 2025 reveals these digital natives seek physical materials to combat isolation\, build reader identities\, and discover content organically—often through library spaces.\nIn this session\, professors Kathi Inman Berens and Rachel Noorda explore this paradox and provide actionable strategies for publishers navigating Gen Z's unique reading behaviors.\n\nAttendees will learn:\nKey findings from the Immersive Media and Books 2025 survey on Gen Z reading preferences and discovery patterns\nWhy physical books and library spaces matter to digital natives\, and what this means for print and digital publishing strategies\nHow libraries function as critical discovery points in the Gen Z reader journey—and how publishers can leverage these touchpoints\nPractical strategies for reaching Gen Z readers through both physical and digital formats\nHow to build meaningful connections with Gen Z that convert library borrowers into book buyers\n\nWhat you'll gain:\nConcrete insights to inform your publishing strategy\, marketing approaches\, and format decisions when targeting the Gen Z market\, plus a deeper understanding of how this generation builds lasting relationships with books and authors.\n\nThe audio file is attached. Transcript will be added in early June.
CATEGORIES:BREAKOUT SESSIONS + ASK THE EXPERTS
LOCATION:Hyatt Regency - Willamette 1 (2nd floor)\, Minneapolis\, MN\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:7fb441a52164f87142812fb305f58c05
URL:http://pubu2026.sched.com/event/7fb441a52164f87142812fb305f58c05
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260518T165521Z
DTSTART:20260516T223000Z
DTEND:20260516T233000Z
SUMMARY:Breakout 5 (Hot Topics B) - Making the Most of Hurts\, Remainders\, and Returns
DESCRIPTION:If you're planning to attend\,&nbsp\;please take our brief pre-conference session survey here: https://wkf.ms/4lXen6K\n\nSometimes publishers have too much inventory on a title\, and warehousing is too expensive\, so they sell those titles at a high discount to specialized wholesalers (“remainders”). &nbsp\;\nSometimes publishers receive unsold titles back from bookstores (“returns”). Some of those may be slightly damaged (“hurts”).&nbsp\;\nA few options for what to do with those extra copies are scary (pulping/destroying.) Others are logistically complex (donating). And what about sustainability?&nbsp\;\nJoin our session faculty Elly Blue (Vice President\, Microcosm Publishing)\, Maria Dismondy (Publisher\, Cardinal Rule Press and Founder\, Making Spirits Bright) and Ben Tider (Chief Commercial Officer\, World of Books Group) for a pros-and-cons\, ins-and-outs exploration of how you can best navigate the most dignified end-of-title-life for your publishing program.&nbsp\;\n\nThe audio file is attached. Transcript will be added in early June.
CATEGORIES:BREAKOUT SESSIONS + ASK THE EXPERTS
LOCATION:Hyatt Regency - Willamette 5 (2nd floor)\, Minneapolis\, MN\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:1856059ec09c5d90d1c8f49b21369125
URL:http://pubu2026.sched.com/event/1856059ec09c5d90d1c8f49b21369125
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260518T165521Z
DTSTART:20260516T223000Z
DTEND:20260516T233000Z
SUMMARY:Breakout 5 (Publishing 101) - Booking International Author Events
DESCRIPTION:After successfully completing six international author events in Germany and Singapore\, author publisher (self-published author) Courtney Kelly will share her framework\, strategy\, and lessons learned from these experiences. During this interactive session\, attendees will walk away with the specific steps that she took to secure bookings at schools\, libraries\, and organizations abroad while minimizing cost and maximizing impact. Using this proven blueprint\, author publishers will be equipped with the tools to generate their own roadmap of how to plan\, implement\, and execute international event opportunities for their publications. Additionally\, she will provide insights from her visit to the 2024 Frankfurt Book Fair where she leveraged IBPA’s display options to showcase her books at the largest international book fair in the world.\n\nThe audio file is attached. Transcript will be added in early June.
CATEGORIES:BREAKOUT SESSIONS + ASK THE EXPERTS
LOCATION:Hyatt Regency - Willamette 7 (2nd floor)\, Minneapolis\, MN\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:34af7c86f73ebe6149f4402e6cc728a2
URL:http://pubu2026.sched.com/event/34af7c86f73ebe6149f4402e6cc728a2
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260518T165521Z
DTSTART:20260516T223000Z
DTEND:20260516T233000Z
SUMMARY:Main Ballroom & Foyer (During Breakout Session 5) - Meet our Sponsors!
DESCRIPTION:Another option during Breakout 5 is that you can chat with our sponsors!
CATEGORIES:BREAKOUT SESSIONS + ASK THE EXPERTS
LOCATION:Hyatt Regency Portland\, Oregon Convention Center - Regency Ballroom & Foyer\, 375 NE Holladay St\, Portland\, OR 97232\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:8dd8185831a0ad96dab959fce69000f0
URL:http://pubu2026.sched.com/event/8dd8185831a0ad96dab959fce69000f0
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260518T165521Z
DTSTART:20260516T234500Z
DTEND:20260517T003000Z
SUMMARY:Closing Session and Raffle
DESCRIPTION:Don't miss our closing session of raffle prizes and rapid-fire takeaways!\n\nAttend this session for your chance to win one of our great raffle prizes -- and we'll draw the winner of the Treasure Hunt (Visit all the conference sponsors to get a chance to win $500 IBPA credit plus a FREE pass to IBPA Publishing University 2027)!\n&nbsp\;
CATEGORIES:COMMUNITY BUILDING
LOCATION:Hyatt Regency - Regency Ballroom (2nd floor)\, Minneapolis\, MN\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:9a61ca0528783cdec078a8a2b1a6a6d3
URL:http://pubu2026.sched.com/event/9a61ca0528783cdec078a8a2b1a6a6d3
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTAMP:20260518T165521Z
DTSTART:20260517T003000Z
DTEND:20260517T004500Z
SUMMARY:Your Overall Conference Evaluation Here\, Please
DESCRIPTION:We'd love your feedback so we can make IBPA Publishing University 2027 even better! \n\nIf you'd like to share a testimonial to help us spread the word\, please include your name and company name so we can attribute.\n\nThank you for being part of our wonderful IBPA community\,\nThe IBPA Staff and Board\n\n\n
CATEGORIES:
LOCATION:Minneapolis\, MN\, USA
SEQUENCE:0
UID:b1a257c1a14b44ff709714bcbacfdfff
URL:http://pubu2026.sched.com/event/b1a257c1a14b44ff709714bcbacfdfff
END:VEVENT
END:VCALENDAR