IBEX 2026 Sees Attendance Growth, Strong Industry Engagement

The International BoatBuilders' Exhibition and Conference (IBEX) concluded its 2026 Show, October 6-8 in Tampa, with year-over-year increases in attendance and show-floor traffic, strong exhibitor feedback and positive response to expanded education and networking opportunities.

The three-day event welcomed more than 7,700 marine industry professionals from over 55 countries and featured 701 exhibitors, including 103 first-time exhibitors.

Highlights included an expanded Technical Seminar Conference, a new Main Stage and Tech Talks, and enhanced networking opportunities, including the debut of the Emerging Marine Leaders Lounge. Innovation remained a centerpiece of the Show, with the 2026 IBEX Innovation Awards recognizing 12 winners and three honorable mentions from 100 entries.

"IBEX is at its best when the industry comes together to share ideas, tackle challenges and move our businesses forward," said Mary Velline, IBEX Show Director. "That energy was evident throughout this year's show, from the conversations happening on the exhibit floor to the enthusiasm around our education programs and new opportunities to connect."

Looking ahead, IBEX returns to the Tampa Convention Center December 7-9, 2027, kicking off its new December schedule. The move will create opportunities for expanded outdoor demonstrations, hands-on learning and technical programming while reducing weather-related risks associated with hurricane season.

Read the full IBEX 2026 recap.