Event Overview
This isn’t your typical conference—it’s where education, creativity, and community come together in Scottsdale’s own urban paradise. As the signature annual event of MPI Arizona, EDUCON 2026 brings together planners, suppliers, hospitality professionals, and industry leaders for a weekend designed to inspire fresh thinking, meaningful connections, and professional growth.
Grounded in MPI Arizona’s pillars of Credibility, Community, and Vision, every experience is designed to help you grow your career, strengthen your network, and navigate what’s next in our evolving industry.
And when the learning ends, the celebration begins. Join us Saturday evening for Havana Nights in White, our signature closing celebration where EDUCON attendees and members of the broader hospitality and events community will come together for an unforgettable evening of connection, culture, and fun.
You'll leave with practical insights, valuable relationships, and renewed energy—ready to turn inspiration into action.
Hosted at The Scott Resort & Spa, you'll experience engaging CE-eligible education, innovative ideas, collaborative discussions, and intentional networking—all inspired by the resort’s vibrant tropical-meets-desert atmosphere.
HAVANA NIGHTS CLOSING PARTY
On Saturday evening, attendees will gather for Havana Nights, EDUCON's signature celebration of community, connection, and culture. Included with every EDUCON registration, this lively networking event will replace MPI Arizona's traditional annual gala, offering a more relaxed and engaging atmosphere to connect with colleagues, industry partners, and friends.
Additional tickets are now available for guests and members of the hospitality community who wish to join the celebration. CLICK HERE to learn more and register!
Interested in Sponsoring the Havana Nights Party? Contact Director of Special Events, Matt Petersen!
Why should a planner attend EDUCON?
EDUCON 2026 is designed to help meeting and event professionals stay ahead in a rapidly evolving industry. Gain practical strategies, earn CE credits, discover new trends, and learn from thought leaders who understand the challenges planners face every day. You'll leave with fresh ideas, actionable takeaways, and valuable connections that can help elevate your events, your organization, and your career.
Why should a supplier attend EDUCON?
EDUCON 2026 offers suppliers a unique opportunity to build meaningful relationships with planners and industry peers in an environment focused on learning and collaboration—not just selling. Showcase your expertise, stay informed on emerging industry trends, expand your professional network, and strengthen your visibility within Arizona's meetings and events community. The connections you make here can lead to partnerships that extend far beyond the weekend.
Additional Information
Continuing Education
EDUCON 2026 attendees can earn a minimum of 7 CE credits through the conference's educational programming. Additional details regarding accreditation and session eligibility will be available prior to the event.
CMP Bootcamp
Looking to advance your professional credentials? A CMP Bootcamp will be offered on Friday, August 21, prior to the start of the EDUCON general program. This intensive workshop is designed to support professionals pursuing the Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) designation. Registration for the CMP Bootcamp is not included with EDUCON and must be purchased separately.
EXECUTIVE HEADSHOT SESSIONS:
Flash Gordon is back with his signature FULL SERVICE HEADSHOTS at a big discount to you and a donation to MPI. He will be offering the Executive Headshot Sessions on Saturday morning!
Quick and painless 2-minute/12-shot sessions include:
- white or gray backdrop
- expert posing tips with onsite review
- subtle AI retouching ("10 years and 10 pounds...")
- private direct-to-cell delivery with full usage rights
Sessions are $49 scheduled in advance, and $59 onsite (as available). Credit card payments accepted with a $10/session donation to MPI.
COMMUNITY OUTREACH PROJECT: Ryan House
Ryan House Wish ListAt MPI Arizona, community is one of our core pillars, and EDUCON 2026 provides an opportunity to make a meaningful impact beyond our industry. This year, we are proud to support Ryan House, a nonprofit organization that provides respite, palliative, and hospice care to children with life-limiting medical conditions and their families.
Throughout the conference, attendees are invited to participate in our Community Outreach Initiative by donating much-needed items from Ryan House's Wish List. These everyday essentials help Ryan House continue providing compassionate care and support to the children and families they serve.
We encourage all attendees to bring an item—or several—to help us make a difference together. A collection area will be available throughout the conference, and additional information about requested items can be found through the Ryan House Wish List.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
Registration will close on August 17th.
Walk-in registration is not available for this event.
Hotel rooms can be booked on the "Host Venue" for $144 plus tax per night, inclusive of the resort fee. Booking closes 7/28/26.
All EDUCON attendees are representing MPI-AZ, and we require that all members and their guests be respectful to all speakers, sponsors, property hosts, and other guests.
ATTIRE: Business Casual.
PARKING: On-site self-parking is free. Valet and Overnight Self-Parking are free for registered guests.
Please retain your confirmation number and proof of all registration emails.