Houston, Texas | May 15–18, 2027
Create the NPC27 You Want to See
Are you passionate about shaping the future of planning? Do you have insights and ideas to share on pressing topics? We invite you to submit your proposal to become a speaker at NPC27.
We are seeking engaging and thought-provoking sessions that delve into the complexities of climate change, housing, technology, and navigating the political landscape. If you have groundbreaking research, innovative solutions, or inspiring case studies related to these areas, we encourage you to submit your proposal.
Submitting a proposal for the National Planning Conference offers you the exciting opportunity to present your insights and expertise either in person in Detroit or at our online conference.
Submit a session proposal or sign up to review proposals: August 26, 5 p.m. CT
Submit a mobile workshop proposal: September 23, 5 p.m. CT
Important Dates to Know
| Proposal submission preparation | July 15–August 5, 2026 |
| Session proposal submission and reviewer portal open | August 5–26, 2026 |
| Mobile workshop proposal submission portal open | August 5–September 23, 2026 |
| Proposals Peer review | September 9–September 23, 2026 |
| Program curation | September–December 2026 |
| Notification of session acceptance | February 2027 |
| Registration opens | February 2027 |
Submission Guidelines
You must be an APA member to submit an education session, a mobile workshop, or to volunteer as a peer reviewer; however, non-members are welcome to present or serve as guides within a proposal. We encourage you to gather a diverse group of experts to create a dynamic presentation.
If your session or mobile workshop is accepted, you will receive a discount on the conference registration for the conference where you'll be presenting.
Proposals are welcome in various formats, including presentations, panel discussions, workshops, and interactive sessions.
Ensure your proposal aligns with at least one of the following focus areas:
- Climate Change, Energy, and the Environment
- Economic Development
- Housing
- Navigating the Political Landscape
- Social Change
- Technology
- Career and the Workplace
- Transportation and Infrastructure
How to Submit
You're invited to contribute to NPC27 by choosing one, two, or all three options — submitting an Education Session, proposing a Mobile Workshop, or applying to be a Volunteer Reviewer. We're excited to review your submission and showcase your expertise!
Using our identified list of the top drivers of change and key disruptors affecting the planning profession and the communities we serve, propose a session that addresses and responds to the evolving needs of planners.
We need you to help us build an outstanding NPC program! Unique perspectives and diverse, new voices are key to building a representative program. Become a proposal reviewer to evaluate and select the sessions.
Mobile workshops offer a unique, hands-on opportunity for attendees to explore completed or in-progress planning projects by visiting key locations across the host city and surrounding region, gaining real-world insights.
Resources
Peer Review Volunteer Opportunity
Guide to Submitting a Strong Proposal
For any inquiries or further information, please contact education@planning.org.