Author: Kevin Wieging
As IOA continues to grow through a network of operators located across the world, new programs are being added and IOA Connect serves as an opportunity to allow members and the industry to collaborate. To advance those opportunities, IAAPA provides an opportunity to host the first event at the upcoming IAAPA Expo taking place in Orlando, FL November 16-19, 2026.
The first IOA Connect will be hosted on the opening day of IAAPA Tuesday November 17, 2026 from 7-11 pm. The location will be Tom’s Watch Bar – Sky Bar conveniently located on International Drive minutes from the IAAPA convention and Sponsored by ERS amusement rental software, Magic Jump, Hullaballoo Sales, and Cutting Edge Creations. The connect event host also includes BestLyfe group. Opportunities are still available and attendees are guaranteed the best “Pre-Game” experience at a conference event.
IOA Connect events are designed to allow members and inflatable industry affiliates to network together while developing relationships to take the inflatable industry where it deserves to be. Connect focus is an approach of social networking, safety focused program, and developing business success! Toms Watch Bar – Sky Bar is a location that allows for the social member based, member focused, and member driven mission of IOA can continue to thrive.
ERS, Magic Jump, Hullaballoo Sales, and Cutting Edge Creations are all provided with VIP invite opportunities and existing members of IOA are guaranteed VIP opportunity and will receive their FREE opportunity to participate through registering to attend. What can be expected is a “Pre-Game” experience to the IOA Conference being held February 1-4, 2027in Lebanon, TN (Nashville)! This event is education packed with
ERSCon, IO University, WIN Workshop for HR and entrepreneurial development by BestLyfe group, as well as the Edu/ Safety opportunities presented by IOA. (*Certified IOA Members save up to 10% on Insurance coverage.) In the third year, this is a demonstration on the continued development of industry leading education and business success!
IOA Ambassador Program Launched! Prior to IOA Connect, the ongoing development of the Member Based Ambassador program is announced and open to interested members willing to help the continued growth of the Inflatable Operators Association as a professional organization. As an ambassador, growth continues from within to help shape the future of the industry as a leadership initiative. Being a leader does deserve compensation, but the program rewards members monthly but isn’t about just dropping links to sell something for personal gain. Ambassadors are the connectors, advocates, and growth-minded professionals who believe that professionalism, safety, and education should define the future of this industry. When you join, you become part of a movement — helping serious operators access better education, stronger networks, and the resources they need to build lasting businesses.
Register To Attend IOA Connect at IAAPA!
SAVE the DATE!! Tuesday November 17, 7 pm – 11 pm by contacting an event sponsor or IOA for a registration link available soon! If you are planning to attend IAAPA, the event is a FREE Social event with some special industry announcements. Not to mention the Epic Fireworks display at 9 pm from Tom’s Sky Bar Balcony—you’ll be high above International drive in this awesome sports bar theme venue! Registration will be required but invites can be IOA members or guests to attend through VIP, Ambassador, or industry affiliate credentials.
Inflatable Industry Take-Over Event!
Gain early access through VIP invitation or plan to attend as a guest. VIP and Ambassador access begins at 7 pm. Invite and VIP qualify for FREE food and beverages (drink tokens) along with cash bar available. Sponsors involved promise an epic event supported by IOA. By registering you will also have the opportunity to download the FREE IOA App prior to IOA Inflatable Safety & Amusement Expo to build your networking group of valuable contacts as a mentor group for success!
Timeline:
7:00 pm- VIP, Ambassador and IOA Member early access to IOA Connect event
(Elevated Mezzanine VIP Area remain throughout the night)
7:00 pm- Bar Service Available
7:30 pm- Quick Ambassador and VIP Welcome/ DJ Entertainment
7:30 pm- Food Available (Food available in VIP and main level food stations
8:00 pm- Inflatable Industry Affiliates (non-member) general admission open
8:30 pm- Welcome and Prize giveaways #1
9:00 pm- Epic Fireworks show
9:30 pm- Food Service Ends
10:00 pm- Thank you and prize giveaways #2
10:00 pm- Extend DJ/ Bar Service Continues
11:00 pm- “Pre-Game” party for IAAPA and IOA Expo concludes
*Final schedule subject to change.
Be sure to rep your area NFL, CFL, MLB, MLS, NHL, NBA, WNBA or local sports teams with a jersey or athletic fit!! Arizona, California, Colorado, Texas, Ohio, Oklahoma, Michigan, New York, Toronto, Winnipeg and sports fans & inflatable industry businesses converge on Florida. A true collaboration to include all fans involved with the inflatable industry.
Meet with the inflatable industry on TUESDAY November 17, 2026 7-11 pm at Tom’s Watch Bar- Sky Bar 8050 International Drive, Orlando, FL.
