Are you planning an event during the School Nutrition Association’s (SNA) 2026 Annual National Conference (ANC)? We're here to help you make it a success!
- Seek SNA's Assistance To ensure a seamless and enjoyable conference experience for all attendees, SNA's approval is required for all events, even those hosted at unofficial venues, such as hotels in the SNA block, as well as hotels outside the block, or special venues. We're dedicated to upholding the quality of every ANC-related gathering.
- Affiliation for Enhanced Networking: Events organized independently from ANC fall under the category of affiliate events. These gatherings offer exceptional opportunities for industry peers to come together, connect, and engage in fruitful networking.
- Unleash the Power of Collaboration: We understand the significance of having numerous members convened in one place. Therefore, SNA wants to support our corporate/industry members, allied partners and government agency partners in hosting meetings and events throughout the conference. ANC is all about fostering collaboration and knowledge exchange.
- Streamlined Planning for In-Conjunction-With (ICW) Events: If you're considering an In-Conjunction-With Event where you will assume 100% responsibility for logistics and planning.
- Are you looking for space in the Charlotte Convention Center or Westin Charlotte (HQ hotel) to hold a meeting, focus group, lunch, small reception, or serve as an onsite office for your team? If so, please see the Private Exhibitor Meeting Room Application instead. Private Exhibitor Meeting Space Application
Streamlined Event Guidelines and Fees for Your Convenience
When it comes to your event requests, understanding the guidelines and fees is essential. We've categorized them for your convenience:
Affiliate/ICW (In Conjunction With) Events
- Hospitality Suites: Organized and financially supported by corporate/industry groups and government agencies, these suites are ideal for social gatherings.Securing a hospitality suite must be done through the hotel.
- Education/Social/Networking Events: Whether it's a learning opportunity, reception, dinner, or any social affair, these events are sponsored and financially supported by corporate/industry groups and government agencies.
Administrative Fees: Please note that there is a non-refundable administrative fee for each approved application. Refer to the fee schedule on the last page for detailed information. Government agency-sponsored events, however, are exempt from this administrative fee. We're committed to making your event planning process as straightforward as possible, ensuring your event aligns with our guidelines. Let's work together to create remarkable gatherings that leave a lasting impact.
Timetable Restrictions and Approvals
The schedule for the ANC26 has been thoughtfully designed to ensure that attendees can fully engage with the conference's exhibit floor and educational program. As a result, the availability and timing of affiliate events are subject to some limitations. To provide clarity, the following are the avaliable times to hold a gathering or event:
Friday July 10: Unrestricted
Saturday July 11: No timeslots avaliable
Sunday July 12: 6:00am-8:00am; After 5:30pm
Monday July 13: 6:00am-8:00am; After5:30pm
Tuesday July14: 6:00am-8:00am; After 5:00pm
All restricted times are reserved for SNA programs, meetings, and functions. SNA is protective of its attendees’ time, energy and attention and strongly objects to third party initiatives scheduled outside of established guidelines.
Corporate Industry/Exhibitor Staff Meetings are permitted during restricted hours ONLY if they do not involve attendees other than company staff members. We encourage our exhibitors to attend education sessions and General Sessions, and the Closing Event.
Reserving a Space:
- All affiliate event applications must be submitted by June 15, 2026, and will be reviewed in adherence to our outlined guidelines.
- An administrative fee is applicable to each approved application, with space confirmation, approval, or release contingent on the receipt of this fee. Please note that this fee will be waived for government agencies.
- Meeting coordinators are not authorized to reserve meeting rooms directly through the convention center or SNA-contracted hotels until their event has received approval.
- Space is limited and will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.
- To submit your affiliate event application, kindly email our Meeting Planner at meetings@schoolnutrition.org
Alternate Venues: For those considering offsite event hosting in Charlotte, we are committed to ensuring a seamless planning process. Reach out to our Meeting Planner at meetings@schoolnutrition.org, with your needs and completed application. SNA will connect you with our dedicated local Convention & Visitors Bureau contact to provide personalized assistance in finding the right location for your event and/or help facilitate connecting you with the appropriate people to plan your event.
Transportation: SNA approval is required for bus staging. Organizations providing transportation to and from the convention center, participating hotels, and event venues must contact SNA by June 15, 2026. We are happy to connect you with our busing partner for a transportation quote.
Marketing Activities:
Onsite marketing collateral materials for affiliate events are limited to the sponsor's exhibit booth (if applicable) and one sign outside the assigned room just before the event starts. Promoting the event in other areas of the convention centers or hotels within the SNA block is only permitted with prior approval from SNA.
Trademark Usage: The names, logos, and acronyms of ANC26 are exclusive property of SNA and may not be used without express written permission. The approved terminology for use is "while attending ANC26." Any other phrasing is not acceptable.
Disclaimer: All printed materials promoting the affiliate event (including emails and online publications) must prominently and legibly feature the statement: "This is not an official function/event of the School Nutrition Association." We appreciate your cooperation in adhering to these guidelines.
Additional Benefits:
SNA offers some additional benefits for those planning to host ICW events at ANC26. We believe that by enhancing your experience, we can collectively take your event to new heights. Here's what's in store for you:
- Amplified Visibility: SNA will make space available on our ANC website for your event listings. What's more, if you are interested, your event details will be featured in our event app, reaching a wider audience, and generating buzz for your event. We're committed to promoting your event on your behalf! We realize that you might not want your event promoted if it is invite-only. SNA will not promote anything unless you reach out to us to specifically request it.
- Access to Exclusive Discounts: In our efforts to support you, we're excited to assist you in connecting with the right people in Charlotte. This way, you can tap into any special discounts that may be extended to SNA and its partners. It's all about helping you make the most of your event experience.
- Strengthening Our Collective Impact: By gaining insights into SNA's overall expenditure in a city, along with our partners, we are positioning ourselves to secure better deals for everyone. Negotiated room rates, rental fees, and more can be optimized to benefit all of us.
- Earn a Priority Point: Your company will receive one priority point for each approved event. Priority points determine the order of booth selection for the following year.
Your Commitment Matters:
Adherence to SNA Rules and Regulations: All affiliates organizing events are expected to comply with SNA's rules and regulations. It's not just about you; it's about upholding the integrity of our community.
Consequences of Violations: Violations of SNA rules and regulations can have repercussions, potentially impacting future exhibiting status and affiliate event requests. Let's work together to ensure a successful and seamless experience for all.
Event Approval Required: Regardless of whether you need space from an SNA venue, approval is mandatory for all affiliate events. Please review the approved event start times before submitting your request. To facilitate this process, we've outlined an administrative fee schedule below:
SNA Administrative Fees Schedule:
| Recieved on or before May 15, 2026 |
Recieved after May 15, 2026 |
| $100.00 |
$200.00 |
It's important to note that space at the convention center and hotels is limited. Submitting a request for space does not guarantee approval or placement, so make sure to act promptly.
We're thrilled to provide you with these enhanced opportunities and services. Don't miss out on making your ICW event an even greater success this year. Submit your application today and let's embark on this journey together.
Join us in making ANC26 unforgettable!