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NCA Convention FAQ


Please read NCA Convention Policies for information related to the code of conduct, personal data usage, privacy, and more.


What is the NCA Convention? 

The NCA Convention is the premiere networking event for coffee executives and industry leaders from across the supply chain. Approximately 800 people are expected to attend, and the Convention is designed to facilitate business meetings, partnership development, and relationship building. The Convention includes multiple networking events at no additional cost, with food and entertainment included. Sessions explore macro-level topics like consumer trends, industry innovations, economic forecasts, and regulatory issues.  


Who attends the NCA Convention? 

85% of prior Convention attendees were presidents/chief executive officers, vice presidents, directors, or managers representing companies from across the coffee supply chain, including roasters, manufacturers, traders, importers, exporters, logistics providers, suppliers, and more. The NCA Convention continues to outshine other industry events by providing the highest level of networking. The individual attendee list is available exclusively to registered attendees. 


What makes the NCA Convention different from other events? 

The NCA Convention is not an expo or trade show. Instead, the event is focused on business networking with companies and suppliers from across the global coffee supply chain.


Why do executives prioritize this event? 

Executives value the opportunity to meet with current and future business partners as the NCA Convention brings together hundreds of decision-makers under one roof. Educational breakout sessions are geared to what's top of mind for business leaders with sessions on consumer trends, industry innovations, economic forecasts, and regulatory issues.

Is there a first-timer orientation? 

While there is no formal orientation for first-timers, Networking Kickstart: Maximizing Convention and Membership on Thursday is especially useful for first-time attendees and new members.  

Will I meet suppliers? 

Yes, suppliers including packaging, equipment, extracts and flavoring companies account for the bulk of exhibitors and make up about 17% of attendees. 


What's included with my registration?

All registered attendees have access to educational breakout sessions, workshops, tabletop exhibitor area, Networking Kickstarts, Welcome Session and NCDT Preview, Welcome Reception, General Sessions, NCA Awards Luncheon, Closing Reception, Farewell Networking Lunch, networking breakfasts and coffee breaks, and the Java Lounge. View the program for details.

Meals and Entertainment

Registered attendees also receive two continental breakfasts, two lunches, two dinner buffets with open bar and live entertainment, coffee service, and refreshments (included in programs listed above).

Add-On Events

The following Coffee Gives Back events may be added to your registration at an additional cost:

  • Day of Service - $35
  • International Women's Coffee Alliance (IWCA) Breakfast - $150


Do NCA members receive discounted registration?

Yes, NCA members can save up to $730 per person on Convention registration.


When does the Early Bird rate expire?

The Early Bird rate expires on December 10, 2026. Please note that registration rates increase on December 11, and again the week of the event. 

 

Do you offer a one-day pass?

We do not offer a one-day pass to attend a select day of the Convention.

 

What is the cancellation policy?

Cancellations must be received in writing by Thursday, January 21, 2027, to qualify for a refund. A $150 administration fee will be deducted. Replacements are always welcome. Badge sharing is prohibited. Please read our Convention policies.

 

What if I have a food allergy or other medical concerns?

Please note your allergy in your registration. If you missed this initially, you can return to the process and amend your registration. You can also contact us for assistance.

 

Where should I stay?

We encourage you to book at the Convention hotel to stay close to the action, maximize networking opportunities, and take advantage of the discounted rate. 


How do I access the Convention app? 

The 2027 NCA Convention app will be available to download in the App Store and Google Play. The app serves as your onsite program. Please download the app before arriving onsite.


How do I access the attendee list? 

To protect our attendees from third-party companies, the attendee list is only available to registered attendees. The list will be available online, and you will need to log into the account you used to register for the Convention. 

How do I add tickets to my existing registration? 

Certain events such as Day of Service and the IWCA Breakfast are ticketed and require pre-registration. If you didn't add these ticketed events to your initial registration, you can return to the registration form, click "Next", select the item(s) you want to add, and then proceed to the shopping cart to check out. 

I registered for an off-site event. What do I need to know? 

If you are registered for one of the following off-site events, please check back for important information related to checking in, what to bring, and what to wear. 
  • Coffee Gives Back Day of Service 

What is the dress code? 

The NCA Convention is a business casual event. Keep in mind that you'll be moving around between meetings and sessions. We recommend comfortable shoes and layers to accommodate conference room climate control. 

How do I get my badge? 

Pick up your badge at the Registration Desk (location TBA) during the following hours: 
  • Thursday, March 4: 8:00 AM–6:30 PM
  • Friday, March 5: 7:30 AM–6:00 PM
Day of Service Participants: You do not need to get your badge to check into Day of Service, but you will need your ID. You can pick up your badge when you return from Day of Service. 

How can I access presentations and photos from the NCA Convention? 

Attendees will receive an email with links to the photo gallery and presentations a couple weeks after the Convention.