For Immediate Release:

December 2, 2025

Contact: MemberSupport@dealer.org

202-367-1169

WASHINGTON D.C. – The National Lumber and Building Material Dealers Association (NLBMDA) is excited to announce the launch of Dealers to D.C., a new grant program designed to strengthen NLBMDA’s advocacy efforts through expanding dealer participation at NLBMDA’s annual Spring Meeting and Legislative Conference. 

While many factors can influence someone’s decision to attend a legislative fly-in, Dealers to D.C. is intended to eliminate financial barriers that may restrict attendance at NLBMDA’s signature advocacy event. Approved by the NLBMDA Board of Directors, Dealers to D.C. offers financial support to help bring lumber and building material (LBM) dealers to Washington, D.C., particularly those who have not recently attended or who operate in states that are typically underrepresented. By expanding dealer involvement, Dealers to D.C. strengthens NLBMDA’s advocacy efforts by ensuring a wider range of perspectives is represented on Capitol Hill.

Approved by the NLBMDA Board of Directors at its recent meeting, Dealers to D.C. provides financial assistance to help bring lumber and building material (LBM) dealers to Washington, D.C., particularly those who have not recently attended the fly-in or operate in states not typically represented. The program aims to ensure a broader range of dealer voices are heard on Capitol Hill as NLBMDA continues to advance federal policies that support the lumber and building materials industry.

For 2026, Dealers to D.C. will provide ten $750 advocacy grants to cover eligible expenses such as conference registration, hotel accommodations within NLBMDA’s room block, and travel to Washington, D.C. Preference will be given to NLBMDA members who have not attended the Legislative Conference within the past three years or those facing financial constraints that would otherwise limit future participation.

Matthew Delaney, Government Affairs Coordinator at NLBMDA:

“As a Washington, D.C.-based trade association, we’re fortunate that lawmakers, the administration, and key stakeholders shaping decisions that impact the lumber and building materials industry are right in our backyard. When I meet with lawmakers and staff throughout the year, they often mention the conversations they’ve had with our members during NLBMDA’s fly-ins. Those interactions leave a lasting impression. While I’m on Capitol Hill each week advancing the industry’s priorities, it’s our dealers’ yearly presence in Washington  that truly make our advocacy resonate through the halls of Congress.” 

Chris Hegemen, of Bliffert Lumber and NLBMDA Board of Directors BLD Connection Representative:

“The NLBMDA Legislative Conference and Hill meetings are some of the most impactful advocacy efforts we engage in as an association. Speaking directly with my representatives at the Capitol has been one of the most meaningful experiences of my 20+ years in LBM. I encourage every member to take part in this important event. When we show up together, our collective voice is stronger. Let’s make sure our industry is heard in Washington.”

Applications for the Dealers to D.C. program open today, with a priority deadline of December 19 and final submissions due January 5. Award recipients will be announced in the month of January, ahead of NLBMDA’s Spring Meeting and Legislative Conference, held March 17–18, 2026, in Washington, D.C.



First Time Attending a Legislative Fly-In?

First-time fly-in attendees often face the dual challenge of setting aside time from their businesses and navigating an unfamiliar environment meeting with lawmakers and staff on high-stakes issues impact the industry. NLBMDA offers first-time and recurring attendees with comprehensive advocacy training including a briefing on the key legislative issues affecting the lumber and building materials industry at the federal level and best practices on how to conduct productive and effective meetings with legislative offices and staff.

NLBMDA staff will be available before and during the conference to offer support, answer questions, and support attendees navigate the schedule, ensuring every dealer can confidently engage in advocacy efforts that strengthen the industry’s voice in Washington.

Learn More and Apply

For more information or to apply for the Dealers to D.C. program, visit www.dealer.org

About NLBMDA

The National Lumber and Building Material Dealers Association (NLBMDA) is the recognized voice and resource of the Lumber and Building Material industry to federal legislators and regulatory agencies in Washington DC. NLBMDA provides its members the resources and education to comply with federal laws, codes and regulations. NLBMDA identifies challenges and growth opportunities to the industry and collaborates with its Federated Association Partners to develop solutions that require national implementation. Visit us at www.Dealer.org to learn more.