Calling all founders, disruptors, and problem-solvers! This year, the Tech Pitch Competition brings a major upgrade: Finalists will pitch live on the AAHOACON trade show floor, giving your company high-impact visibility right where the industry's biggest conversations are happening.

To qualify, applicants must reserve their AAHOACON26 booth by the application deadline. All eligible participants will compete for a chance to win a free booth for AAHOACON27 and gain standout exposure in front of hotel owners and industry leaders. Ready to take the stage? The deadline to apply is February 1.

AAHOA mourns the passing of a true pioneer and AAHOA founding member and past chairman, Ravi C. Patel (1992-93).

As an "architect" of AAHOA, Ravi’s vision helped transform the association from a formative idea into a global force. A former chemical engineer and the Chairman of SREE Hotels, his journey from Fiji to building a 30-hotel portfolio remains a powerful testament to the American Dream.

AAHOA and Kalibri are hosting two virtual sessions with Jennifer Hill, SVP of Commercial Strategy at Kalibri, exploring hotel performance trends and market data.

Profit First in 2026: What the Data Shows & What Owners Can Do Next

Tuesday, February 10, 2 p.m. EST | Register here.

Make Smarter Hotel Investment Decisions, Powered by Data

Tuesday, March 3, 2 p.m. EST | Register here.

Both sessions focus on market and performance trends relevant to hotel owners in 2026.

Running a hotel is demanding. Building community makes it sustainable. That’s why Rajiv Satyal’s keynote speech at AAHOACON26 matters.

From performing on all seven continents to opening for legends like Dave Chappelle and Jerry Seinfeld, Rajiv brings humor that resonates – especially with diverse owner communities like ours. Expect laughter, reflection, and a reminder of why connection and belonging matter just as much as performance.

Get ready for the HYPE! Join us February 19-20 at the Sonesta Miami Airport for the 2026 AAHOA HYPE Conference – bringing together the energy, ambition, and innovation of young hospitality professionals from across the country. Designed to elevate, educate, and empower, HYPE is where the next generation of leaders comes to sharpen their skills, build meaningful relationships, and accelerate their journey in the industry.

Why You Need to Be There:

• Inspiring speakers, including keynote speaker Raul Leal, CEO of Starwood Hotels, and high-impact sessions
• Real-world strategies you can apply immediately
• A powerful network of peers and industry champions
• The electric energy of Miami as your conference backdrop

And the best part? Annual and Lifetime Members register FREE – just log in and secure your spot! The cost for non-members is only $199!

Every hotelier has a story worth celebrating – the mentor, the advocate, the community builder, the one who never gives up. Who comes to mind when you think of true hospitality leadership? Nominate them for a 2026 AAHOA Award and help us shine a spotlight on their story. Winners will be announced at AAHOACON26 in Philadelphia.

Deadline: February 7

Passionate about hospitality? Ready to lead? AAHOA is now accepting nominations for the 2026–2027 Board of Directors!

If you're an energetic, motivated member who wants to help shape the future of America’s hotel owners, this is your moment. We’re looking for leaders who can connect, inspire, and champion the industry. Nominations are open through February 8.

If you want to make a difference for AAHOA Members and the hospitality community, we encourage you to apply to serve on an AAHOA committee. Eligible applicants are AAHOA Members in good standing. Ensure your membership is up to date by joining or renewing today at MyAAHOA.com. The deadline to apply is April 10 at 11:59 p.m. EDT.

Applicants are encouraged to review each committee's job description and applicant prerequisites in AAHOA's Governance Policy, pages 14-24, to ensure you meet all prerequisites.

AAHOACON26 is bringing the energy to Philadelphia with standout entertainment celebrating culture, creativity, and connection – alongside more than 6,000 hotel owners and industry leaders.

Wednesday, April 8 | Welcome Reception

Kick off the week with high-energy beats from Desi Junction DJs, North America’s premier DJ company.

Thursday, April 9 | Stars, Stripes & Liberty Nights

Philadelphia’s own Penn Masala – the world's first South Asian a cappella group – takes the stage for a bold, patriotic celebration.

Friday, April 10 | AAHOACON26 Gala

The week culminates with Gala entertainment Shankar–Ehsaan–Loy, India’s award-winning composer trio behind legendary soundtracks including Dil Chahta Hai, Kal Ho Naa Ho, Rock On!!, and Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara.