top of page
NETWORK AND COMPETE WITH DECA'S BEST MEMBERS
HIGH SCHOOL CONFERENCES
HIGH SCHOOL CONFERENCES
Experience the Next Big Thing with Indiana DECA Conferences
Joining DECA is just the beginning-what comes next is where it all happens. Indiana DECA's conferences are designed to push you forward, giving you the chance to explore, compete, and grow through experiences that shape the Next Big Thing in your journey.
From discovering future careers at leadership events to preparing for competition at the Fall Leadership Conference, to taking the stage at State Career Development Conference, each experience builds the skills, confidence, and connections you need to stand out.
Throughout the year, you'll engage with innovative workshops, real-world business insights, and a network of driven members across the state-all while developing the mindset to lead what's next.
Explore our conferences and opportunities below to see where Indiana DECA can take you.
EMERGING LEADER SUMMIT
DECA leaders will engage in an array of educational programs to empower them to lead the upcoming year. There are plenty of opportunities to collaborate, network, achieve, excel and grow
DECA leaders will step into the Next Big Thing at the Emerging Leader Summit-an immersive, high-energy experience designed to prepare them to lead with confidence in the year ahead. Through dynamic workshops, hands-on activities, and collaborative sessions, participants will develop the skills needed to innovate, connect, and make a lasting impact.
As part of the DECA Emerging Leader Series, this three-day summit brings together association officers, chapter leaders, and aspiring leaders to grow through real-world experiences and meaningful connections. Whether participating in the Elevate Track for emerging chapter leaders of the Empower Track for association officers, attendees will engage in interactive learning, team-based challenges, and strategic discussions that push them beyond their comfort zones. This is where leadership is strengthened, ideas come to life, and the next generation of DECA leaders become the Next Big Thing.
July 12th - July 15th, 2027 | Arlington, Virginia
IN HIGH SCHOOL FALL LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE
Step into the Next Big Thing at the Indianapolis Zoo
Get ready to discover what's next. Join over 200 Indiana High School DECA members in an immersive, hands-on experience at the Indianapolis Zoo, where business meets wildlife in the most innovative ways. Through a series of interactive stations, you'll explore the next big thing in zoo business operations-covering everything from marketing and finance to sustainability and guest experience.
Rotate through engaging stations designed to give you real-world insight into how each department powers the zoo. Learn how creative campaigns drive attendence, how budgets are built and managed, and how operations teams create unforgettable guest experiences-all while supporting a mission bigger than business.
This experience is built for future leaders who are ready to think differently, solve real challenges, and become part of what's next in IN DECA.
September 16, 2026 | Indianapolis Zoo - Indianapolis
THE ULTIMATE DECA POWER TRIP
Embark on a quest that will awaken your thirst for knowledge in this powerful city
Embark on an unforgettable leadership experience at the Ultimate DECA Power Trip, where members are challenged to grow as competitors, leaders, and innovators. Through interactive workshops, role-play practice, and engaging sessions, attendees build real-world skills while exploring future career opportunities in a fast-paced, hands-on environment.
From connecting with exhibitors to participating in leadership labs and dynamic speaker sessions, this conference brings learning to life beyond the classroom. Set in a city rich with history and opportunity, members gain new perspectives, form meaningful connections, and leave inspired to take the next step in their DECA journey.
November 20th - 22nd, 2026 | Louisville, Kentucky
SPORTS AND ENTERTAINMENT MARKETING CONFERENCE
When it comes to learning from the professionals in these popular industries, this conference cannot be rivaled
At the Sports and Entertainment Marketing Conference, DECA members step into the Next Big Thing by learning directly from industry professionals in one of the most exciting career fields. Through engaging sessions, real-world insights, and networking opportunities, participants gain a behind-the-scenes look at sports and entertainment while building the skills to stand out as future leaders. Set in a dynamic environment, this conference transforms learning into experience-preparing attendees to lead, innovate, and become aspiring leaders.
From exploring career pathways to connecting with like minded leaders, attendees are immersed in an experience that goes beyond the classroom. Whether it's hearing from industry experts or applying new ideas in real time, this conference inspires members to think bigger, act bolder, and take the next step toward becoming the future of sports and entertainment marketing.
January 27th - January 31st, 2027 | Orlando, Florida
IN HIGH SCHOOL STATE CAREER DEVELOPMENT CONFERENCE
Step into the Next Big Thing in Competition
Get ready to compete, connect, and discover what's next. The Indiana DECA State Career Development Conference brings together over 2,500 members from across the state for an unforgettable experience centered around leadership, innovation, and the Next Big Thing in business.
Over three days downtown Indianapolis, you'll put your skills to the test in DECA's competitive events program-going head-to-head with the state's best as you strive to earn your place on the international stage. But competition is just the beginning.
Experience the Next Big Thing through powerful general sessions, hands-on workshops, and networking opportunities with driven members and industry professionals. Between events, connect with chapters from across Indiana, explore new ideas, and be part of shaping the future of DECA.
Whether you're competing, leading, or learning, this is your moment to take the next step and become part of what's next. Compete Boldly. Lead Fearlessly. Be the Next Big Thing.
February 26th - February 28th, 2027 | Indianapolis, Indiana
More Information About the IN SCDC Coming Soon
HS INTERNATIONAL CAREER DEVELOPMENT CONFERENCE
The DECA International Career Development Conference (ICDC) is the culmination of the DECA year
The DECA International Career Development Conference (ICDC) is the ultimate stage where members step into what's next-bringing together top performers from around the world to compete, connect, and showcase their skills. With more than 23,000 students, advisors, business professionals, and alumni in attendance, this high-energy experiences celebrates innovation, leadership, and the future of business.
Through DECA's industry-validated Competitive Events Program, participants apply real-world knowledge in marketing, finance, hospitality, and management while demonstrating true college and career readiness. Qualifying for ICDC reflects excellence and dedication, and with industry professionals serving as judges, members gain meaningful feedback, build connections, and leave inspired to lead what comes next.
April 17th - 20th, 2027 | Anaheim, California
bottom of page