
IDT Expo 2026
The Future of Business Growth Starts Here
October 15 – Houston, TX
Investment. Data. Technology.

Upcoming Event
IDT EXPO is back and relaunching with a renewed focus on what drives modern business growth: Investment, Data, and Technology.
On October 15, 2026, entrepreneurs, investors, business leaders, and innovators will gather for a high-impact event built around meaningful networking and practical business education. The new IDT EXPO is designed to connect people with opportunities, ideas, and relationships that can help accelerate growth and open new doors.
This year’s program features keynote speaker Magi Graziano of Keen Alignment, along with sessions covering sales, marketing, start-up growth, Mergers & Aquisition activities, finance, and business development. Attendees will also hear from leaders connected to Texas A&M University and participate in panel discussions focused on investment strategy, leadership, and emerging opportunities. Featured speaker Joe Paulo of Hope Media Group and KSBJ will also share insights on leadership, communication, influence, and leading with a purpose in today’s rapidly changing marketplace.
The relaunch of IDT EXPO reflects a belief that the future belongs to those who can connect capital, information, and innovation in purposeful ways. In a world increasingly shaped by technology and data, IDT EXPO exists to bring people together, spark conversations, and help attendees discover not only what is, but what could be.

Program Overview
The schedule features a full day of high-impact speakers, networking, and expert-led panels spanning investment, data, technology, AI, leadership, marketing, finance, and business growth.
Through keynotes and interactive discussions with experienced business leaders, IDT EXPO aims to spark meaningful conversations about what’s next.

IDT EXPO 2026 Schedule
Event date:
October 15, 2026
7:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Click to view event location on map:
This one-day experience is organized into four curated event blocks, each highlighting a different area of business growth.
Block 1
Industry Transformation
Exploring the forces reshaping traditional industries through innovation, data, and emerging technologies that are redefining how modern businesses operate.
| 7:30—8:00 AM | Check-in |
| 8:00—8:15 AM | Welcome Dr. Chris Alexander |
| 8:15—9:00 AM | Keynote Speaker Magi Graziano Keen Alignment |
| 9:00—9:15 AM | Joe Paulo CEO, Hope Media Group |
| 9:15—9:30 AM | Levi Belnap Texas A&M University |
| 9:30—9:45 AM | Tony Rizk Natural Gas Revolution |
| 9:45—10:05 AM | PANEL |
| 10:05—10:30 AM | Morning Break |
Block 2
Transformational Connections
A lineup of short, high-impact talks from founders and operators sharing real-world insights on sales, marketing, CRM systems, and business growth.
| 10:30—10:45 AM | Tommy Precht Company “Sales” |
| 10:45—11:00 AM | Travis Dean BYB Advisors “Power of the CRM” |
| 11:00—11:15 AM | Sarah Etier Company “Marketing” |
| 11:15—11:30 AM | Michael Slabic Company “Networking” |
| 11:30—11:45 AM | Ben Stroman Company “Building Conferences” |
| 11:45 AM—12:05 PM | PANEL |
| 12:05—12:50 PM | Lunch Break |
Block 3
Start-ups, Scaling & Technology
Focused discussions on building, scaling, and funding modern businesses, including the role of technology, AI, and digital systems in accelerating growth.
| 12:50—1:05 PM | Tyler Cowie Narrowstack “Data and AI” |
| 1:05—1:20 PM | Dr. Simon Bellemare Company “Building a Start-up” |
| 1:20—1:35 PM | Cale Kobza Company “Scaling a Company” |
| 1:35—1:50 PM | Sami Abboud Company “M&A Activities” |
| 1:50—2:05 PM | ? |
| 2:05—2:25 PM | PANEL |
Block 4
Panel Sessions
Expert-led panels featuring industry leaders and practitioners sharing insights on investment strategy, leadership, innovation, and the future of business.
| 2:25—2:50 PM | PANEL: Real Estate and Construction Shane Boatman Brian Burk Nathan Gaines Clay Roper |
| 2:50—3:15 PM | PANEL: Banking, Investment, and Finance Adrian Cadena Trent Halsell Mike Novelli |
| 3:15—3:40 PM | PANEL: Business & Technology Innovation Guests of Tyler Cowie |
| 3:40—3:55 PM | Closing Comments / Wrap-up Dr. Chris Alexander |
| 3:55—5:00 PM | Exhibitor Time |

Secure your place at IDT Expo
Join leaders, investors, and innovators at a curated business environment built for meaningful connections and real opportunity.
Date:
October 15, 2026
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