Top 10 Reasons You Need to Attend the 2026 Design-Build Conference & Expo

Design-build now represents nearly half of all U.S. construction spending and continues to grow across every market sector. Stay ahead of what’s next by connecting with the people, projects and ideas driving the industry’s evolution.

The Design-Build Conference & Expo is the nation’s only event dedicated exclusively to effective design-build project delivery and advancing Design-Build Done Right®. 

We’re headed to one of the Midwest’s best-kept secrets and one of its biggest advantages is value. Cleveland’s affordability makes it easier than ever to experience the industry’s premier event while stretching travel dollars further. Bring your whole team!

There’s no other place where Owners, architects, engineers, design-builders, general and specialty contractors, students and academia come together to exchange ideas, build relationships and shape the future of design-build.

Successful design-build begins with Owner readiness. Explore candid peer discussions in the exclusive Owners’ Forum, a General Session exploring why the best teams show up and what defines an “Owner of Choice,” and a new interactive Owner Readiness Assessment Tool in the DBIA Booth.

Go beyond the headlines with groundbreaking PDB research and real-world case studies exploring what happens when projects off-ramp and why an informed decision to stop can be the right outcome.

Dedicated Student and NextGen programming, including a new Creating the Future from the Future forum, explores how DBIA is helping prepare emerging professionals and how the industry can better support its next generation of leaders.

Turn up the volume at an exclusive Opening Party inside Cleveland’s iconic Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. This year’s host city gives attendees a one-of-a-kind experience with a soundtrack all its own. Separate ticket required.

Collect up to 14 Continuing Education Hours, with even more available through preconference programming. DBIA is an approved AIA provider, with select sessions eligible for Health, Safety and Welfare (HSW) credits.

Arrive early Nov. 3 for the returning Virtual Design & Construction Leadership Exchange or the Collaborative Delivery Leadership Academy Foundations Course. Separate registration and additional fees apply.