Exhibiting at the NAHB International Builders’ Show® (IBS) is a big investment and a huge opportunity. To help you get the most out of IBS 2026, we’ve rounded up several tools (many of them free!) that can help your company shine before, during and after the show. Don’t miss these chances to stand out, build brand awareness and drive more traffic to your booth.
#1 Start in the Exhibitor Portal
Think of the IBS Exhibitor Portal as your control center. It’s where you’ll find critical deadlines, promotional tools and tasks to complete. Bookmark the page and check back often because it’s updated throughout the year. It also offers two more ways to promote your company.
Two important tasks to complete now:
Exhibit Guide Listing (Deadline: October 20)
This ensures your company appears correctly in the Official Show Guide (print) and the Online Exhibitor Search. Log in to update your company info and product categories.
Online Company Profile
Attendees research exhibitors online before they set foot on the show floor. Use your profile to showcase your company description, product images, videos, literature and more. The earlier you upload, the more exposure you’ll get (and you can update any time).
Need help with the Portal? Contact the Exhibitor Service Department at 202-266-8109 or ExpoSales@nahb.org.
#2 Go for the Best of IBS™ Awards (Deadline: November 21)
The Best of IBS Awards spotlight the most innovative products and services in the building industry. Winners receive recognition at the show and marketing buzz long after it ends. Plus, one product earns the ultimate prize: Best in Show.
If you have a standout product, this is your chance to put it in the spotlight.
#3 Get Featured on IBS Social Media
Want your product in front of thousands of attendees before the show even starts? IBS 2026 Exhibitors can request a social media spotlight to show off a new product or service.
The IBS marketing team selects products to spotlight, so be sure to follow the guidelines on the submission form.
#4 Secure a Spot in the New Product Zone
Hundreds of products debut at IBS each year, but only 85 make it into the New Product Zone — one of the most buzzed-about areas on the show floor. If you’ve got something new and exciting, this is the place to show it off. Space is limited, so don’t delay. View application details.
#5 Explore Sponsorships & Advertising Opportunities
Exhibitors who invest in IBS promotional opportunities see big results. In 2025, those who did averaged 210% more leads than those who didn’t.
The IBS 2026 Sponsorship & Advertising Online Media Kit is now live, with options for every budget. Whether you want to boost visibility on-site, online or across IBS channels, our team can help you find the right fit.
For questions, contact Lynn Margiotta at lmargiotta@nahb.org or 202-266-8685.
Maximize Your IBS Experience
Your booth is only one part of your IBS presence. By taking advantage of these exhibitor opportunities, you can amplify your reach, generate more buzz and ensure a stronger return on your IBS investment.
Questions? Reach out to our Exhibitor Service Department at 202-266-8109 or ExpoSales@nahb.org.
Interested in meeting developers, investors, potential buyers, Potential CEO’s to work with and develop small development.
These tips are fantastic for maximizing visibility at IBS 2026