If you’ve been to the NAHB International Builders’ Show® (IBS) before, you already know it’s where the residential construction industry comes to learn, connect and see what’s new and what’s next. But, IBS 2026 brings a lineup of firsts, fresh formats and new experiences that even longtime attendees haven’t seen before. From hands-on tech education to a reimagined show floor, here’s what’s new and why this year’s show is worth a spot on your calendar.
A New Way to Learn Tech: The AI & Tech Studio
One of the biggest additions to IBS 2026 is the debut of the AI & Tech Studio, a brand-new part of IBS Education, designed specifically for residential construction professionals.
These sessions go beyond theory and buzzwords. Instead, they focus on real-world applications of technology you can actually use in your business today. Topics span AI for business operations, design, sales and project management, along with practical tools like CRMs, estimating software, BIM and 3D modeling, virtual tours and more.
What makes the AI & Tech Studio different is the format. These sessions are built around discovering, doing, comparing and testing. Expect hands-on demos, builder-led case studies and interactive presentations that show technology in action. There’s no hype here, just proven ways to build a smarter tech stack, streamline operations and level up your business.
The Theme of IBS 2026: “All Homes Start Here”
The overall theme for IBS 2026 is “All Homes Start Here.” It’s a simple phrase that captures the scope and impact of the Builders’ Show.
As the premier industry event for residential construction, IBS brings together more than 70,000 professionals each year. Builders, remodelers, designers, developers and other industry pros come to discover new products, learn the latest trends and connect with experts and peers from across the industry.
From education and networking to suppliers, manufacturers and partners, everything you need to grow your career and strengthen your business can be found at the Builders’ Show. No matter your role or specialty, all homes truly do start here.
New & Expanded Experiences on the Show Floor
IBS 2026 also introduces several new elements on the exhibit floor, including specialty zones that Orlando attendees haven’t experienced before.
Construction Performance Zone & Craft Techniques Zone
For the first time at an Orlando Builders’ Show, attendees will see both the Construction Performance Zone and the Craft Techniques Zone.
The Construction Performance Zone focuses on high performance building, featuring expert-led demos (like Travis Brungardt) of advanced products and techniques that improve efficiency, durability and performance.
The Craft Techniques Zone highlights the details that finish a home. These demos dive into the skills, materials and methods that elevate craftsmanship and set quality projects apart.
A Segmented Show Floor
IBS 2026 is also the first Orlando show to feature a segmented exhibit floor. Exhibitors are grouped into six distinct product and service categories, making it easier for attendees to navigate the show, find what they’re looking for and compare solutions side by side.
Attendees can expect hundreds of new exhibitors and an incredible number of new products debuting across the floor.
Education Topics with Serious Momentum
While IBS Education is always evolving, AI and technology clearly lead the conversation in 2026. There’s an AI and tech surge throughout the entire show, not just in the AI & Tech Studio.
You’ll find these topics woven into Building Knowledge Sessions, Centrals programs and specialty zones like the Home Technology Zone, New Product Zone and Start-Up Zone, where emerging home tech products and services take center stage.
Orlando vs. Las Vegas: What’s Different?
Whether the show is in Orlando or Las Vegas, IBS delivers the same premier experience, just in a different setting.
What makes the 2026 Builders’ Show unique is that several education formats and zones that debuted in Las Vegas at IBS 2023 are coming to Orlando for the first time. For many attendees, this is their first chance to experience these newer formats without traveling to Vegas.
Why 2026 is the Year to Come Back
If you haven’t attended the Builders’ Show in a few years, IBS 2026 is a standout year to return.
It’s the final show in Orlando before IBS moves permanently to Las Vegas. For builders and industry professionals in the Southeast, this is the last time the show will be close to home.
The show also features hundreds of new products and exhibitors and about 70 percent of IBS Education content is brand new. On top of that, two education formats are appearing in Orlando for the first time.
Game Changers New Format
In the Game Changers sessions, business experts Kelley Earnhardt Miller, Jon Tanner and Lee Thomas Miller are paired with industry professionals like Alaina Money-Garman and Gene Myers. Together, they explore innovative strategies and approaches shaping the building industry, blending business insight with real-world building experience.
Super Sessions Hit Orlando for the First Time
Super Sessions take some of IBS’s most popular topics and turn them into larger-than-life education experiences. Attendees dive into annual trends in home sales and marketing, customer experience and attainable housing. These sessions also feature economic and housing forecasts from leading economists Robert Dietz, Danielle Hale and Ali Wolf.
The Bottom Line
IBS 2026 isn’t just another Builders’ Show. It’s a year packed with firsts, new ways to learn and the last chance to experience the Builders’ Show in Orlando. Whether you’re coming for the tech, the products, the education or the connections, one thing is clear: All Homes Start Here.
Register for IBS 2026
Don’t miss your chance to experience what’s new and exciting at the Builders’ Show. Join tens of thousands of residential construction professionals in Orlando to explore cutting-edge products, hands-on education and powerful connections that move your business forward. Register for IBS 2026 and be part of where all homes start.