February always feels like a sprint. Trade show season is in full swing; calendars are packed and many of us are logging miles between booths, ballrooms and back-to-back meetings. It’s one of my favorite times of year because the energy is high, conversations are productive and new ideas are everywhere.
As you’re out and about this month, I’d encourage you to do one simple thing: spread the word about POMA. Invite someone to join. Introduce a brand to our network. Share why this community matters to you. Our organization grows strongest when our members are its best ambassadors.
I’m pleased to share that sponsorship opportunities are now available for the 2026 POMA Summit, scheduled for May 26-28 at Wild Wings of Oneka in Hugo, Minnesota.
The Summit brings together outdoor communicators, media professionals and industry leaders for collaboration, education and meaningful relationship building in support of responsible outdoor storytelling and conservation-focused engagement. Writers, photographers, videographers, podcasters and digital creators from across the country gather to connect, test products and strengthen partnerships. Located just 45 minutes from Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport, Wild Wings of Oneka offers an accessible and engaging setting for authentic interaction between media and brands.
Organizations interested in participating will find a range of sponsorship options designed to provide visibility, engagement and collaboration opportunities. Diamond sponsorships offer premier recognition and participation features, including promotional exposure, speaking opportunities, exhibit space and attendee access. Additional Gold, Silver and Bronze levels provide scaled options that maintain strong brand presence and interaction with participants. Details regarding benefits, inclusions and investment levels are available within the linked sponsorship materials.
In addition to formal sponsorship tiers, we welcome contributions to the Summit’s live and silent auctions. Gear, guided experiences, firearms, travel opportunities and professional services help support POMA’s initiatives while introducing products and services to a highly targeted audience of outdoor media professionals.
Don’t forget to send in your submissions for the Pinnacle Awards! POMA’s Pinnacle Awards are the highest honor in outdoor communication - recognizing excellence in outdoor journalism, photography, broadcasting, magazine production and content creation across traditional and emerging media platforms. The awards are given during a ceremony at the Summit. The deadline to submit your work is February 28.
I’m also excited to announce that applications are now open for the POMA ICAST Expedition, sponsored by the American Sportfishing Association. This exclusive opportunity pairs ICAST attendance with a guided fishing trip at the conclusion of the show week. Two outdoor writers, podcasters or influencers will be selected. Applications are due March 31.
Opportunities like this are exactly why POMA exists – to create meaningful access for our members and to strengthen relationships across the outdoor industry.
Thank you for your continued commitment to POMA and to responsible, impactful outdoor storytelling.
Britney Booth
President, POMA