Northstar Meetings Group has announced that the Independent Planner Education Conference, the leading conference produced exclusively for independent planners not associated with third-party organizations, will be held Feb. 4-6, 2026, at the Gila River Resorts & Casinos – Wild Horse Pass, in Chandler, Ariz.
"For independent planners, IPEC offers a unique chance to explore new venues and destinations, engage in peer-to-peer learning in a collaborative, noncompetitive environment, and gain education tailored to you as a business owner and entrepreneur," said Shalise DeMott, senior vice president for Northstar. "For our supplier partners, no other event delivers this level of access to a highly targeted audience with significant buying power, all in one place."
All qualified buyers will be fully hosted by Northstar Meetings Group for two productive days of prescheduled meetings with key suppliers from across the United States, as well as insightful educational presentations from inspiring speakers and numerous networking opportunities with other independent planners.
The 446-room Gila River Resorts & Casino – Wild Horse Pass, less than 20 minutes from Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, features eight restaurants and offers golf at the neighboring 36-hole Whirlwind Golf Club. Also on site is the Aji Spa, with a focus on Native American treatments, and several pools.
"We're thrilled to host IPEC at Gila River Resorts & Casinos – Wild Horse Pass. This will be a true showcase of our destination, and attendees will experience why we're Arizona's number one choice not only for gaming and entertainment, but also for meetings, events and hospitality," said Jennifer Klassen, sales manager for the property. "Independent planners from across the country will have the opportunity to expand their networks; witness sunset from Prime, our rooftop steakhouse; catch a show; or enjoy golf and a spa treatment in the beauty of the Sonoran Desert."
To register your interest, visit the IPEC page. Please check out the full calendar of Northstar's upcoming hosted-buyer events here.
