Publicity Speed Dating 2026

Nothing compares to time spent face-to-face with an events manager or store owner, passionately telling a publicist about their store events program and finding the perfect fit for authors. In fast-paced (15 minutes per appointment) meetings (up to 24 in just this one day) booksellers and publicists can find the perfect spots for authors. 

Booksellers: There is a nominal $35 fee to attend. Open only to current NAIBA members, we have space for 25 stores - a store can bring up to 2 staffers; each will need their own ticket.

Publicists: This is a free event for you. You are welcome to attend for the full day (our preference) or split an assigned table between publicists / imprints or double up for greater impact. Publicists must represent touring authors, as our focus is on setting up event partnerships, not sales. Register and choose either a full day, morning, or afternoon slot. Registration deadline is 2/20/26

Publishers: We do feature three authors (one at breakfast and two at lunch). Contact Eileen Dengler (Eileen@naiba.com) if interested.

Travel Grants Are Available for Bookstores!

NAIBA would like all our members to have access to the in-person Publicity Speed Dating, and we understand that travel, store coverage, and associated expenses can make it feel prohibitive. NAIBA is granting $500 each to four member stores to help cover those expenses. The four winning stores will be notified by mid-February so they can make plans to attend our March 12, 2026 event at the Gotham Comedy Club in New York City.

• A current NAIBA member
• Employed at a store that is five years old or younger (opened 2021 - 2026)
• From a store not previously represented at an in-person publicity speed dating event

Apply Here. The deadline is February 1st, 2026