ppai events
Legislative Education and Action Day
PPAI’s Legislative Education and Action Day connects industry professionals with lawmakers and their staff on Capitol Hill. This legislative fly-in event enables volunteers to advocate for the promotional industry in face-to-face meetings in Washington.
At the forefront of LEAD’s agenda is the crucial task of informing legislators and their staff about the significant impact of the promo industry and the undeniable effectiveness of promotional products, as well as the challenges faced by the thousands of businesses in our industry, which represents a nearly $27 billion market in the United States and employs roughly half a million Americans. Of the industry’s 45,000+ companies in the U.S., more than 98% are considered small businesses.
Washington, D.C.
April 20-21
Speakers
Abby Burke
National Account Executive at Walker-Clay, Inc.
Abby Burke
Abby Burke is a National Account Executive at Walker-Clay, Inc. (distributor) and one of PPAI’s 2025 Rising Stars. She has been twice named to the #Online18 and featured in “Coolest Stuff in Promo: People” (2024). Passionate about social media, Abby is part of TikTok’s official Creator Incubator Program and the YouTube Creator Community as a verified channel. Never one for cookie-cutter sales strategies, she leverages AI to enhance sales, streamline processes, and drive smarter client connections.
Abigail Posner
Former Director Of Creative Works, Google
Agenda
Please note that this is a preliminary schedule and is subject to change. Times may adjust slightly. Watch for marketing emails and announcements for the latest updates.
Monday
March 27, 2026
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FAQs
LEAD is open to PPAI member professionals across the promotional products industry — suppliers, distributors, and decorators alike. No prior advocacy or political experience is required; pre-meeting briefings and talking points are provided so first-time attendees can participate with confidence.
The event runs April 20–21, 2026, in Washington, D.C. Day one focuses on issue briefings and advocacy training so attendees walk into meetings prepared. Day two is dedicated to face-to-face meetings with members of Congress and their staff in their Capitol Hill offices.
Applications close on February 15, 2026. We recommend applying early — space is limited, and meeting slots with Congressional offices are confirmed on a first-come, first-served basis.
Participants cover their own travel and hotel arrangements. PPAI will share a list of recommended hotels near Capitol Hill closer to the event date. The participation fee covers the LEAD program materials, advocacy briefings, and the coordination of all Capitol Hill meetings.
Business professional attire is required for all Capitol Hill meetings. We strongly recommend comfortable dress shoes — there is significant walking between Congressional office buildings, often through underground tunnels and security checkpoints.
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