From Last Year to What’s Next: Expert Takeaways That Set the Stage for This Year’s AGA Pre-Show

If these quotes remind us of anything, it’s that our industry doesn’t stand still—and neither do we!

Taking these lessons into the new year isn't just about remembering where we’ve been; it’s about refining where we are going. The conversation that started at last year’s workshop is far from over—in fact, it’s about to get a lot more interesting! We are looking forward to see how these insights have matured into action, evolved into something unexpected, and continuing to grow all together.

Before we jump into the novelty of this year’s 2026 AGA Pre-Show Workshops, let us reflect on all that 2025 offered us.

Contributing a global perspective, Philippe Bossanne (inveterate camper, nature lover and the founder of Huttopia) shared how intentional decision-making early on laid the foundation for their worldwide growth in his presentation Smart Scaling: How Huttopia’s Early Decisions Paved the Way for Worldwide Growth.

“Speaking at the AGA pre-show and being part of The Glamping Show was a great opportunity for Huttopia to engage with a highly involved audience—we really valued the questions in-session, the interest, and the conversations it sparked throughout the event. It was also meaningful to share our brand journey and help inspire attendees developing their own projects to learn from brands that have scaled their model in this space.”

Ann-Tyler and Brian Konradi, founders of The Yurtopian, brought warmth and candor to their session: Navigating Loans & Lending: How Operators Secured Glamping Capital.

“Speaking at the AGA Pre-Show Workshops last year was such a great experience. We loved getting to interact with the audience—it made the whole thing feel more like a conversation than a presentation. It also gave us the chance to meet so many people who we never would’ve connected with otherwise, and we’re really glad we said "yes" to the ask!”

Raising capital continued with expertise from Live Oak Bank, where Moe Kruger, alongside colleague Nick Parker, delivered a session packed with practical insights: Expert Perspectives on Raising Capital for Glamping Start Ups. Their presence reinforced what many operators already know: having access to experienced, glamping-specific lenders is game-changing.

“Nick Parker and I have spoken at The Glamping Show for the past two years, and the energy—especially at the AGA Pre-Show Speaker Series—is unmatched. We were blown away by the audience's engagement, enthusiasm, and innovative thinking. The caliber of the show is top-notch and a must-attend for anyone currently in or considering entering the glamping business.”

We then zoomed out to the bigger entrepreneurial picture with entrepreneur, conservationist, investor, author, and speaker Sarah Dusek, whose delivered an insightful and inspirational session: Glamping Entrepreneurship: Building, Scaling, and Succeeding in the Glamping Industry. Her words captured what makes the AGA gathering unique: it’s not just an event, it’s an ecosystem.

“The AGA Pre-Show Speaker Series is an incredible place to meet experts, practitioners, advisers, and meet a community of people who are passionate about the same things you are. Business deals get done, learning happens, connections are made and the movement continues. This is the event of the year if you are involved in the Glamping industry in some way!”

Tyler Watts, co-owner of Broad River Campground, grounded the conversation in day-to-day operational realities. He reminded the audience that success lies in mastering the overlooked details: The Evolution of Outdoor Stays: Merging Traditional Camping with Glamping for Long-Term Success. He spoke to how the conversations sparked in his session continued throughout the show—and even long after.

“The AGA Pre-Show Workshop sessions are a must for anyone in the Glamping Industry! The focus was on developing a Glamping Resort and all the valuable details that are typically overlooked. The AGA Pre-Show Workshop session not only allowed me to broadcast our resort but also elaborated on what it takes to build, operate, and manage this business. The crowd was interactive and the conversations lasted the rest of the show. I still receive phone calls today! Overall impact was highly successful for me and the attendees. AGA Pre-Show Workshops are designed to dig into the details of the business and highlight details that will make you highly successful!”

As we look ahead to the 2026 AGA Pre-Show Workshops, these reflections remind us of what makes this gathering so special.

It’s not just the education—it’s the connection, the generosity, and the shared commitment to building an industry that thrives. Whether you’re launching your first project, expanding your portfolio, or shaping the future of outdoor hospitality, the conversations happening in these rooms matter. We can’t wait to welcome you back, continue the dialogue, and build another unforgettable year together.