American Orthotic & Prosthetic Association - AOPA 2026

    Premier annual trade show and scientific conference for orthotic, prosthetic, and pedorthic professionals featuring technical workshops, education, networking, and product exhibits.

    Dates

    9–12 Sep 2026

    City / country

    Las Vegas, United States

    Venue

    Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino

    Time

    AOPA 2026 National Assembly runs Wednesday, September 9, 2026 through Saturday, September 12, 2026, featuring daily technical education sessions, breakout tracks, general sessions, and exhibit hall hours at Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino

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    Event overview

    Overview

    The AOPA National Assembly is the premier annual gathering for orthotic, prosthetic, and pedorthic professionals, offering high-level scientific education, clinical research presentations, professional networking, and an expansive exhibit hall showcasing cutting-edge O&P components, CAD/CAM technology, 3D printing solutions, and patient care systems.

    TL;DR

    1. 1Premier annual assembly for orthotic, prosthetic, and pedorthic professionals in North America.
    2. 2Hosted at Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino in Las Vegas, NV, September 9-12, 2026.
    3. 3Features 4 days of clinical and business education, manufacturer workshops, and continuing education credits (CEUs).
    4. 4Features an expansive exhibit hall displaying the latest O&P technology, 3D scanning/printing, and componentry.

    Why visit

    Attending AOPA 2026 allows orthotic and prosthetic clinicians, technicians, and business leaders to earn mandatory CEUs, discover breakthrough O&P technologies, attend hands-on manufacturer workshops, and network with leading clinical researchers and industry peers.

    Why exhibit

    Exhibiting at AOPA 2026 connects companies directly with key decision-makers, O&P practice owners, clinical practitioners, facility managers, and rehabilitation specialists actively sourcing advanced prosthetic components, orthotic bracing, CAD/CAM fabrication machinery, practice management software, and patient care materials.

    Attendees, exhibitors & solutions

    Who this event is for

    Visitor profile

    Typical attendee groups you can expect to meet.

    Certified Prosthetists and Orthotists (CPOs)
    O&P patient care facility owners and managers
    Pedorthists and orthotic technicians
    Rehabilitation specialists and physical therapists
    O&P residents, students, and academic researchers

    Exhibitor profile

    Main supplier and exhibitor segments present at the show.

    Prosthetic and orthotic component manufacturers
    O&P raw material and central fabrication suppliers
    3D printing, scanning, and CAD/CAM technology developers
    Practice management and electronic health record (EHR) software vendors
    Pedorthic and therapeutic footwear suppliers

    Product categories

    Key solution areas showcased across the event.

    Prosthetic limbs, sockets, and bionic components
    Orthotic bracing, cranial remolding, and spinal devices
    3D scanning, additive manufacturing, and CAD/CAM systems
    Central fabrication machinery and shop tools
    O&P clinical EHR and practice management software

    Location & Facilities

    Venue

    Halls & areas

    5
    Bayside Exhibit HallsOceanside BallroomMandalay Bay BallroomSouth Seas BallroomJasmine Ballroom

    Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino

    3950 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, USA

    Entrances & gates

    Mandalay Bay Convention Center Main Entrance

    Bayside Exhibit HallsOceanside BallroomMandalay Bay Ballroom

    Primary access point for registered attendees and exhibitors coming from the main drive or hotel walkway.

    Facilities

    On-site shuttle

    AOPA's Hotel and Travel page states shuttle services are among the options for travel between Harry Reid International Airport and Mandalay Bay, though it is not confirmed whether this is a dedicated AOPA shuttle or a general resort/airport shuttle service

    Parking: Multi-level self-parking structure located on the west side off Frank Sinatra Drive and Russell Road. Valet parking is available at the main hotel entrance and convention center drop-off point.

    Gate: Main convention entrance accessed via the dedicated Convention Center drive on Russell Road / Frank Sinatra Drive. Badge pickup and attendee check-in desks are located in the main convention foyer.

    Attend

    Entry & tickets

    Event days & opening times

    DayOpening hours
    Event daysAOPA 2026 National Assembly runs Wednesday, September 9, 2026 through Saturday, September 12, 2026, featuring daily technical education sessions, breakout tracks, general sessions, and exhibit hall hours at Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino
    • Full Conference O&P Professional (Member, Advanced Rate)

      Includes in-person and virtual access, education sessions, meeting materials, three breakfasts, two lunches, and welcome reception

      $799.00
    • Full Conference O&P Professional (Non-Member, Advanced Rate)

      Standard rate after July 20, 2026 is 1485 USD

      $1,369.00
    • Virtual Conference Registration (Member, Advanced Rate)

      Includes 60 days access to recorded sessions and automatic CE credit transmission to ABC and BOC

      $699.00
    • Virtual Conference Registration (Non-Member, Advanced Rate)

      Standard rate after July 20, 2026 is 1250 USD

      $1,140.00
    • One Day Conference Registration (Member, Advanced Rate)

      In-person only, includes all conference events for the selected day

      $459.00
    • One Day Conference Registration (Non-Member, Advanced Rate)

      Standard rate after July 20, 2026 is 899 USD

      $799.00
    • One Day Attendee Exhibition Only (Member, Advanced Rate)

      Exhibit hall access only for selected day, no lunch ticket or CE credits

      $180.00
    • One Day Attendee Exhibition Only (Non-Member, Advanced Rate)

      Standard rate after July 20, 2026 is 350 USD

      $225.00
    • Two Day Attendee Exhibition Only (Member, Advanced Rate)

      Exhibit hall access for two days only, no lunch ticket or CE credits

      $350.00
    • Two Day Attendee Exhibition Only (Non-Member, Advanced Rate)

      Standard rate after July 20, 2026 is 565 USD

      $395.00
    • Allied Professional/Guest (Member, Advanced Rate)

      For allied professionals outside O&P or guests; badge marked Allied Professional/Guest, no CE credits

      $459.00
    • Allied Professional/Guest (Non-Member, Advanced Rate)

      Standard rate after July 20, 2026 is 579 USD

      $479.00
    Register

    Ticket info

    Badge collection

    Registration category determines badge type; Allied Professional/Guest badges are marked accordingly and do not include CE credit access.

    Ticket notes

    Advanced rate pricing applies through July 20, 2026, after which standard rates apply. Group rates are available for groups of 3+ or 10+, and student discounts are available by emailing avandebunte@aopanet.org. Cancellations must be submitted in writing by July 31, 2026 for a refund minus a 100 dollar processing fee; no refunds after that date.

    Registration deadline

    2026-07-20

    Build-up & tear-down

    Setup startsSep 8, 2026
    Setup endsSep 9, 2026
    Teardown startsSep 12, 2026
    Teardown endsSep 12, 2026

    Who runs the show

    Organisers

    American Orthotic & Prosthetic Association (AOPA)

    Event Organiser

    AOPA Meetings Team

    General Assembly Inquiries

    Teri Kuffel, JD

    Executive Director

    Ashley Vande Bunte, CMP

    Director of Meetings and Education

    Kelly O'Neill, CEM

    Assistant Director, Meetings and Exhibitions

    Jules Gohng

    Meetings and Education Coordinator

    What's on

    Programme

    1

    Clinical Care: Orthotics Roundtable Panel

    1

    Digital O&P Care Presentation Panel

    5

    Event days

    07:45–20:00

    Typical time

    This agenda is still being finalised. Check the official agenda for the latest sessions.

    Speakers

    DH

    Dr. Hugh Herr

    Keynote Speaker @ MIT Media Lab

    Opening General Session Keynote & Lifetime Achievement Award

    TK

    Teri Kuffel, JD

    Executive Director @ American Orthotic & Prosthetic Association

    Breaking into the US O&P Market: An Immersive Workshop for Successful Commercialization

    KH

    Kimberly Hanson

    AOPA President @ Ottobock HealthCare LP

    Breaking into the US O&P Market Pre-Show Workshop

    PS

    Phillip Stevens, PhD, CPO

    Roundtable Speaker and Moderator @ Hanger Clinic

    Understanding and Addressing the Global Health Burdens of Lower Limb Orthosis Users

    RG

    Robert Gailey, PhD, PT, FAPTA

    Director, Functional Outcomes Research and Evaluation Center @ University of Miami Miller School of Medicine

    Stop Guessing, Start Scoring: A Practitioner's Guide to Data-Driven Prosthetic Care Practice

    CM

    Cassandra M. Delgado, MSPO, CPO

    Roundtable Speaker and Moderator @ Coyote Prosthetics and Orthotics

    Adjustments to Prosthetic Care in the GLP-1 Medication Era; Prosthetic Technology

    NV

    Nicole Ver Kuilen

    Roundtable Speaker @ Amputee Coalition

    Amputee Coalition Community Day: So Every BODY Can Move 101 and Leadership Roundtable

    JC

    J. Chad Duncan, PhD, CRC, CPO, LPO

    Lead Moderator, Digital O&P Care Track @ Drexel University

    Revolutionizing Transtibial Prosthetics: Digital Interfaces, AI Workflows, and Human-in-the-Loop Design; AI Is Rewriting Prosthetic Care

    EJ

    Erick J. Janisse, CO, CPED

    Presentation Speaker and Moderator @ Orthotic Holdings, Inc.

    Chronic Disease and the Pedorthic Patient; The Importance of Specialized Footwear; A Scientific Approach to Pedorthics

    TD

    Tyler D. Klenow, MSPO, MBA, CPO, FAAOP

    Moderator @ Ottobock HealthCare LP

    Prosthetic Free Paper Showcase; Adjustable-Volume Prosthetic Interfaces; Prosthetic Outcomes

    RB

    Rob Burcham, CP, LP

    Moderator @ Martin Bionics

    Help Your Business Work for You; Who Wants to be a Millionaire? O&P Edition; Reimbursement and Documentation

    JK

    Joanna Kenton, MHA, CPO, LPO

    Moderator @ Century College

    Orthotic and Prosthetic Materials; Orthotic & Prosthetic Workflows

    Tuesday, Sep 8, 2026

    09:00 – 17:00

    (PS1) Pre-Show Workshop: Breaking into the US O&P Market: An Immersive Workshop for Successful Commercialization

    Pre-Show Workshop

    Wednesday, Sep 9, 2026

    17:30 – 19:30

    Welcome to Las Vegas Opening Reception

    Networking Reception
    Exhibit Hall

    Thursday, Sep 10, 2026

    07:45 – 09:00

    (GS1) Opening General Session: Keynote by Dr. Hugh Herr & Lifetime Achievement Award

    General Session
    10:30 – 12:00

    (C1) Understanding and Addressing the Global Health Burdens of Lower Limb Orthosis Users

    Clinical Care: Orthotics Roundtable Panel
    18:30 – 20:00

    Night of Impact - A Night to Fuel the Future of O&P

    Special Event

    Friday, Sep 11, 2026

    07:45 – 09:00

    (GS2) General Session: Thranhardt Award Presentations & Campbell Outcomes and Naeder Digital O&P Awards

    General Session
    10:30 – 12:00

    (D4) AI Is Rewriting Prosthetic Care: Are We Ready?

    Digital O&P Care Presentation Panel
    12:00 – 13:30

    Women in O&P Luncheon and Panel

    Special Event/Panel

    Saturday, Sep 12, 2026

    08:00 – 09:00

    (GS3) General Session: AOPA Annual Member Meeting & Hamontree and Student/Resident Poster Awards

    General Session

    Topic tracks

    Clinical Care: Orthotics and ProstheticsDigital O&P CareBusiness EducationPedorthicsTechnical/FabricationManufacturers' Workshops

    Co-located events

    IIOP Mobility Lab - The Future of Limb Loss Rehabilitation

    Separate ticket

    Co-located seminars

    Amputee Coalition Community Day: So Every BODY Can Move

    Paid

    Pre-Show Workshops (PS1, PS2, PS3)

    Paid

    Manufacturers' Workshops (MWA-MWD series)

    Paid

    Awards

    Howard R. Thranhardt Award

    Annual

    Presented annually to the top clinical research abstracts submitted to the AOPA National Assembly, recognizing outstanding scientific contributions that advance evidence-based O&P clinical practice.

    Clinical Research
    source

    Otto and Lucille Becker Award

    Annual

    Student/resident poster contest award for the best orthotic abstract, presented at the AOPA National Assembly and supported by Becker Orthopedic.

    OrthoticsStudent Research
    source

    Edwin and Kathryn Arbogast Award

    Annual

    Student/resident poster contest award for the best prosthetic abstract, presented at the AOPA National Assembly and supported by WillowWood.

    ProstheticsStudent Research
    source

    Sponsors

    GeBBS Healthcare Solutions

    How the last edition performed

    Previous edition

    Current edition

    2026 · 2,000 visitors · 160 exhibitors

    Forecast — not final

    Visitors

    2,000

    Exhibitors

    160

    Growth over time

    Edition recap

    The 2025 AOPA National Assembly, held September 3-6 in Orlando, Florida, drew more than 2,000 attendees and over 160 exhibitors, with AOPA leadership describing attendance as record-breaking.

    New this edition

    • 1

      Digital Showcase

      Dedicated session block highlighting digital clinical workflows, 3D scanning, additive manufacturing (3D printing), and CAD/CAM in Orthotics and Prosthetics.

      Source

    Next edition outlook

    2026-09-09 – 2026-09-12
    estimated

    The 2026 AOPA National Assembly moves to Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas, Nevada, running September 9-12, with AOPA promoting continuity of scale by reusing the more than 2,000 attendees and more than 160 exhibitors description used for 2025.

    Venue change from Orlando's prior host hotel to Mandalay Bay, Las Vegas Addition of a dedicated Digital Showcase session on the final day Introduction of Post-Show Workshops on the afternoon of the closing day

    Impact

    A bigger and stronger platform

    The 2025 AOPA National Assembly in Orlando drew more than 2,000 attendees and over 160 exhibitors, with AOPA leadership publicly describing it as one of the association's best years and a return to pre-pandemic attendance levels. As the premier annual event for the orthotic and prosthetic profession, it combined clinical education, an exhibit hall of new O&P technology, and extensive networking programming.

    Audience quality

    High-value decision-makers

    AOPA positions the National Assembly as the O&P profession's premier annual gathering, drawing clinicians, technicians, business leaders, researchers, educators, and manufacturers from across the orthotic and prosthetic industry. The 2,000-plus attendee base and 160-plus exhibitor participation in 2025 reflect a concentrated, specialist trade audience rather than a general consumer crowd.

    Exhibitor outcomes

    Real business growth

    Official AOPA materials do not publish specific exhibitor ROI figures such as leads generated or sales closed at the 2025 Assembly. Exhibitor value is implied through consistent year-over-year participation of more than 160 companies and AOPA's own description of the event as offering access to more than 2,000 O&P professionals actively sourcing new products.

    Intelligence

    Exhibitors

    166

    Exhibitors

    24

    Categories

    6

    Countries

    4

    Pavilions

    Top exhibitor countries

    Top 6 by exhibitor count — estimates based on published directory.

    • United States
      54
    • China
      5
    • United Kingdom
      3
    • France
      2
    • Sweden
      1
    • Japan
      1

    ~82% of listed exhibitors are from United States.

    Category breakdown

    1~40
    estimate
    2~17
    estimate
    3~12
    estimate
    4~12
    estimate
    5~11
    estimate
    6~10
    estimate
    7~9
    estimate
    8~6
    estimate
    9~5
    estimate
    10~5
    estimate
    11~5
    estimate
    12~5
    estimate
    13~4
    estimate
    14~4
    estimate
    15~4
    estimate

    National pavilions

    United States

    ~21 stands
    estimate

    China

    ~5 stands
    estimate

    United Kingdom

    ~3 stands
    estimate

    France

    ~2 stands
    estimate

    Buyer targets

    High priority

    Buyers sourcing

    Orthotics & Prosthetics Suppliers (profile Pending)

    Buyers sourcing

    Orthotic Bracing & Spinal Orthosis Manufacturers

    Buyers sourcing

    Other Orthotics & Prosthetics Suppliers

    Buyers sourcing

    O&P 3D Printing, Scanning & Digital Manufacturing

    Buyers sourcing

    Bionic, Myoelectric & Powered Prosthetic Devices

    Medium priority

    Buyers sourcing

    Central Fabrication & Custom O&P Manufacturing Services

    Buyers sourcing

    O&P Billing, Revenue Cycle & Practice Consulting

    Buyers sourcing

    Diabetic, Therapeutic & Orthopedic Footwear

    Buyers sourcing

    Prosthetic Liners, Sockets & Suspension Systems

    Buyers sourcing

    O&P Education, Certification & Residency Programs

    Intelligence

    Market context

    Key market insights, trends, news and related events to help you understand the bigger picture.

    North America, with strong U.S.-led demand and international supplier participation from Europe and Asia.

    Why it matters

    AOPA is a concentrated, specialty buying environment where clinicians, clinic owners, educators, and manufacturers all gather in one place, so it is more efficient than a broad healthcare expo for O&P-specific demand generation. The event’s scale, education content, and exhibitor mix make it useful both for product discovery and for testing how well a device, component, or software story lands with real practitioners. Because the broader market is being shaped by reimbursement pressure, digital workflows, and advanced device adoption, AOPA is a strong proxy for where the category is moving.

    Industry trends

    Key trends shaping this market and its wider industry.

    01

    Digital manufacturing is becoming a core buying criterion

    O&P buyers are increasingly evaluating 3D printing, scanning, and workflow software alongside traditional device quality, which raises the importance of integrated hardware-plus-software demos.

    Source
    02

    Microprocessor and powered devices keep premium demand alive

    Advanced prosthetic knees, myoelectric systems, and other powered technologies continue to support higher-value sales even as clinics scrutinize reimbursement and total cost of ownership.

    Source
    03

    Orthotics remains the broader revenue base

    Orthotic products still account for the larger share of the market, with braces and spinal supports benefiting from chronic care needs, aging populations, and non-surgical treatment pathways.

    Source
    04

    Reimbursement and prior authorization remain a friction point

    Even where device adoption is strong, uneven coverage and approval delays continue to shape buying decisions, lengthen sales cycles, and favor vendors that can prove outcomes and administrative ease.

    Source
    05

    Workforce and clinician capacity matter more

    The market is still constrained by a shortage of qualified clinicians, so education-heavy events like AOPA stay relevant as both a training platform and a recruiting channel.

    Source

    Market news

    Latest updates from across the market.

    2026-04-30

    AOPA published its 2026 National Assembly calendar entry

    AOPA’s own calendar page confirms the 2026 National Assembly in Las Vegas and describes it as the largest and most influential gathering in orthotics, prosthetics, and pedorthics.

    Read
    2026-04-21

    Össur confirmed participation at AOPA 2026

    Össur’s event page says it will exhibit and host workshops at AOPA 2026, reinforcing the event’s role as a launch and education platform for major suppliers.

    Read
    2026-03-01

    AOPA said 2026 planning is underway in Las Vegas

    AOPA posted that its planning committee was in Las Vegas and described the 2026 National Assembly as building on stronger-than-ever 2025 engagement.

    Read
    2025-09-23

    AOPA highlighted 2025 attendance returning to pre-pandemic levels

    AOPA described the 2025 National Assembly as an incredible success with more than 2,000 attendees and more than 160 exhibitors.

    Read
    2024-10-03

    AOPA locked host cities through 2028

    AOPA announced future host cities for the National Assembly, confirming Las Vegas for 2026 and giving exhibitors and attendees a multi-year planning horizon.

    Read

    Comparable O&P and rehabilitation circuit

    2026-02 to 2026-09

    The next 6-12 months include several relevant orthotics, prosthetics, rehabilitation, and assistive-technology events that overlap on buyers, exhibitors, and product themes. Together they form a practical circuit for launching products, recruiting distributors, and validating clinical messaging across North America and Europe.

    6–8 Feb 2026

    OPAI National Conference 2026

    Ahmedabad, India

    Regional orthotics and prosthetics meeting with clinical and exhibition overlap; useful for supplier visibility in South Asia.

    website
    18–21 Feb 2026

    American Academy of Orthotists and Prosthetists Annual Meeting & Scientific Symposium

    Nashville, USA

    Strong education-first O&P meeting with clinicians, researchers, and exhibitors; useful for early-year lead generation and messaging tests.

    website
    23–25 Mar 2026

    ISPO GEM 2026

    Bangkok, Thailand

    International prosthetics and orthotics education meeting that can complement broader global business development.

    website
    19–22 May 2026

    ACPOC Annual Meeting 2026

    Philadelphia, USA

    More pediatric and complex-care oriented, but relevant for manufacturers, components, and clinical workflow suppliers.

    website
    19–22 May 2026

    OTWorld

    Leipzig, Germany

    One of the largest global trade fairs for orthotics, prosthetics, and rehabilitation technology; strong for international launches and distribution.

    website
    9–12 Sep 2026

    AOPA National Assembly 2026

    Las Vegas, USA

    Largest and most influential U.S. O&P meeting in the circuit; ideal for concentrated clinical and commercial outreach.

    website

    Q1 2026 O&P education run

    American Academy of Orthotists and Prosthetists Annual Meeting & Scientific SymposiumOPAI National Conference 2026ISPO GEM 2026

    Best for early-year product messaging, clinical education, and regional market testing.

    Q2 2026 exhibition and research window

    ACPOC Annual Meeting 2026OTWorld

    Useful for pediatric, global, and broader rehabilitation technology exposure before summer planning.

    Late-summer to fall North American focus

    AOPA National Assembly 2026

    The main U.S. specialty anchor for O&P commercial activity, education, and distributor conversations.

    Dates and event identities were taken from organiser pages where available; where only calendar listings or event pages were accessible, those URLs were used as the primary source.

    Plan your trip

    Travel & logistics

    Local currency · USD

    Arrival airports

    Choose from the following airports, with convenient access to the event and venue.

    LAS

    Harry Reid International Airport

    Primary and most convenient airport for Mandalay Bay; officially cited by AOPA hotel and travel page as about 3 miles from the venue with taxis, rideshares, and shuttle services available

    3 miles

    to venue

    10-15 minutes

    by car

    Hotel tiers

    A range of accommodation options near the venue and across key areas.

    budget
    Off-Strip / South Strip outskirts

    USD 99–150 / night

    Cost-effective properties near the airport or off the main Strip. Attendees relying on these should budget for daily rideshare or taxi costs to Mandalay Bay, as regional transit connections can be slow.

    mid range
    South Strip / Mandalay Bay official block

    USD 99–190 / night

    The official AOPA block at Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino offers highly competitive rates (USD 99-190/night plus $25 daily resort fee) for an on-site luxury property, making it the most practical mid-range choice if booked early.

    premium
    Adjacent luxury Strip resorts

    USD 250–500 / night

    Luxury properties along the central and south Strip (e.g., Delano, Four Seasons) offer premium amenities. When the official Mandalay Bay block sells out, standard prevailing rates at these properties will apply.

    Local transport

    Get around the city with these convenient transport options.

    Taxi

    Estimated costUSD 25
    Best forHarry Reid International Airport (LAS) to Mandalay Bay Resort

    A simple and direct option for up to five people. Taxis are readily available at airport terminal taxi stands.

    Ride-hail (Uber / Lyft)

    Estimated costVaries by time and surge pricing; often comparable to taxis for airport runs
    Best forAirport to hotel and cross-Strip transfers

    Widely available and convenient alternative to taxis. Use designated rideshare pickup zones at the airport and Mandalay Bay.

    Rental Car / Driving

    Estimated costVaries by agency; daily parking fees apply at the resort
    Best forRegional travel to Mandalay Bay

    Mandalay Bay offers self-parking and valet options. The venue is easily accessed via the dedicated Convention Center drive on Russell Road / Frank Sinatra Drive.

    Plan your trip

    Visa & entry documents

    Check the latest visa requirements and entry guidelines before travelling.

    Visa required
    ATA Carnet: accepted
    TypeWho needs itFeeProcessing
    B-1 Business Visitor VisaMost non-U.S. business visitors attending meetings, conferences, or trade shows in the United States; also used for short professional activities that fit temporary business visitor rules.$185.00Varies by consulate; appointment availability and administrative processing can add significant wait time.
    Visa Waiver Program (ESTA)Citizens of Visa Waiver Program countries traveling for business or tourism for stays of up to 90 days, if otherwise eligible and approved via ESTA.Not yet confirmedESTA approval is often quick, but travelers should apply in advance because approval is not guaranteed instantly.

    Visa-free entry is nationality-dependent and limited to travelers eligible under the U.S. Visa Waiver Program. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security states the program permits citizens of designated countries to travel to the United States for business or tourism for stays of up to 90 days without a visa; eligibility must be checked against the official VWP list before travel.

    ATA Carnet is accepted for temporary import of professional equipment and trade-show goods into the United States. U.S. Trade.gov notes it is used to avoid duties and taxes on temporary exhibition goods and can eliminate the need for CBP Form 4455 for covered items; it is not recommended for consumables or goods intended for sale.

    Official visa page

    Weather

    Las Vegas in early-to-mid September is typically hot and dry, with daytime highs commonly in the mid-90s Fahrenheit (around 35-37C) and overnight lows in the 70s F (around 21-24C). Rainfall is minimal, and humidity is generally low, though the desert heat can feel intense during outdoor transit between hotels and the Strip.

    Plan for the climate

    Check temperatures and pack accordingly

    Venue connectivity

    Venue access connectivity: how the venue connects to airports, railway/metro/bus hubs, hotels, and major city landmarks. Do not describe Wi-Fi/SIM/mobile internet here.

    Ride-hailing

    Taxis

    Public transit

    Car rentals

    Cultural notes

    Useful information to help you have a smooth and respectful visit.

    Tipping is expected

    Las Vegas hospitality culture expects tipping for taxis, rideshares, valet, bellhops, and food service staff, typically 15-20 percent for meals and a few dollars for luggage or valet assistance

    Casino resort etiquette

    Mandalay Bay is a working casino resort; attendees should be aware that meeting and exhibit areas are integrated with gaming floors, and photography inside casino areas is generally discouraged or restricted

    Dress code varies by session

    Business or business-casual attire is standard for education sessions and the exhibit hall, while evening networking events may allow smart-casual dress; comfortable shoes are recommended given the large resort footprint

    Resort fees are standard

    Nevada hotels commonly charge a mandatory daily resort fee separate from the room rate; AOPA's negotiated Mandalay Bay rate includes a discounted 25 dollar per day resort fee covering Wi-Fi and other amenities

    Practical guides

    Visitor & Exhibitor Essentials

    Everything needed to arrive prepared, navigate the event, and make the visit productive.

    Flights

    Destination: Harry Reid International Airport (LAS)

    AOPA does not name an official travel/flight booking partner; attendees are directed to book their own air travel into Harry Reid International Airport (LAS), about 3 miles from Mandalay Bay

    Visa

    Most business visitors need a U.S. B-1 visa unless they qualify for the Visa Waiver Program. The official route for eligible VWP nationals is ESTA; other travelers generally apply for B-1 before attending the Assembly.

    Estimated cost: Not yet confirmed

    Processing: Consular processing times vary by country and appointment availability; ESTA, where eligible, is usually much faster but should still be applied for in advance.

    Do not treat visa-free entry as universal. Nationality, purpose of travel, and prior immigration history matter. Attendees should confirm current eligibility on official U.S. government pages before booking.

    Official

    Hotels

    Find a stay near the venue with options for every budget.

    Check-in (recommended)

    2026-09-08

    Check-out (recommended)

    2026-09-12

    Areas to stay

    Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino (On-site) · South Las Vegas Strip · Harry Reid International Airport corridor

    budget

    USD 99-150

    mid range

    USD 99-190

    premium

    USD 250-500

    Transport

    Get to the venue and around the city with these options.

    Airport → venue: Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) is approximately 3 miles from Mandalay Bay, easily accessible via taxi or rideshare.

    Hotel → venue: Attendees staying at Mandalay Bay can walk directly to the convention center via enclosed walkways. Off-site guests should use the dedicated Convention Center drive drop-off.

    Ride-hail: Uber and Lyft are widely available and serve designated pickup/drop-off points at the airport and the Mandalay Bay convention entrance.

    Public transit: Regional buses and the Las Vegas Monorail serve the Strip, but ride-hail is recommended for direct, efficient access to the Mandalay Bay Convention Center.

    Parking: Self-parking and valet parking are available at Mandalay Bay for a daily fee, with designated spaces in the multi-level garage.

    Weather

    Plan and pack for the event climate.

    Month: September

    Temperature: Approximately 21C to 37C (70F to 98F)

    Seasonality: Minimal rainfall expected; dry desert climate with low humidity typical for early autumn in Las Vegas

    Packing: Pack lightweight, breathable clothing for daytime heat and outdoor transit, with a light layer for air-conditioned indoor session rooms and the exhibit hall

    Plan your trip

    Planning

    Best day to visit: 2026-09-11

    Friday is usually the strongest balance of education, exhibit floor traffic, and networking for a specialty professional conference, and the published AOPA program places a full day of sessions and activity in the middle of the event.

    T-90

    Confirm whether the event is worth a visit or exhibit slot — Use the quiz decision before committing budget, staff, or travel time.

    T-75

    Map target buyers, competitors, and session topics — Prioritize orthotists, prosthetists, clinic owners, and manufacturers aligned to your category.

    T-60

    Build a meeting list and outreach sequence — Target exhibitors for demos, pricing, and implementation questions; request appointments early.

    T-45

    Lock travel and hotel budget — Las Vegas convention dates can move hotel rates quickly; keep flexibility for arrivals and departures.

    T-30

    Prepare demo assets and appointment collateral — Bring concise product sheets, use-case stories, and a clear next-step offer.

    T-21

    Define lead qualification criteria — Decide which job titles, clinic types, and purchase timelines justify immediate follow-up.

    T-14

    Confirm badge registration and attendee list access — Download confirmations and keep an offline copy of key meeting contacts.

    T-10

    Shortlist sessions and expo targets by day — Leave room for walking the exhibit floor and impromptu meetings.

    T-7

    Pack for travel, walking, and indoor/outdoor temperature swings — Las Vegas heat can be strong even in September; comfortable shoes matter.

    T-3

    Set follow-up workflow and calendar blocks — Schedule same-day notes capture and 24-hour follow-up once meetings start.

    Sample visitor itinerary

    Route-optimised day
    07:30

    Breakfast and review target meetings

    Mandalay Bay or nearby café
    09:00

    Attend general session or first priority education block

    Convention center
    11:00

    Walk the exhibit hall and book demos

    Exhibit hall
    12:30

    Networking lunch or exhibitor meeting

    Venue or nearby Strip restaurant
    14:00

    Second session block or focused booth visits

    Convention center
    17:30

    Evening reception or planned dinner meeting

    Venue or South Strip
    20:00

    Capture notes and send same-day follow-up

    Hotel

    Side trips

    4

    Las Vegas Strip

    District

    Useful for dinners, client meetings, and after-hours networking without leaving the convention corridor.

    5-15 minutes by rideshare or short drive

    Shark Reef Aquarium

    Attraction

    Easy low-effort evening option if you want something near the venue without a long transfer.

    On-site at Mandalay Bay

    Fountains of Bellagio

    Landmark

    Classic Las Vegas stop for informal networking or a quick off-site break.

    15-20 minutes by rideshare

    Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas Sign

    Landmark

    Popular photo stop for teams and visitors looking for a simple first-night outing.

    10-15 minutes by rideshare

    Networking spots

    4

    Exhibit hall aisles near high-traffic booths

    Event

    Best for organic product conversations and quick introductions between sessions.

     

    Hotel lobby and café areas at Mandalay Bay

    Lounge

    Good for pre-booked meetings and short follow-ups away from booth noise.

     

    South Strip restaurants

    Restaurant

    Useful for longer dinners and deeper business conversations after the show floor closes.

     

    Registration and foyer area

    Event

    High-traffic space for first meetings, badge pickup follow-ups, and session handoffs.

     

    Budget

    Costs & budget

    Shell scheme

    USD 328–807 / m²

    Raw space

    Not yet confirmed

    Standard booth

    9.29 m²

    AOPA 2026 exhibitor booth pricing has not yet been published on the official EventScribe site as of this research; figures shown are carried forward from the confirmed 2025 AOPA National Assembly exhibit space rates (per 10x10 ft / 9.29 sqm booth), the most recent official pricing available. Corner booths carry a 100 USD surcharge. Booth purchase includes two complimentary Full Conference registrations per 10x10 space purchased.

    source

    Build your working budget

    Adjust the inputs below to create a directional event budget.

    Estimated budget
    Live estimate
    • Booth 9 m² × $567.50/m²$5,107.50
    • Hotel × 3 nights$360.00
    • Per diem × 3$225.00
    • Visa$185.00
    • Insurance$50.00
    Estimated total$5,927.50

    This is a directional estimate. Please verify live rates before booking.

    Cost reference

    Official cost items and estimated ranges for exhibitors.

    booth_space_member

    exhibitor · 10x10 booth

    USD 3050 / per 10x10 ft booth

    officialAs of 2025-09-06

    booth_space_non_member

    exhibitor · 10x10 booth

    USD 7500 / per 10x10 ft booth

    officialAs of 2025-09-06

    corner_booth_surcharge

    exhibitor · corner

    USD 100 / flat surcharge per corner booth

    officialAs of 2025-09-06

    exhibitor_badge_member

    exhibitor · staff badge

    USD 429 / each additional full-conference exhibitor badge

    officialAs of 2025-09-06

    exhibitor_badge_non_member

    exhibitor · staff badge

    USD 529 / each additional full-conference exhibitor badge

    officialAs of 2025-09-06

    exhibitor_badge_hall_only_member

    exhibitor · staff badge

    USD 319 / each additional hall-only exhibitor badge

    officialAs of 2025-09-06

    hotel_budget

    visitor · budget

    USD 120–180 / per night

    estimateAs of 2026-07-22

    hotel_mid

    visitor · mid_range

    USD 180–320 / per night

    estimateAs of 2026-07-22

    hotel_premium

    visitor · premium

    USD 320–600 / per night

    estimateAs of 2026-07-22

    Decision

    Visit, exhibit, or skip?

    Should you go?

    Choose the answers that best match your team, budget, and commercial goals. Higher scores favor one path over the others.

    QUESTION 1 OF 8

    Are you attending mainly to buy, learn, or sell into the O&P market?

    Decision matrix

    Compare participation options side by side to choose the best fit for your objectives.

    visit

    Choose visit if you want a concentrated specialty conference with strong peer learning and a targeted exhibit hall.

    Best for

    O&P clinicians, clinic owners, product evaluators, students, and teams seeking education plus vendor comparison

    Min. budget

    $1,800.00

    Timeline

    4-8 weeks to register, book travel, and shortlist target meetings

    Risks

    Travel cost and time may outweigh value if you do not need education or vendor sourcing

    Large venue footprint can reduce productive time if you arrive unplanned

    exhibit

    Choose exhibit if your offer fits the O&P buyer set and you can staff, demo, and follow up quickly.

    Best for

    Manufacturers, component suppliers, software vendors, fabrication technology firms, and service providers selling into orthotics and prosthetics

    Min. budget

    $9,000.00

    Timeline

    8-16 weeks to secure booth, ship freight, and prepare staff and demos

    Risks

    Booth spend can climb quickly once space, services, travel, and staffing are added

    ROI depends on pre-booked meetings and disciplined follow-up

    skip

    Skip if your target customers are not orthotic and prosthetic professionals or your team cannot support the event properly.

    Best for

    Companies outside the O&P buyer stack, teams without budget, or exhibitors unable to support on-site selling and post-show follow-up

    Min. budget

    Not yet confirmed

    Timeline

    None

    Risks

    Missing a specialized but valuable buyer audience

    Waiting another year may delay market feedback or launches

    Book with

    Partners

    Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino

    Host Hotel and Venue

    Official host venue for the 2026 AOPA National Assembly, located at 3950 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89119, hosting general sessions, the exhibit hall, and headquarters accommodations.

    Visit partner Confidence: high

    AOPA official event listing

    AOPA Registration Portal

    Registration and Exhibitor Management

    Official online registration system for attendees, exhibitors, and volunteers of the 2026 AOPA National Assembly, managed via Omnievent.

    Visit partner Confidence: high

    AOPA official registration site

    Recommended providers

    Hotels

    Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino

    Official block rates range from $99 to $190 per night plus a $25 discounted daily resort fee. AOPA warns against third-party housing pirates; book only through the official direct link provided by AOPA.

    FAQs & glossary

    Answers

    Frequently asked

    Glossary

    1
    AOPA
    American Orthotic & Prosthetic Association, the primary trade association organizing the National Assembly.
    2
    CPO
    Certified Prosthetist Orthotist, a primary clinical practitioner credential attending the Assembly.
    3
    CEU
    Continuing Education Unit, mandatory professional maintenance credits earned by certified practitioners.
    4
    NCOPE
    National Commission on Orthotic and Prosthetic Education, overseeing residency programs and student research competitions.

    Digital business cards for the show floor

    Display a free company card at your booth, or share your professional card on the show floor.

    Create a free card