Digital buyer journeys
What digital buyer journeys means for buyers and exhibitors in this sector.
Event overview
Overview
The HECC Conference 2026 is a premier event for K-12 educators and technology professionals, taking place from November 11-13 at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Indianapolis. Attendees will engage in interactive workshops led by industry leaders, explore the latest technology in the exhibit hall, and network with peers.
This conference is designed to enhance the implementation of technology in educational settings. HECC Conference 2026 takes place in Indianapolis, United States.
TL;DR
- 1Dates and Venue: HECC Conference 2026 runs from November 11-13, 2026 at Crowne Plaza Hotel, Indianapolis, IN.
- 2Scale and Focus: This conference focuses on K-12 technology and features hands-on workshops and an exhibitor showcase.
- 3Organiser: The event is organized by the Hoosier Educational Computer Coordinators (HECC).
- 4Entry: Registration is open with costs of $400 for two days and $450 for three days.
Why visit
HECC is built around the practical work of Indiana K-12 technology teams: conference sessions and hands-on workshops cover LMS administration, student data privacy, network and E-rate planning, classroom AV, and device management.
Why exhibit
Exhibitors will have the chance to showcase their products to a targeted audience of K-12 educators and decision-makers. This is an opportunity to connect with potential clients and partners in the education technology sector. Exhibiting at HECC Conference 2026 will enhance brand visibility and facilitate valuable interactions.
Attendees, exhibitors & solutions
Who this event is for
Visitor profile
Typical attendee groups you can expect to meet.
K-12 educators seeking technology solutions
Technology coordinators from school districts
Administrators interested in educational technology
IT professionals in K-12 education
Curriculum developers focused on technology integration
Educational consultants advising on technology use
Exhibitor profile
Main supplier and exhibitor segments present at the show.
EdTech companies providing software solutions
Hardware manufacturers for educational tools
Consultants specializing in technology implementation
Service providers for K-12 technology support
Content creators for educational resources
Training organizations for technology in education
Product categories
Key solution areas showcased across the event.
Learning management systems and course delivery platforms
Student information systems and district data dashboards
Classroom interactive displays, projectors, and AV control
Device management for Chromebooks, iPads, and Windows fleets
Network infrastructure, Wi-Fi, and E-rate-funded connectivity
Cybersecurity, identity and SSO, and student data privacy tools
Digital curriculum, assessment, and formative feedback platforms
STEM, CTE, makerspace, and robotics resources
Accessibility, UDL, and assistive technology
Professional learning and instructional coaching services
Library/media center and digital citizenship resources
Esports, school AV production, and streaming tools
Location & Facilities
Venue
Crowne Plaza Hotel
Indianapolis, United States
Facilities
Parking
Crowne Plaza Hotel in Indianapolis typically provides on-site or adjacent visitor parking during major trade fairs; confirm daily rates, payment methods and hall access on the organiser or venue website before travel.
Food options
On-site catering
On-site diningParking: Crowne Plaza Hotel in Indianapolis typically provides on-site or adjacent visitor parking during major trade fairs; confirm daily rates, payment methods and hall access on the organiser or venue website before travel.
Gate: Follow organiser signage to the main visitor entrance at Crowne Plaza Hotel for badge collection; allow extra time for security screening during peak morning arrival.
Attend
Entry & tickets
Intelligence
Market context
Key market insights, trends, news and related events to help you understand the bigger picture.
Indianapolis, United States
Why it matters
On 2026-11-11 to 2026-11-13, HECC Conference 2026 in Indianapolis covering Learning management systems and course delivery platforms, Student information systems and district data dashboards, Cla gives technology buyers a single calendar window to compare suppliers, validate specs on the stand, and book follow-ups before the next buying cycle - especially when your roadmap matches the published exhibitor profile.
Industry trends
Key trends shaping this market and its wider industry.
Sustainability in procurement
What sustainability in procurement means for buyers and exhibitors in this sector.
Automation and labour efficiency
What automation and labour efficiency means for buyers and exhibitors in this sector.
Regional supply-chain resilience
What regional supply-chain resilience means for buyers and exhibitors in this sector.
Hybrid engagement models
What hybrid engagement models means for buyers and exhibitors in this sector.
Plan your trip
Travel & logistics
Local currency · USD
Hotel tiers
A range of accommodation options near the venue and across key areas.
Crowne Plaza Indianapolis-Dwtn-Union Stn by IHG
Conference venue hotel (4-star)
Downtown Indianapolis, Historic Union StationUSD 149–229 / night
HECC's conference hotel and the most convenient base for Union Station sessions. The 2026 HECC room block is expected to fill quickly. Amenities include paid breakfast, free Wi-Fi, paid parking, air conditioning, fitness centre, bar, restaurant, and room service. Nightly band is an approximate planning estimate.
sourceCrowne Plaza Indianapolis-Airport by IHG
Airport hotel (4-star)
Indianapolis airport corridorUseful for early flights or free self-parking; free Wi-Fi and airport-area location, but you will need a car, shuttle, taxi, or rideshare for Union Station. Nightly band is an approximate planning estimate.
Hyatt Regency Indianapolis
Downtown convention hotel (4-star)
Downtown Indianapolis, near Indiana Convention CenterA downtown convention-district alternative within a short walk or rideshare of Union Station; confirm HECC rates and cancellation terms directly. Nightly band is an approximate planning estimate.
Local transport
Get around the city with these convenient transport options.
Walk
Estimated costFree
Best forDowntown hotels to Historic Union Station
HECC lists area hotels within walking distance of the Historic Union Station venue. Allow extra time in rain or cold.
IndyGo bus
Estimated costUSD 2.50-6 single metro/light-rail journey (contactless)
Best forDowntown Indianapolis to Union Station
Indianapolis has no metro or light rail, so local buses are the fixed-route public transit option. Use IndyGo's trip planner for the current route.
Rideshare or taxi
Estimated costUSD 35–75 taxi or rideshare to the venue district
Best forDowntown hotels to Historic Union Station
Useful for late finishes or bad weather; for a short downtown hop, walking may be faster during event traffic.
Rideshare or taxi
Estimated costUSD 35–75 taxi or rideshare to the venue district
Best forCrowne Plaza Indianapolis-Airport to the Union Station venue
Book in the app before leaving the airport hotel; allow extra time for downtown event traffic.
Car and parking
Estimated costApprox. USD 15-30 per day in downtown garages; airport hotel self-parking is free - confirm rates
Best forDriving from the airport corridor to downtown
The airport Crowne Plaza advertises free parking; the downtown venue hotel charges for parking. Confirm venue parking and validation options.
Plan your trip
Visa & entry documents
Check the latest visa requirements and entry guidelines before travelling.
Visa not required
ATA Carnet: check with organiser
Weather
November in Indianapolis is late autumn: expect cool, changeable days, with approximate historical highs of 8-14°C (46-57°F) and lows of 0-6°C (32-43°F). The city's wettest month is May at roughly 4.1 inches of average rainfall and the driest is February, so November is not peak-rain season, but rain is still possible. Carry layers and a waterproof shell for the walk between Union Station and nearby hotels, and check the forecast in the final week.
Plan for the climate
Check temperatures and pack accordingly
Venue connectivity
HECC conference hotels advertise free Wi-Fi in guest rooms and public areas; venue Wi-Fi may be available but confirm with the organiser. Downtown Indianapolis and IND sit in strong US mobile coverage. For international travelers, a US eSIM or local SIM is easier than roaming; bring a power bank for long workshop days and check whether your district requires a filtered device.
Ride-hailing
Taxis
Public transit
Car rentals
Cultural notes
Useful information to help you have a smooth and respectful visit.
Time zone
Indianapolis is on Eastern Time; in November 2026 the city observes EST (UTC-5) after the autumn clock change. Confirm the current local time before scheduling calls with your district.
Business dress
Business casual is standard for K-12 technology conferences in Indiana; sessions and vendor conversations are informal compared with vendor-led trade fairs.
Tipping
US practice applies in Indianapolis: tip restaurant servers and bar staff about 15-20%, add $2-5 per bag for hotel bell staff, and leave $2-5 per night for housekeeping.
Union Station venue
The conference is set inside the historic Union Station, so allow a few extra minutes to navigate the concourse and find session rooms.
Walkability
Downtown Indianapolis is grid-like and walkable near Union Station; use crosswalks, watch for event traffic, and carry a layer for the walk between hotels and the venue.
Practical guides
Visitor & Exhibitor Essentials
Everything needed to arrive prepared, navigate the event, and make the visit productive.
Flights
Book commercial flights into Indianapolis International Airport (IND) rather than a regional general-aviation field. Compare arrival times against the HECC schedule and reserve the conference hotel block before fares and rooms tighten. For international itineraries, allow a US entry buffer and confirm whether your fare includes a checked bag for conference materials.
Visa
A foreign national travelling to the United States for temporary business needs a B-1 visitor visa unless eligible for entry under the Visa Waiver Program; confirm your nationality's status with the U.S. Department of State before booking.
Processing: Varies by nationality; apply several weeks before travel.
USCIS notes that nationals of certain countries may enter for business without a visa under Visa Waiver Program rules. Apply early and carry conference registration confirmation to support the 'temporary business visitor' purpose.
OfficialTransport
Get to the venue and around the city with these options.
Airport → venue: Use the nearest international airport serving Indianapolis; Metro, train or taxi links are typically available to the venue district.
Hotel → venue: Precinct hotels near Crowne Plaza Hotel: Downtown Indianapolis, Historic Union Station: Crowne Plaza Indianapolis-Dwtn-Union Stn by IHG; Indianapolis airport corridor: Crowne Plaza Indianapolis-Airport by IHG; Downtown Indianapolis, near Indiana Convention Center: Hyatt Regency Indianapolis.
Ride-hail: Uber and Lyft generally serve Indianapolis and IND; use the airport's designated rideshare pickup zone. For downtown hotels to Union Station, the ride is short, so walking may be faster during event traffic. Confirm the driver and fare in the app before departing.
Public transit: Indianapolis has no metro or light rail. Downtown is served by IndyGo fixed-route buses, including the Red Line bus rapid transit corridor, with connections at the Julia M. Carson Transit Center. Use IndyGo's trip planner for the current route from your hotel to Union Station, and keep taxi or rideshare as a fallback for late sessions.
Parking: Downtown Indianapolis has paid garages and surface lots near Union Station; hotel parking policies vary. The Crowne Plaza Downtown charges for parking, while the airport Crowne Plaza advertises free self-parking. Budget approximately USD 15-30 per day for downtown garage parking and confirm whether your hotel or the venue validates.
Weather
Plan and pack for the event climate.
Month: November 2026
Temperature: Approx. daytime highs 8-14°C (46-57°F), overnight lows 0-6°C (32-43°F); historical averages, check the forecast before travel.
Seasonality: November is not Indianapolis's wettest month: May averages about 4.1 inches of rain and February is driest. Expect changeable late-autumn conditions with rain possible during conference week.
Packing: Pack layers, a waterproof outer layer, comfortable walking shoes for the Union Station concourse and downtown blocks, a laptop or tablet charger, and a power bank for workshop days. A small umbrella is useful; November is cool but not Indianapolis's wettest month.
Plan your trip
Planning
Best day to visit: Day 2 (mid-show)
Mid-show days at HECC Conference 2026 usually combine full exhibitor attendance with scheduled B2B meetings, before early pack-down on the final day.
T-1
Confirm your HECC registration and session selections; check the conference schedule for workshop capacity.
T-2
Book a room in the HECC block at the Crowne Plaza Indianapolis-Dwtn-Union Stn before the block releases.
T-3
Book flights into Indianapolis International Airport (IND) and decide on taxi, rideshare, shuttle, or IndyGo for the downtown transfer.
T-4
Download the IndyGo and a rideshare app; save the Union Station address and your hotel address offline.
T-5
Check the November forecast and pack layers plus a waterproof shell for the walk between Union Station and downtown hotels.
T-6
Bring a laptop or tablet, charger, and power bank for hands-on workshops; confirm whether your district requires a filtered device.
T-7
Review the session grid and mark conflicts; identify one LMS/SIS, one privacy/security, and one classroom AV session.
T-8
Ask your district procurement lead what vendor meetings or purchase-order documentation you need before traveling.
T-9
Confirm accessibility needs with the venue and organiser if you require step-free access, captioning, or a quiet room.
T-10
Save proof of registration, ID, and any district travel approval in one folder.
T-11
Plan a follow-up window the week after the conference to share notes with your district team.
T-12
Check your phone plan or set up a US eSIM for data; hotel Wi-Fi is free but venue connectivity may vary.
T-13
Pack business casual clothes; Indianapolis conference dress is practical, not formal.
T-14
Arrange coverage for your help desk or classroom duties while you are out.
Sample visitor itinerary
Route-optimised day
Day 1 · morning
Registration and hall orientation at Crowne Plaza Hotel
Day 2 · core sessions
Supplier meetings and product demos
Day 3 · wrap-up
Final negotiations and follow-up
Networking spots
2HECC Conference 2026 registration concourse
Crowne Plaza Hotel
Central meeting point before and between hall appointments during show days.
Organiser B2B lounge (if offered)
Crowne Plaza Hotel
Hosted matchmaking and buyer programmes when published by the organiser.
Budget
Costs & budget
Build your working budget
Adjust the inputs below to create a directional event budget.
Estimated budget
Live estimate
- Hotel × 2 nights$230.00
- Per diem × 2$150.00
Estimated total$380.00
This is a directional estimate. Please verify live rates before booking.
Decision
Visit, exhibit, or skip?
Should you go?
Use this quick check to decide whether HECC Conference 2026 fits your visit, exhibit or skip plan.
QUESTION 1 OF 6
For HECC Conference 2026, what is your primary role on the show floor?
Decision matrix
Compare participation options side by side to choose the best fit for your objectives.
visit
Your category focus and target suppliers align with the official exhibitor profile.
Best for
Buyers, engineers, and delegates sourcing Learning management systems for K-12 and Interactive classroom technology solutions and benchmarking suppliers at HECC Conference 2026 in Indianapolis.
Min. budget
$500.00
Timeline
4-8 weeks before opening day for registration, hotels, and travel.
Risks
Session times and ticket tiers may change - confirm the official agenda before booking.
exhibit
You have a defined lead-generation or distributor recruitment goal for this market.
Best for
Brands and manufacturers launching Learning management systems for K-12 and Interactive classroom technology products who need qualified meetings with the event's trade audience.
Min. budget
$2,250.00
Timeline
3-6 months for stand booking, freight, staffing, and pre-show marketing.
Risks
Booth pricing and corner premiums vary by hall - confirm with the organiser sales team.
skip
Audience, geography, or commercial goals do not justify travel and stand costs this cycle.
Best for
Teams with weak category fit, budget constraints, or overlapping commitments during the Indianapolis show week.
Timeline
N/A
Risks
Skipping may mean missing buyer meetings if competitors exhibit or attend the same week.
Gallery
Photos
FAQs & glossary
Answers
Frequently asked
Glossary
- LMS (Learning Management System)
- The platform a district uses to deliver courses, assignments, assessments, and feedback. At HECC, LMS sessions typically focus on how Canvas, Schoology, Google Classroom, or similar systems connect to student information and identity tools.
- SIS (Student Information System)
- The district system of record for enrollment, scheduling, grades, attendance, and state reporting. SIS interoperability and data quality are recurring concerns for Indiana district technology teams.
- LTI (Learning Tools Interoperability)
- A standard that lets external tools launch inside an LMS with rosters and grades passed securely. Districts use LTI to avoid separate logins and manual grade entry.
- OneRoster
- A standards-based format for exchanging roster, course, and grade data between an SIS and edtech applications. It reduces custom integrations when a district adds new tools.
- SSO (Single Sign-On)
- A login model that lets staff and students use one district identity to access many applications. SSO is usually paired with MFA and role-based access controls.
- MDM (Mobile Device Management)
- Software for configuring, securing, and wiping Chromebooks, iPads, and Windows devices across a school fleet. MDM policy also covers app installation, filtering, and lost-device recovery.
- E-rate
- The FCC schools and libraries program that subsidizes eligible broadband and internal network services. Indiana districts use E-rate planning cycles to fund Wi-Fi, fiber, and network upgrades.
- CIPA
- The Children's Internet Protection Act, which conditions certain federal funding on school internet safety policies and technology protection measures. Districts typically address CIPA through filtering and digital citizenship policies.
- FERPA
- The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act, the federal law governing access to and disclosure of student education records. Edtech contracts and data-sharing agreements must account for FERPA obligations.
- COPPA
- The Children's Online Privacy Protection Act, which limits how online services collect personal information from children under 13. Districts ask vendors for COPPA-compliant consent and data-retention practices.
- UDL (Universal Design for Learning)
- A planning framework that gives students multiple ways to engage, access content, and demonstrate learning. UDL often drives accessibility requirements in district edtech purchases.
- MTSS (Multi-Tiered System of Supports)
- A framework for matching academic, behavioral, and social-emotional supports to student needs. District teams use data dashboards and intervention platforms to manage MTSS workflows.
- Formative assessment
- Low-stakes checks during instruction that tell teachers what students know before a summative test. HECC sessions often compare classroom response, quiz, and dashboard tools.
- 1:1 device program
- A district model in which every student is assigned a computing device, usually a Chromebook, iPad, or Windows laptop. 1:1 programs drive MDM, repair, filtering, and home-connectivity decisions.
- Digital citizenship
- Instruction that helps students use technology safely, ethically, and responsibly. Districts pair digital citizenship curricula with acceptable-use policies and incident reporting.
- Interoperability
- The ability of systems such as SIS, LMS, assessment, and identity platforms to exchange data without manual work. Interoperability standards reduce integration cost and data errors.
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Also known as
Alternate names and search phrases for this event.
- HECC Conference 2026 Indianapolis
- HECC Conference Indianapolis 2026
- HECC 2026
- HECC Indianapolis 2026
- Indianapolis United States
- Education Indianapolis 2026
- Education Conference Indianapolis
- Learning management systems for K-12
Digital business cards for the show floor
Display a free company card at your booth, or share your professional card on the show floor.