Registration opens for 2027 Mega-Conference, the local news industry’s largest gathering

As AI drives the next major shift in our industry, this is an important time to come together. We need to learn from one another, support one another and help shape what comes next. Our industry is stronger when we bring our people, experience and ideas together.”

Dean Ridings, president and CEO, America's Newspapers

Registration is now open for the 2027 Mega-Conference, April 19–21 at Signia by Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek. The largest U.S. conference serving family-owned and independently owned news organizations, the event will bring together owners, publishers, sales leaders and content producers from across the country to explore the opportunities and challenges shaping the local news industry.

Presented by America’s Newspapers and the America’s Newspapers Foundation, with support from major partner organizations, the event will emphasize practical business strategies and the value of coming together across markets, platforms and publishing models.

“Regardless of the platforms we use to publish, we share a common purpose: serving our local communities with quality news,” said Dean Ridings, president and CEO of America’s Newspapers. “As AI drives the next major shift in our industry, this is an important time to come together. We need to learn from one another, support one another and help shape what comes next. Our industry is stronger when we bring our people, experience and ideas together.”

The program will feature multiple tracks focused on:

• Artificial intelligence: Practical applications across finance and reporting, production and distribution, sales, design and AI-assisted reporting, including Next Best Action strategies.
• Revenue: Digital revenue growth, print innovations, newsletter subscriptions and sponsorships, event development and management, and sales training.
• Consumer engagement and revenue: Building stronger audience relationships, deepening loyalty and turning engagement into sustainable consumer revenue.
• Nonprofit models: Organizational structures, sponsorships and funding sources that support sustainable local coverage.
• Content and audiences: Finding and managing content creators, developing audience-driven coverage and expanding into new markets.
• Public policy and advocacy: State and local issues affecting news organizations and strategies for strengthening the industry’s voice.

“The best ideas in our industry get stronger when we share them,” said Pat Dorsey, chair of America’s Newspapers and publisher of The Santa Fe New Mexican. “Mega brings together people who are finding answers and people who are ready to take the next step. You leave with practical ideas, colleagues you can call, and renewed confidence in the work ahead. For business leaders in local news, it’s a must-attend event.”

Leading companies in technologies and solutions will participate as solutions partners, giving attendees access to tools and expertise they can deploy now to grow revenue, improve operations and deliver results.

The program is built for organizations of every size, from small-market and independent publishers to digital news organizations and larger media companies.

Early-bird registration and discounts for teams and multiple attendees from the same organization are available. A discounted conference room rate at the newly renovated Signia by Hilton offers an opportunity to extend the visit and enjoy the resort’s pools, dining, nearby golf, Disney World and Orlando attractions.

Registration and hotel information are available at mega-conference.com.