Welcome to Fire-Rescue International (FRI) 2026

Each summer, thousands of the most prominent fire and emergency service leaders come to FRI to learn, network, and collaborate. Make sure you are one of them!

For more than 150 years, fire and emergency service leaders have gathered to exchange ideas, challenge the status quo, and advance the profession. What began in 1873 as a meeting to share innovations and improve fire department operations has grown into the premier leadership conference for the fire and EMS community.

Fire-Rescue International is where the future of the fire service takes shape.

Hosted by the International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC), FRI brings together thousands of chiefs, officers, and industry leaders from across the world for an unmatched experience in leadership, education, innovation, and connection.

Special Events at FRI

Experience More Than Ever Before

FRI 2026 features an expanded lineup of special events designed to help you connect, learn, and recharge. Kick off the week at the Kick-Off Party at KC Live!, then gain insights into emerging trends at the Future Focus Lunch. Prioritize your well-being at the Health & Wellness Experience at T-Mobile Center, featuring a 5K walk, yoga, and other activities focused on personal and professional wellness.

Unwind and network at the Happy Hour, then keep the momentum going at the Block Party, where networking, innovation, and the exhibit hall come together in a fun and engaging atmosphere. With more opportunities than ever to connect, collaborate, and celebrate, FRI offers experiences for every attendee—both inside and outside the classroom.

Build your FRI experience by adding special events during registration.

Some events are complimentary, while others require a ticket purchase. Tickets must be purchased in advance. All Access Pass holders receive a ticket to the Kick-Off Party, while Discover Pass attendees may purchase tickets. All Access attendees may also purchase additional tickets for guests. Don’t miss your chance to make the most of your week at FRI 2026.

Discovery Stage at FRI 2026 Call for Submissions

The Discovery Stage is a brand-new feature at FRI 2026, located directly on the Exhibit Hall floor and designed to spotlight bold ideas, emerging technologies, and innovative solutions shaping the future of the fire and emergency service profession.

We invite industry partners, innovators, and thought leaders to apply for one of two exciting presentation opportunities taking place on Wednesday and Thursday during FRI. Please find details below.

Inaugural Shark Tank Sessions

Think your idea has what it takes to stand out? Apply to participate in our inaugural Discovery Stage Shark Tank competition.

Two live Shark Tank sessions will be held:

Wednesday
Thursday

Selected participants will have:

5 minutes to pitch their idea, product, or innovation live on stage
A panel of live judges providing feedback and selecting a winner during each session
The opportunity to showcase their organization in front of FRI attendees and industry leaders

Winners will be announced live immediately following each session.

Submission Fee: $1,500
Participation is subject to IAFC approval.

Submit for Shark Tank

Discovery Stage Spotlight Sessions

Share your expertise in a high-impact, 25-minute presentation designed to educate and engage FRI attendees.

Spotlight Sessions provide a platform for industry innovators and fire service leaders to explore:

Emerging trends
New technologies
Operational innovations
Leadership strategies
Solutions impacting the future of the fire service

Sessions will be held on Wednesday and Thursday on the Discovery Stage within the Exhibit Hall.

Presentation Guidelines:

Presentation length: 25 minutes maximum
Maximum of 2 presenters per session
Open to all Full Conference and Discovery Pass attendees
Sessions are subject to IAFC approval

Participation Fee: $3,000

Submit for a Spotlight Session

Important Information:

All submissions are reviewed and approved by IAFC.
Space is limited, and presentation slots are expected to fill quickly.
Submission does not guarantee acceptance.
Additional speaker logistics and presentation requirements will be shared upon acceptance.

What You'll Experience

At FRI, you will:

Engage in powerful educational sessions led by the most respected voices in the profession
Discover the latest technologies and solutions transforming emergency response
Connect with peers facing the same challenges and opportunities
Gain strategies and insights you can take back to strengthen your department and community

What's New in 2026

Streamlined Exhibit Hall

Now two high-impact days — Wednesday (Noon–6 PM) and Thursday (10 AM–6 PM) for more focused engagement and time for networking, product exploration, and meaningful conversations

Kick-Off Party at KC Live!

Tuesday - Start the week strong at this can’t-miss event sponsored by FirstNet®, Built with AT&T

Discovery Stage

A new show-floor hub featuring live panels, product spotlights, and leadership conversations

Division Gatherings

What were the Division lunches are now Friday morning breakfasts, giving you a fresh way to connect and collaborate

This is where leaders gather. Ideas ignite. And the next chapter of the fire and EMS profession begins. Explore the FRI 2025 recap and watch the video highlights to take a look back at this year’s conference.

Highlights from FRI 2025

FRI 2025 brought the Fire Service Together in Orlando, Florida where more than 5,000 fire and EMS professionals from across the globe gathered in Orlando, Florida, for the 152nd International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC) Fire-Rescue International (FRI) conference. FRI once again proved to be the premier event for fire service leadership, education, and networking, offering attendees the opportunity to learn, connect, and shape the future of our profession.

Learn More

Registration is Open