Registration
is Open

Register Now

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. 

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 Wednesday and Thursday during FRI. Please find details below.

Inaugural Shark Tank Sessions

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

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 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
FRIexpo_400x260

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!
FRI Kickoff Party

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

Discovery Stage
FRI Division Breakfast

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

Division Gatherings
FRI Division Breakfast

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 25 Recap
 

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