NIHC Summit
September 16–18, 2026
Fashion Institute of Technology · New York City
Seed to Style
Conference Agenda

Two days of programming, extended networking.

5:30 pm – 7:30 pm
Welcome Reception

Networking, introductions, and summit kickoff

RECEPTION
8:00 am
Registration
REGISTRATION
8:00 am – 8:30 am
Morning Refreshments
BREAK
8:30 am – 9:00 am
Opening Remarks
KEYNOTE
9:00 am – 10:15 am
Federal & Policy Landscape
PANEL
10:30 am – 12:00 pm
Global Perspectives
PANEL
12:00 pm
Networking Lunch
LUNCH
1:30 pm
Banking & Investment
PANEL
3:00 pm – 3:15 pm
Coffee Break
BREAK
3:15 pm – 5:00 pm
Association Partners

Cotton Inc., Leather and Hide, Linen and Flax

PANEL
8:00 am
AM Refreshments
BREAK
8:30 am – 10:00 am
Global Perspectives II

South America, U.S., South Asia

PANEL
10:15 am – 12:00 pm
Textile Innovation Panel

NC State, Cotton Inc., IND Hemp

PANEL
12:00 pm
Networking Lunch
LUNCH
1:30 pm – 3:00 pm
Private Sector Leadership

Industry & Innovation

PANEL
3:00 pm – 3:15 pm
Coffee Break
BREAK
3:15 pm – 4:15 pm
Academia & Workforce Development
GENERAL
4:15 pm – 5:30 pm
Indigenous Voices
GENERAL
6:00 pm
Reception: “Bill Hawks” Award Ceremony + Fashion Showcase
RECEPTION
9:00 am – 12:30 pm
FIT & Garment District Tour

Optional Activities, separate registration required

GENERAL