Guidelines/Program Information
Objective
The Future Leaders program champions diversity and fosters the growth of the next generation of out of home professionals. Selected participants will receive an all-expenses-paid trip to the 2026 OOH Media Conference, where they will engage in sessions, activities, and networking events—an invaluable opportunity to build connections and gain insights that support their career growth. After the conference, they will play an active role in OOH UNITED, contributing to the group’s future initiatives and plans.
Anticipated Outcomes
•Up to ten (10) selected Future Leaders will attend the 2026 OOH Media Conference in Dallas, TX with paid air travel, registration, hotel accommodations, and a stipend for ground transportation.
• Future Leaders will participate in conference breakout sessions, networking events, and main stage programming.
• OOH UNITED Co-Chairs will serve as Future Leader Co-Hosts, guiding them through their conference experience.
What Makes a Future Leader
•Under 40 years of age.
•Must be an OAAA Member.
•Must have at least 3 years OOH experience within any industry sector (i.e., supplier, agency, tech, etc.)
•1st time attendee at the OOH Media Conference.
•Willing to travel and participate in conference activities.
Nominations
Eligible candidates can be self-nominated or be nominated by an experienced industry professional for consideration. Application should be tailored to applicants nominating themselves or advocates nominating another individual. Future Leaders must be approved by candidate’s company.
What to Expect at the 2026 OOH Media Conference
•A Grand Attendance: With over 1,000 expected attendees, together the OOH industry will celebrate successes, growth, and innovation.
•Connect & Collaborate: Network with local, national and global industry leaders, luminaries, speakers, brands, agencies, and media owners.
•Stay Ahead of the Curve: OOH media is constantly evolving across technology, measurement, and data-driven sectors that fuel industry growth.
•The Future of OOH Media: Experience industry insights, share stories and strategies, that shape the future of the OOH industry.
Future Leader Responsibilities: At the Conference
Future Leaders will experience 1:1 networking opportunities, mentoring, support, and inspiration at the media conference. All delegates will be required to actively participate in sessions designed to broaden their understanding about the OOH industry, while at the same time developing their professional skills.
Future Leader Responsibilities: Beyond the Conference
Beyond the conference, Future Leaders will become active members in the OOH UNITED committee, contributing to the group’s meetings, forthcoming plans and initiatives.
Judging Panel
A select expert panel will be responsible for reviewing submissions and determining the 2026 Future Leader delegates.
Winner Notification
Selected winners will receive a congratulatory email following the application deadline, outlining next steps and requesting that they officially opt-in to the Future Leaders program.
Application Deadline: Friday, March 6th at 11:59 PM ET
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