Welcome to the IDA submissions portal. Here you will find links to submit projects, proposals, and applications. For any submission, you can always save, exit and return to your work at a later time. To begin, please select the category in which you wish to submit. Note, you will need to create a Submittable account (or login to an existing account), which is separate from your IDA account.
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Submit to 2026 IDA + CDA Place Matters Long Beach, CA

IDA + CDA Place Matters in Long Beach, CA hosted in partnership between the International Downtown Association, California Downtown Association and Downtown Long Beach Alliance on March 10-12, 2026.  IDA and CDA are excited to announce that our in-person spring forum has a new name -IDA + CDA Place Matters.  This event will still feature the same great content and experiences you have come to expect from our yearly spring forum.  We look forward to seeing you in Long Beach in March 2026!

The conference program will explore economic development strategies, operations and placemaking best practices, communication initiatives, and the use of technology in urban place management.

Come prepared to network with peers and engage in meaningful dialogue to support the development of downtown and neighborhood districts.  Be inspired by industry experts, visionary strategies, transformative discussions and practical insights that will empower  you to drive positive change in your district. 

We invite you to submit session proposals by Thursday, August 28, 2025.

Submission details and topic guidelines are below.
Forum sessions should fit within the following topic areas listed:

  • Economic Development strategies
  • Public Space Management and Operations which includes Placemaking, and Activations, Public Safety, Mental Health, and Homelessness. 
  • Marketing, Communications and Events
  • Policy and Advocacy
  • Organizational Management and Leadership Development

Joint proposals including peers from multiple cities will be given higher priority for consideration. 

If you need assistance please contact Carolyn Dellutri, CAE, CMSM, CTP, Director of Professional Development at carolyn@downtown.org

Deadline: Thursday, August 28, 2026 at 11:59PM ET. To get started, please complete the form below. You can stop, save and return to your work at any time before the deadline. When you've completed the form, please click 'Submit' at the bottom.

Please remember that speakers are required to register for the conference. Options for daily registration will be available.

Note:  Submitting a panel session does not guarantee selection. IDA and CDA reserve the right to select submissions and speakers to fit the needs of our diverse audience.  

IDA