Event Set for October 12–14, 2026 at The Westin La Paloma Resort & Spa
Following a standout inaugural year that brought together leading pickleball operators, franchisors, investors and suppliers, Pickleball Innovators is proud to announce the 2026 Pickleball Innovators Summit will take place October 12–14, 2026, at The Westin La Paloma Resort & Spa in Tucson, Arizona.
The Summit’s first year exceeded expectations, offering an intimate forum for candid conversations, real-world problem-solving, and meaningful relationship building across all corners of the fast-growing pickleball industry. Attendees praised the event’s curated format, high-value content and open exchange of ideas.
“Our first Summit confirmed something powerful — this industry is hungry for a place where leaders can speak honestly, learn collaboratively and shape the direction of pickleball together,” said Rachel Chonko, the editor in chief of Pickleball Innovators. “We are thrilled to offer this event again in 2026 and continue supporting operators, founders, partners and decision-makers who are building the future of the sport.”
Attendees Called the 2025 Summit “Outstanding” and “Incredibly Valuable”
Participants from the 2025 Summit highlighted its impact on their businesses and the broader industry:
“The Pickleball Innovators Summit got my brain firing in all the right directions. It spurred me to think more deeply about areas of the business that are all too easy to ignore or push off to another day. I highly recommend the Summit for any operator seeking to ensure their business is optimized for the future.” — Mitch Dunn, Founder, The Pickle Lodge
“What an incredible experience at the 2025 Pickleball Innovators Summit. It was an amazing opportunity for facility owners, franchisors and franchisees to connect, collaborate and share ideas driving the fastest-growing sport in America.” — Jeff Raelson, Pickleballerz
“The biggest takeaway was the sense of community here — the sharing of ideas and the realization that the industry as a whole is now aligned in the same direction: growing pickleball, growing membership and working together. It’s that rising-tide-lifts-all-boats perspective. The venue was great, everything was well organized, and it was wonderful catching up with people in the industry. I’d highly recommend coming to it.” — Will Richards, CEO, Dill Dinkers
These insights reflect a broader theme echoed throughout the event: the pickleball industry is eager for high-level peer connection, strategic collaboration and trusted education to navigate rapid expansion.
About the 2026 Summit
The 2026 Pickleball Innovators Summit will again feature:
- Strategic sessions focused on customer acquisition and retention, emerging revenue opportunities, leadership and trend predictions
- Facilitated networking with peers and vendors
- A carefully curated, intentional and premier experience
With attendance capped to maintain the Summit’s high-touch format, the event is designed for owners, founders, executives and decision-makers seeking to elevate both their business and the broader industry.
To reserve your spot at the 2026 Pickleball Innovators Summit as an attendee or sponsor, email rachel@peakemedia.com or visit peakemediaevents.com/pbisummit to learn more.
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With over a decade spent covering the business side of sports and fitness, Rachel Chonko brings a wealth of experience and a true passion for active communities to Peake Media. As Editor-in-Chief, she’s focused on helping pickleball clubs and fitness facilities thrive, from guiding growth strategies to showcasing the latest industry trends. Rachel also hosts the Club Solutions Magazine Podcast, where she interviews leaders in fitness and pickleball to share insights and success stories with the wider community to give her listeners a competitive edge.
After taking up pickleball herself, Rachel has come to appreciate the sport’s unique blend of social connection and active living — a mix that’s perfectly in line with her editorial philosophy. Connect with her on LinkedIn, or check out her articles below for a deep dive into the energy and culture driving pickleball’s rapid rise.
