The countdown is on! In just a few weeks, insurance professionals from across Maryland will gather on Kent Island for the 2026 Big I Maryland Annual Conference & Showcase.
Whether you’re attending for the first time or joining us again, we’ve answered some of the most frequently asked questions to help you prepare for a successful and enjoyable conference experience.
When is the Conference?
The 2026 Big I Maryland Annual Conference & Showcase will be held August 26-27, 2026, at the Hyatt Place Kent Narrows & Marina on beautiful Kent Island.
Over two days, you’ll have the opportunity to:
- Earn continuing education credits (pending approval)
- Learn from industry experts
- Network with fellow insurance professionals
- Explore the Cruise & Connect Showcase
- Discover new products, services, and technology designed for independent agencies
Can I still register?
Yes! Registration is open through August 20.
Full Conference
- Members | $150 / Non-Members | $200
Single Day Registration (Day 1)
- Members | $100 / Non-Members | $125
Single Day Registration (Day 2)
- Members | $75 / Non-Members | $100
We encourage you to register before the deadline so you don’t miss out!
The hotel room block is sold out. Where can I stay?
Our conference room block at the Hyatt Place Kent Narrows & Marina is officially sold out. If you still need accommodations, there are several nearby hotels within walking distance or a short drive of the conference venue.
- Best Western Kent Narrows Inn
- 3101 Main St, Grasonville, MD 21638
- 0.2 miles – 2 min drive, 5 min walk
We recommend booking your accommodations as soon as possible.
Looking for Things to Do on Kent Island?
If you’re arriving early, staying after the conference, or simply looking for a great place to eat, Kent Island has plenty to offer. Enjoy waterfront restaurants, fresh local seafood, shopping, parks, and scenic views while you’re visiting Maryland’s Eastern Shore.
For recommendations on local dining, attractions, and things to do during your stay, visit I Love Kent Island. Take some time to explore everything Kent Island has to offer while you’re here!
What is the Cruise & Connect Showcase?
One of the highlights of the Annual Conference is the Cruise & Connect Showcase. This year’s showcase features 19 participating vendors, representing insurance carriers, technology providers, staffing professionals, financial institutions, wholesalers, and other industry partners.
Whether you’re looking to expand your carrier relationships, discover new agency technology, learn about staffing solutions, or explore products and services that can help your agency grow, you’ll find it all in one place.
Be sure to make time to visit the Cruise & Connect Showcase on Wednesday, August 26th (2:30PM-4PM)!
What Should I Wear?
We want you to feel comfortable while looking polished and professional. For men, appropriate attire includes casual pants such as khakis paired with a collared shirt or golf shirt. For women, options include a casual dress or sundress, or casual pants or a skirt paired with a blouse or sweater.
Business casual attire is appropriate throughout the conference. Meeting rooms can sometimes be cool, so bringing a light sweater or jacket is recommended.
Will there be networking opportunities?
Yes! The Annual Conference offers numerous opportunities to connect with fellow independent agents, company representatives, speakers, sponsors, and vendors. Many of the most valuable conversations happen between sessions and during the Cruise & Connect Showcase, making networking one of the biggest benefits of attending.
Vendor & Sponsorship Opportunities
The response to this year’s Cruise & Connect Showcase has been outstanding. Vendor booth opportunities are officially sold out, and we’re excited to welcome 19 participating vendors to this year’s conference. Although exhibitor space is no longer available, there are still a limited number of conference sponsorship opportunities available.
To learn more, visit bigimd.com/annual/sponsor-vendor or contact Kyrsten Langford at kyrsten@bigimd.com.
We Can’t Wait to Welcome You
The 2026 Big I Maryland Annual Conference & Showcase is more than just an educational event. It’s an opportunity to learn from industry leaders, build meaningful connections, discover innovative solutions, and spend time with the independent insurance community.
If you haven’t registered yet, there’s still time, but don’t wait too long. Conference registration closes August 20.
Ready to join us? Register today at bigimd.com/annual.
For additional information or questions:
Our Events Team is here to help with any questions you may have. For support, contact our team at events@bigimd.com and we will be happy to assist you!