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Do you have great new product that will help pet parents help their pets live their best lives? Then we want to help you hit the market through distribution! Put yourself into the fast lane for success by applying to present at Pitchfest 2026.
This premier opportunity for emerging pet product brands debuted at the 2025 Pet Industry Leadership Summit. A bigger, better Pitchfest will be back by popular demand in 2026.
We invite everyone who attends the 2026 Leadership Summit — distributors, manufacturers and retailers alike — to be the first to see a select group of up-and-coming brands showcase what just may be the industry’s next “must-have” products in a quick and easygoing setting.
We have scheduled Pitchfest 2026 so as not to interfere with other programming. Pitches are limited to 10 minutes, including Q&A. A networking reception will follow. You won’t want to miss this!
New brands seeking to sell to independent retailers through distribution may apply. New brands currently working with one or two distributors and looking to expand their distribution network will also be considered. You don’t need to be a member of APPA, PIDA or WPA to apply. A committee of PIDA Distributor Board members will review all applicants in the order that they are received —so apply ASAP!
Along with submitting your Pitchfest application, you must register to attend the Leadership Summit. As a Pitchfest participant, you’ll get a discount fee of $999, which will be refunded if you are not selected to present. We will let you know either way no later than Nov. 17, two weeks after the Nov. 3 application deadline.
Presentation Guidelines
A projector will be provided for presentations if needed. Presenters are limited to one (1) product sample and one (1) marketing handout. No banners, booths or large signs will be permitted.
Practical Steps for Launching a Successful Distribution Partnership
To help you make your pitch perfect, PIDA has outlined a New Manufacturer Checklist with step-by-step instructions to guide you through the process of launching a successful distribution partnership. Check it out here. And good luck!
Please contact Nina Bull with questions.