Spotlighting Big Ideas in Play: Why Global Toy Professionals Should Take the Stage at Toy Fair University
Each year, Toy Fair® (taking place February 14-17, 2026) draws thousands of toy professionals from around the world to New York City for four days of business-building, trendspotting, and networking. But beyond the show’s booths and product reveals is another valuable platform: Toy Fair University — a curated educational program that gives international toy companies a powerful stage to share their insights and influence the future of play.
A core feature of the show experience, Toy Fair University delivers programming curated to fuel business strategy and out-of-the-box thinking. Each session offers real-world insights and practical knowledge across the industry’s most pressing topics, from supply chains, retail and consumer trends, and marketing tactics to emerging technology, sustainability, and the evolving definition of play.
“Toy Fair University is a powerful forum for the global toy and licensing communities to share strategic insights, explore brand-building opportunities, and engage in cross-market dialogue,” said Kimberly Carcone, executive vice president of global market events at The Toy AssociationÔ, producer of Toy Fair. “Whether you’re expanding a brand into new regions or exploring fresh partnership models, Toy Fair University sessions can help spark the kinds of ideas and connections that drive long-term value and global growth.”
A Global Audience, A Global Opportunity
The 2025 program featured a wide array of sessions from global leaders and innovators:
- The application of AI and machine learning in toy development and marketing
- Cultural trends driving regional toy demand
- Next-generation licensing strategies
- Sustainability’s role in product development and brand trust
- Inclusive design practices and global consumer expectations
Each session brought fresh thinking to a diverse audience, drawing buyers, inventors, media, and brand executives seeking actionable insights to guide their business decisions. Recordings of Toy Fair 2025 sessions are now available for viewing.
As the 2026 program takes shape, The Toy Association is calling on global voices to contribute. Topics of interest include — but are not limited to — technology and digital transformation, changing retail models, cultural shifts in play and toy purchasing behaviors, and new models for collaboration across international markets.
“We’re actively looking for speakers who can connect dots between disciplines, and provide actionable takeaways,” said Carcone. “Whether it’s a licensing success story in Latin America or a lesson from testing new retail formats in Europe, we want perspectives that add dimension and value to the global conversation.”
What Makes a Winning Proposal?
Toy Fair University does not accept promotional pitches or product demos. Instead, the team is seeking clear, compelling proposals that share unique insights, lived experience, and research-based knowledge. Strong applications can explain not only what the presenter will discuss, but why it matters to the international toy community.
The 2026 program will prioritize sessions that:
- Offer original thinking on emerging trends
- Highlight innovative partnerships or case studies
- Address global challenges or regulatory considerations
- Explore the intersection of play with broader societal issues (e.g., inclusion, climate, digital safety)
Submissions should articulate how the proposed topic supports industry advancement and what practical value it will bring to the audience.
“The best sessions answer a question the industry hasn’t figured out yet—or help reframe a familiar challenge in a new way,” added Carcone.
Build Your Influence at Toy Fair
For international toy professionals aiming to grow their footprint, Toy Fair University is an ideal platform to demonstrate thought leadership. It also offers presenters increased visibility through Toy Fair’s promotional channels, including show materials, digital marketing, and media coverage.
For those chosen, the benefits extend well beyond the podium. Many past presenters report long-term business gains stemming from the connections and visibility earned at Toy Fair.
Importantly, speaking at Toy Fair University doesn’t require being an exhibitor. The program is open to all qualified professionals with relevant expertise and fresh ideas to share.
Ready to Apply?
Interested applicants must submit their session proposals by August 22, 2025. Speakers will be selected and notified by October 1. Detailed submission criteria, topic guidance, and the online application form can be found at ToyFairNY.com.
As play becoming more global, inclusive, and tech-driven than ever, the conversations happening at Toy Fair University matter not only for show attendees but for the future of the industry.
Toy Fair® will take place February 14 to 17, 2026 at the Javits Center in New York City. Attendee registration will open in October. Visit ToyFairNY.com to learn more.
