Outdoor Retailer is strengthening its position as the leading B2B platform for the outdoor recreation industry with new initiatives set for its August 2026 event in Minneapolis.
The organization announced a complete Leadership Village, collaborations with Garage Grown Gear and Founded Outdoors, and onsite outdoor experiences designed to inspire innovation, community, and industry growth.
Outdoor Retailer, the premier business-to-business gathering for the North American outdoor industry, revealed a series of initiatives that reflect the show’s evolving focus on innovation, collaboration, and inclusivity ahead of its move to Minneapolis in 2026.
The event, scheduled for August 19–21, 2026, will introduce a complete Leadership Village, the Garage Grown Gear + Founded Outdoors Campsite Pavilion, and early-morning outdoor experiences celebrating Minnesota’s active culture.
Co-led by athlete and Summit Scholarship founder Sunny Stroeer and industry veteran Paul Gagner, the newly announced Leadership Village brings together voices from across the outdoor ecosystem to help guide the next generation of business leadership.
The lineup includes Chris Nance, senior director of product development and sourcing for packs and equipment at Cotopaxi; Stephen Regenold, founder of Gear Junkie; Tyrhee Moore, founder of Soul Trak Outdoors; Xavier Abdullah, Minneapolis-based climbing coach and community catalyst; Becky Philipp-Kranig, owner of Bearcub Outfitters; and Chris Goddard, founder and CEO of CGPR.
“There needs to be a place where ideas, creativity, and community can come together and collectively shape the future of the outdoor industry,” Nance said in a press release.
“A refreshed Outdoor Retailer can become that place. I’m looking forward to contributing to the Leadership Village and helping this platform amplify the voices of emerging brands and established leaders,” Nance added.
Previously announced members include Dana Caraway of Caraway & Co., Mike Massey of Locally, Peter Sachs, former general manager of LOWA Boots, and professional climber Sasha DiGiulian. Together, they will help guide the evolution of Outdoor Retailer through mentorship and strategic insight.
Outdoor Retailer is also establishing an advisory panel composed of outdoor community members who will assist in curating the event’s future direction, reinforcing its goal of becoming an inclusive space for diverse industry voices.
In partnership with Garage Grown Gear (GGG) and Founded Outdoors, the event will also debut the Ascent Summit on August 19, 2026, bringing together more than 200 founders of independent and specialty outdoor brands.
The summit will include panels, workshops, and discussions focused on driving progress in brand development, sustainability, and entrepreneurship, capped with a tour of GGG’s St. Paul headquarters.
Extending the partnership onto the show floor, the GGG + Founded Outdoors Campsite Pavilion will feature 50 to 100 small and medium-sized retail-ready brands showcasing innovative products and creative storytelling.
“Outdoor Retailer is creating the space for what’s next, a place where innovation, creativity, and connection come together to move our industry forward,” said Lloyd Vogel, CEO of Garage Grown Gear.
Emily Holland, community manager at Founded Outdoors, added, “Founded Outdoors is inspired by the evolution of Outdoor Retailer and its commitment to creating more opportunities and value for small businesses at this iconic event.”
To highlight Minnesota’s outdoor culture, Outdoor Retailer will host “Celebrate Minnesota Outdoors” on August 20 and 21, 2026. Attendees can join guided activities such as climbing, biking, and trail running led by local outfitters, brand partners, and professional athletes.