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Compete Sports Announces 2028 Summer sports Business Conference in Kalamazoo, Michigan to further Sports For All™

KALAMAZOO, MI – Compete Sports is proud to announce that its highly anticipated 2028 Summer Business Growth Conference will take place June 14-16, 2028, at the Radisson Plaza Hotel & Suites in Kalamazoo, Michigan. Hosted in partnership with Discover Kalamazoo, this premier event will unite sports organizers, tourism professionals, and corporate and community partners to advance Compete’s vision of Sports For All™.

The conference is designed to connect industry leaders with meaningful opportunities, offering cutting-edge strategies, expert-led sessions, and invaluable networking experiences to drive business success and innovation. Compete Sports connects, educates, empowers and inspires mission-driven and allied sports and community leaders, sports organizations, non-profit groups, tourism partners, corporate partners and athletes to further Sports For All™ through membership, media and event platforms.

Compete Sports CEO, Eric Carlyle, shared his excitement about the event stating, “We selected Kalamazoo to host our 2028 Business Growth Conference because of the city's commitment to welcoming sports organizers, athletes, and fans from all backgrounds. This vibrant and inclusive atmosphere allows us to create a dynamic conference experience that fosters growth, collaboration, and meaningful connections."

The Radisson Plaza Hotel & Suites, located in the heart of downtown Kalamazoo, will serve as the hub of conference activities. As a premier venue, it offers top-tier accommodations and amenities, ensuring a world-class experience for attendees.

Sports organizers will get a first-class tour of Kalamazoo’s sports and social scene including venues such as the Kalamazoo Event & Athletic Performance Center, Western Michigan University Campus & Downtown Kalamazoo outdoor pedestrian mall. The Kalamazoo community recently earned a Municipal Equality Index (MEI) Score of 100 which climbed from 86 in 2023 and 74 in 2022. This is an important factor that notes the degree to which cities support their LGBTQ+ community. A score of 100 showcases how inclusive Kalamazoo is with municipal laws, policies, and services.

“Discover Kalamazoo is excited to host the 2028 Compete Summer Business Growth Conference as part of our ongoing efforts to welcome a diverse range of event organizers and grow our local sports tourism industry,” said Brian Persky, Director of Business Development for Discover Kalamazoo. “By showcasing new and upcoming facilities like the downtown event center and planned indoor youth sports facility, we aim to foster new partnerships and attract fresh, inclusive sports events to our community. This conference aligns perfectly with our commitment to collaboration, diversity, and creating opportunities that support both local and visiting athletes, organizers, and fans."

For more information on the 2028 Compete Summer Business Growth Conference, visit competenetwork.com.

Discover Kalamazoo Sports is part of Discover Kalamazoo, the official destination marketing organization for Kalamazoo County, with a vision of sharing Kalamazoo with everyone. Discover Kalamazoo’s mission is to attract and wow visitors for the economic advancement of the county. The Discover Kalamazoo team works to market Kalamazoo County as a destination for leisure travelers, meetings, and sports events, connecting planners with local businesses and providing information and resources to both visitors and residents. For more information, please visit DiscoverKalamazoo.com.