Plan

Netroots Nation 2023 will take place July 13-15 at the Chicago Hilton. A ticket grants you access to more than 100 panels and training sessions, plus keynotes, featured programming, and fun social events throughout the conference. Plus, you’ll get a Netroots Nation T-shirt and other fun swag from our partners.

FAQ

Planning to attend Netroots Nation but have a few questions? Check out the FAQ below and contact us if you have additional questions.

What are your COVID protocols?

We recognize that large gatherings are still unsafe for many. However, a fully masked event is far safer and more inclusive than a mask-optional one. To that end, face masks are required in Netroots Nation rooms when not actively eating, drinking or presenting (though presenters are welcome to keep their masks on if they choose). You can read more about our health and safety plans here.

Why are you requiring masks?

To help make Netroots Nation more inclusive and accessible for all, face masks are required in Netroots Nation rooms when not actively eating, drinking or presenting. Masking is most effective in reducing airborne illness when everyone wears one. Masking is a simple act of love—a sign that the person wearing the mask is considering the needs of others, especially the high-risk people who have been most impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic and who have undergone the most isolation and trauma.

Should I get my ticket early?

Prices will go up as we get closer to the event, so we do suggest registering early to get the best price. Netroots Nation tickets are fully refundable until 1 month before the event starts. After June 13th, you can still transfer your ticket to another person.

Is there a convention hotel?

While transportation and housing are not included with your registration, we have arranged for a discounted hotel block at the Chicago Hilton. Our hotel blocks do sell out most years, so we recommend reserving your room early. To catch all the action, we recommend arriving Wednesday, July 12, and departing Sunday, July 16. If you’re in town early, our registration desk will be open Wednesday afternoon for you to pick up your credential. Otherwise, you can check in Thursday starting at 8 a.m.

Who goes to Netroots Nation?

Anyone who desires a more progressive and just world is welcome. Our attendees are politicians, online organizers, grassroots activists, and independent media makers. Some are professionals who work at advocacy organizations, progressive companies or labor unions; while others do activism in their spare time. We want Netroots Nation to be an inclusive, positive, collaborative, and safe experience for everyone, so all guests are asked to abide by our community guidelines.

What if I have a disability or special need?

You can find information about onsite and virtual accessibility here. If you have a disability, chronic illness or other special need, email us at help@netrootsnation.org so that we may assist you. Volunteers will also be available at the registration desk to assist with mobility issues or other needs that may arise.

What if I need financial help with registration?

We do our best to keep registration fees as low as possible. Thanks to our great sponsors, the current cost of a ticket is less than half of the true cost of putting on this event. However, we never want finances to keep someone from attending, so we have two programs designed to make sure our registration price is not a barrier to attending. Click here to learn more about our scholarships and volunteer opportunities.

Can I attend virtually?


Additional Questions

See below for some other questions we have gotten over the years that you may have as well.  Have a question not addressed here? Contact us with questions and we’ll respond as soon as we’re able.

How do I convince my employer to send me?
Want to go but need to get approval from your boss? Click here for information and resources you can use to make your case.

Is there a reduced rate for students/youth?
Yes! We offer a limited number of reduced-cost youth registrations. You can find the registration options here.

How are your session/speakers chosen?
The majority of our content is created by and for our community. Anyone can submit a proposal for a panel or training. Each year, subcommittees of over 100 community members score the submissions based on quality, timeliness, diversity, and other factors. For more information on submitting a session, click here.

Do speakers have to pay for a ticket?
With around 400 speakers and trainers each year, we do ask speakers to purchase a ticket. However, registration scholarships are available for those who need assistance so that cost doesn’t keep important voices from being heard.

Where can I see the agenda?
We’ve posted an overview schedule of each day to give you an idea of the flow of the conference. The complete schedule will be released in early May.

Will there be any pre-convention content this year?
Most years, our partners offer pre-convention events on various topics, usually on the Wednesday before Netroots Nation kicks off. We announce any pre-conference events or other programming outside of the main convention dates as soon as we know about them so that you can make plans to attend.

This all seems like a lot of work, can I help?
Absolutely! This convention wouldn’t happen without all of our great volunteers. Volunteering is also a great way to meet other attendees (and have a ton of fun!). If you are interested in volunteering, sign up here.

Is there a convention app?
Yes! It is available for all registered attendees. The app allows you to connect with sponsors, speakers and attendees; create your own personal conference schedule, watch recorded content, and more.

Is food included in my ticket?
We provide limited amounts of food and drinks during select events throughout the convention, and many of our sponsors provide coffee and snack breaks as well. However, you should plan on taking care of most meals on your own.

When and where do I get my T-shirt and tote bag?
You can pick up your shirt and bag starting Thursday morning at the Netroots Nation booth inside the Town Square.

What should I wear?
You will find a wide array of fashion choices at Netroots Nation. Elected officials and candidates may wear suits but most attendees go for smart casual—or whatever makes them feel confident and comfortable. Our event venues tend to be chilly, so we suggest layers or bringing a light jacket and we also recommend wearing comfy shoes. Also don’t forget to check the local weather for the week.

Are payments made to Netroots Nation tax-deductible?
Payments for registration fees and sponsorships made to Netroots Nation, a California 501(c)4 corporation, are not tax-deductible. However, if you would like to make a tax-deductible donation to support all the work we do, please consider a generous donation to Netroots Foundation.

How do I make sure I don’t miss announcements about programming and other events?
Make sure you’re on our email list so you get announcements about our agenda, keynote speakers, and other special announcements. And be sure to follow us on Facebook and Twitter.