The Paddlesports Trade Coalition annual industry gathering is heading to Charlotte, North Carolina. The 2025 Colab event will take place October 15-19, in partnership with ACA PaddleFest at the U.S. National Whitewater Center—a world-class venue that will also serve as the site of the American Canoe Association’s 145th anniversary celebration.
The move marks a departure from Oklahoma City, where the Paddlesports Trade Coalition had announced it would host the second annual Colab event this September. Oklahoma City played a central role in hosting the inaugural Colab in 2024, as well as serving as home to the Paddlesports Retailer trade show in 2017, 2018 and 2019.
Colab 2025 will host informational sessions, roundtables, product showcases and on-water demos. By aligning with ACA PaddleFest, the event will expand its scope, attracting a broader audience of instructors, retailers and enthusiasts, according to organizers. Attendees can also look forward to national slalom and kayak cross championships, Swiftwater Rescue Conference, instructor updates and the ACA silent auction.
Registration and full program details will be announced on the Paddlesports Trade Coalition website.
