April 15, 2026 | Chicago, IL
A full day of strategy, creativity, and connection for independent agencies ready to lead the industry forward. Limited to 150 attendees.
Indies Rising: Building an Unfair Advantage for Marketers
After two years of building a next-generation platform for indies, we're bringing leaders together in Chicago for a full day focused on what matters: strategy, great work, and the people driving this industry forward.
This isn't another marketing conference. This is Indies Rising—independent agencies claiming their seat at the table, sharing what's working, and building an incredibly positive force for indies, clients, and marketers.
Open to everyone. IAN members get 25% off.
The Day at a Glance
9:00 AM
Registration & Breakfast
Start your day with coffee, breakfast, and networking with fellow indie agency leaders and marketers.
9:50 AM
Welcome & Opening Remarks
Opening remarks to set the stage for the day ahead.
10:00 AM
Session 1: Articulating the Indie Advantage
How to Win When Holding Companies Are Still Winning Too
Let's be honest: plenty of indies are losing pitches to holdcos right now. This session is about understanding how indies win head-to-head. Hear real pitch stories (wins AND losses), learn how to articulate your advantages without sounding generic, and understand the competitive reality.
11:00 AM - Break
11:30 AM
Session 2: Myth Busters: What CMOs Actually Experience
Testing the Claims Indie Agencies Make Against Real Client Experiences
Indie agencies make bold claims: "No corporate politics." "The team you meet is the team you get." "We tell you when something's not working—even if it's our idea." But are these myths or reality? CMOs and brand leaders who've worked with both holding companies and indies react to common indie talking points.
12:30 PM
Lunch + Keynote
The client view
A client-side marketing leader shares what matters when evaluating and working with agency partners. Unfiltered perspective on what works and what doesn't.
1:30 PM
Session 3: What Marketers Really Want from Agency Partners
Building Relationships That Last (From Both Sides of the Table)
Stop guessing what clients want. Hear directly from CMOs and brand leaders who work with agencies every day. This session explores the entire relationship lifecycle: from pitch to partnership to long-term growth.
2:30 PM - Break
3:00 PM
Session 4: Where Brands & Agencies Are Placing Their Bets
Emerging Trends, New Channels & What's Actually Worth Your Investment
Cut through the hype. Marketers and agency leaders share where they're investing time, money and resources in 2025 and beyond—and what they're pulling back on.
4:30 PM
Session 5: Protecting Your Work
IP Protection, Legal Frameworks & Navigating the Celeb/Influencer Space
You create the work. You develop the ideas. But do you own any of it? Learn how to protect your creative work and navigate celebrity/influencer partnerships with legal experts who help agencies avoid landmines every day.
5:30 PM
Show Off Happy Hour, presented by Goodway Group
Celebrating the Work of Independent Agencies
The day ends with great work, great drinks, and great conversation. 12 indie agencies showcase their best work—5 minutes each, no pitch, just pure creative celebration.
7:00 PM
Closing Remarks
The day wraps with a ton of gratitude and next steps as we all prepare for Own It on April 16th.
Reserve Your Spot
85 of 150 Spots Remaining
Limited capacity - register now to secure your place
Early Bird (Until January 30)
$499
Standard Rate (After January 30)
$599
IAN Members get 25% off: $374.25 (early bird) | $449.25 (standard)
Not a member? Join now and save 25%
All deposits are non-refundable.
Questions? Email [email protected]
The Venue
Schafer Condon Carter
176 N Racine Ave, Suite 300
Chicago, IL 60607
Chicago, IL 60607
We're hosting the summit at SCC's office in the heart of Chicago's West Loop—one of the city's most vibrant neighborhoods. Surrounded by incredible restaurants, coffee shops, and culture.
Getting There:
CTA: Morgan stop (Green/Pink lines) - 2 blocks away
Parking: Street parking and garages nearby
Rideshare: Drop-off at 176 N Racine Ave
Easy access from anywhere in the city.