The Ultimate Guide to Preparing Your Invention for a Trade Show

Exhibiting your invention at a trade show can be a game-changer. Those who arrive prepared see better success and ROI. Proper planning, presentation, and follow-up are essential to make the most of your time on the show floor.

• Set clear goals: Decide whether your focus is licensing, partnerships, pre-sales, or market feedback.
• Book booth space early: Ensure you get a high-traffic location.
• Prepare materials: Business cards, product brochures, banners, and digital presentations. Be sure to learn about Colleqt and the Lead Manager App, a state-of-the-art event tool that will help you track progress and collect leads during the show.
• Team preparation: Decide who will be staffing the booth and train them to communicate the value of your invention.

• Functional prototypes: Ensure your product works reliably for demonstrations.
• Visual appeal: Consider polished models or renderings if the prototype isn’t fully functional.
• Backup plan: Bring extra parts, videos, or slides in case of technical issues.
• Testing: Conduct dry runs to ensure smooth, consistent presentations.

• Fill out your Exhibitor Profile: The NHS online exhibitor list is the most visited page on the event website! Don’t miss out on valuable pre-show exposure. Make sure to make your profile as up to date as possible to give buyers the most information as they plan their show days. 
• Leverage social media: Announce your participation and product on LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, X, or relevant inventor forums. 
  • TIP: Take advantage of your FREE customer invitations with ready-made graphics.
• Highlight unique value: Focus on what makes your invention innovative and why buyers should care.
• Press opportunities: Consider press releases or local media mentions about your invention and event participation. Drop off a press kit at the NHS Press Lounge when you arrive on-site and look out for our online media center closer to the show. 

• Design for attraction: Use clear signage, engaging visuals, and an organized layout.
• Interactive demos: Let attendees try your product or see it in action.
• Lead capture: Display your Colleqt QR sign at your booth and utilize the complimentary Lead Manager App, a revolutionary show tool that will help you take notes and collect leads during the show,
• Elevator pitch: Prepare a concise 30-second explanation highlighting the problem your invention solves.

• Your pitch should be concise, clear, and tailored to your audience:
• Elevator pitch: 30–60 seconds explaining your product, its problem-solving value, and target market.
• USP (Unique Selling Proposition): Highlight what makes your product stand out from competitors.
• Call-to-action: Invite buyers, investors, or collaborators to schedule a follow-up or request more information.
• Practice: Rehearse with friends, mentors, or UIA representatives to gain confidence and refine delivery.

• Follow-up promptly: Contact leads within 48 hours to maintain momentum. You can easily access your leads in your Exhibitor Hub.
• Evaluate performance: Review what worked, which presentations resonated, and where improvements can be made.
  
• Iterate your prototype: Use feedback to enhance your product before next shows or investor meetings.
• Track ROI: Measure contacts made, meetings held, and business opportunities generated.

With thoughtful preparation, your invention can stand out, you’ll connect with buyers, and open doors to new opportunities. Start planning now to maximize your success at NHS Concept to Commerce 2026!