The American Glamping Association Pre-Show Workshops
(Sept. 29)
No matter where you are in your glamping journey, the AGA Pre-Show Workshop
offers the knowledge and insights to grow your business.
Expert Strategies and Best Practices Await You At The Glamping Show Americas
Pre-Show Workshops Presented by The American Glamping Association and Glamping Show Americas
Glamping Show Americas and the American Glamping Association will present two half-day programs covering some of the most sought-after information for new and established glamping operators. You’ll hear from industry experts about how to turn your glamping aspirations into a viable business, and how to secure the start-up or expansion funding you need.
Whether you’re launching your first venture or looking to refine your existing business, the path to success is filled with countless details, challenges, and opportunities. This workshop is essential for those new to business ownership and valuable for entrepreneurs seeking to fine-tune their operations, optimize growth, and sharpen their business acumen.
Here’s the 2025 speaker lineup and pre-show agenda.
Monday, September 29, 2025
8:00am-12:00pm
(followed by a box lunch – included)
Glamping Investment And Funding Strategies
Securing the right funding is crucial to launching or expanding your glamping business. This half day brings together industry experts and leaders who have successfully navigated the investment and development landscape. Gain insights into proven fundraising strategies, key financial considerations, and common pitfalls to avoid. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to scale, these sessions will equip you with the knowledge and tools to develop the strategy you will need to create an operation destined for long-term success.
Navigating Loans & Lending: How Operators Secured Glamping Capital
Financing a glamping business can be a complex journey, but securing the right loan can make all the difference. In this panel discussion, hear firsthand from successful glamping operators who have navigated the lending process, from SBA loans to private financing. They’ll share their experiences, challenges, and key lessons learned in securing debt to fund and grow their businesses. Gain practical insights into loan application strategies, lender expectations, and financial best practices to help you confidently pursue funding for your own glamping venture.
Panelists: Ann-Tyler & Brian Konradi (Founders of The Yurtopian)
The Business of Glamping: What Investors Want to See Before Investing in a Property
Join Matt Gaghen, CEO of Under Canvas, and Caitlan Cullen, VP of Real Estate at Under Canvas, for an inside look at what investors are looking for when considering a glamping property acquisition. From key financial metrics to site selection and operational efficiencies, this session will provide valuable insights into how to position your property for long-term success and investment appeal. Whether you’re looking to sell, scale, or attract funding, this discussion will equip you with the knowledge to make your glamping business more attractive to investors.
Speakers: Matt Gaghen (CEO Under Canvas) Caitlan Cullen (VP, Real Estate- Under Canvas)
Expert Perspectives on Raising Capital for Glamping Ventures
Join Peter Mack, Founder of Collective Retreats, as he shares expert perspectives on raising capital for glamping ventures. With a wealth of experience in building and scaling innovative outdoor hospitality brands, Peter will provide valuable insights into securing funding, attracting investors, and navigating the financial landscape of the glamping industry. Whether you’re launching a new retreat or expanding an existing one, this session will equip you with the strategies and knowledge to successfully fund your glamping business. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from a leader who has redefined luxury outdoor experiences.
Speaker: Peter Mack (Founder Collective Retreats)
DIY Exit Strategy: How One Founder Sold Her Glamping Business
Speaker: To be confirmed
1:00 pm – 4:00 pm
(preceded by a box lunch—from 12:00 am-1:00 pm—included)
Glamping Business Basics
Start-up to up-and-running, whatever your level of experience, there are what seems like a million details at which you must be proficient. Here you’ll hear about some of the elements you’ll face when getting your business up and running, stay running and grow. Hear from experts in their fields and those who have labored—and succeeded—with start-ups of their own. Learn from their experience. Be inspired by their journeys.This workshop is important if you are new to the business or would like to “tune-up” your business practices.
The Evolution of Outdoor Stays: Merging Traditional Camping with Glamping for Long-Term Success
As consumer preferences shift and outdoor hospitality continues to evolve, the integration of traditional camping with glamping presents new opportunities for growth and sustainability. This session explores how blending traditional camping experiences with upscale glamping accommodations can attract a broader audience, increase revenue potential, and future-proof outdoor hospitality businesses. Tyler Watts will share insights on market trends, guest expectations, and strategic approaches to successfully merging these two models. Whether you operate a campground, glamping resort, or hybrid property, this session will provide valuable strategies for long-term success in the ever-changing outdoor hospitality landscape.
Speaker: Tyler Watts (Founder, Broad River Campground)
The First Year & Beyond: Glamping Entrepreneurs Share Their Journeys
Launching a glamping business is an exciting journey filled with challenges, lessons, and big wins. In this candid panel discussion operators will share their experiences navigating the ups and downs of their inaugural year and beyond. From overcoming unexpected hurdles to refining their guest experience and business operations, they’ll offer real-world insights and advice for those looking to start or improve their own glamping ventures. Whether you’re in the planning stages or already welcoming guests, this session will provide valuable takeaways and inspiration straight from the front lines of the industry.
Speaker: Dawn Aprile: Founder of Naturluxe & Stars
Smart Scaling: How Huttopia’s Early Decisions Paved the Way for Worldwide Growth
Philippe Bossanne, Founder of Huttopia, will take attendees on a journey through the strategic decisions that fueled the brand’s remarkable global expansion. In Smart Scaling: How Huttopia’s Early Decisions Paved the Way for Worldwide Growth, Philippe will share how Huttopia’s vision, operational choices, and commitment to sustainability positioned it as a leader in the glamping industry. From selecting the right locations to maintaining brand integrity while scaling, this session will offer valuable insights for entrepreneurs looking to grow their outdoor hospitality ventures successfully. Whether you’re just starting out or aiming for international reach, don’t miss this opportunity to learn from one of the industry’s pioneers.
Speaker: Philippe Bossanne, Founder of Huttopia
Glamping Entrepreneurship: Building, Scaling, and Succeeding in the Glamping Industry
Join Sarah Dusek, a pioneering entrepreneur in the glamping industry and co-founder of Under Canvas, for an insightful session on what it takes to launch, grow, and sustain a successful glamping business. Drawing from her extensive experience and her new book, The Calling: A Journey Through Entrepreneurship, Sarah will share key lessons on navigating the challenges of outdoor hospitality, securing investment, and scaling with purpose. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to take your glamping business to the next level, this session will provide invaluable insights from one of the industry’s true trailblazers.
Speaker: Sarah Dusek (Under Canvas-Few and Far)
