Attendees to h+h americas 2025 should prepare for an exciting evolution to the educational offerings at the show. Now approaching our fourth year, we’ve learned a lot about the scholastic needs of the craft industry. Each year invites another opportunity to refine the classes and lectures our industry leaders present, and we continue to hone the show’s educational aspects based on your feedback.
We sat down with Craft Industry Alliance Co-founder and President Abby Glassenberg to learn more about h+h americas 2025 educational opportunities.
The “Masterclass” at h+h americas is now “h+h University.” What inspired the switch?
We’re excited to offer a truly unique day of education and connection this year through our brand new program, h+h University. As the name implies, the program will be like going to college, but just for a day! Deep-dive classes taught by industry experts and small, group-guided networking sessions mean you’ll come away with a new knowledge base and new friends.
How does the h+h University format work? How does it differ from the Masterclass format?
The format of the day is all-inclusive. You’ll arrive on Tuesday morning and dive right into the track that’s right for you: brick-and-mortar retail, e-commerce, or designer/teacher. The tracks are flexible, though, so you can be sure to personalize the experience to best fit your needs and interests. Lunch, networking, and an after-school cocktail hour are all included! Let us treat you to a special experience.
Are a la carte classes going away?
A la carte classes will remain under the Business Class format, available on Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday.
Other Tuesday events include Product Academy, Sewing Dealer Summit, and Content Creator Summit.
How should participants prepare for h+h University? What should they expect?
Prior to the show, everyone attending h+h University will be invited to an exclusive Zoom to do some pre-show goal-setting and planning. Have a chance to sit down with your classmates and think together about how to best approach the show to get the most out of your time in Chicago.
Two weeks after the show, we’ll reconvene on Zoom to discuss how to follow up on everything you experienced. A trade show can be a bit of a whirlwind! We’ll take the time to unpack everything that happened and make a plan really get the most out of all the new connections we’ve made.
When should we expect to hear more about the offerings in h+h University?
In February! That’s when we’ll announce the exact schedule for the day, the teachers and class topics, and how everything will work. And look out for some additional perks to h+h University attendees! A true VIP experience of h+h americas.
Thank you to Abby Glassenberg for this insider’s look at the new h+h University initiative. Remember to sign up for h+h americas’ newsletter below to be the first to hear about educational events as they launch!
