Christian Book Expo

What Publishers Can Do Now

By: Mark Kuyper
President/CEO, ECPA
Published in: E-Link, October 2007

The first Christian Book Expo will be held in Dallas, Texas, March 20-22, 2009, at the Dallas Convention Center and will bring together publishers, authors and consumers. More than 389,000 square feet (100,000 is exhibit floor) has been reserved and confirmed. Dates are being set for the event in 2010 and 2011. ECPA is inviting publishers, ministries, authors and booksellers to exhibit in this open-to-the-public event. Activities at the three-day Expo will include workshops, seminars, mini-events and evening programming—all lead by or featuring authors.


Publishers: What can you be doing now? We suggest these items for starters . . .

  • Reserve your space -- If you haven’t already, be sure to download a complete Exhibitor Prospectus from the CBE website – return your completed application to ensure that your space is reserved on the show floor. Applications are already coming in. A variety of incentives (including a registration discount) are available for those exhibitors who register by October 22 as PREMIER Exhibitors. A variety of options will be available to you in regard to your show floor layout – if you have ideas or questions, call us and we’ll be happy to work with you to determine how best to tailor your space and positioning.

  • Identify key authors -- Your authors need to be at this event. The Christian Book Expo will rely heavily on the involvement of your authors at all levels – from renowned A-level authors who will generate immediate interest and excitement, to up-and-coming talents whose product and career will benefit from this opportunity to connect directly with their audience. Continue to brainstorm about how to involve your authors in the Expo, whether through in-booth signings/readings or author-led workshops, panel discussions, or meal functions . . . or a combination of all of these options! Information will be communicated in the coming weeks about how to reserve space for your featured authors.

  • Spread the word -- The more we can spread the word about this event, the greater the exposure will be for your brand, message, and authors. Think creatively about the networks already available to you and how you could begin promoting your presence at this event and generating that proverbial “buzz” even now! We will be creating some marketing materials that will help you promote the Expo and your presence at the event.


MARCH 20-22, 2009
Dallas Convention Center
Dallas, Texas


Your audience. Your message. Your Event. It’s what you’ve been waiting for. It’s time.