The Kitchen and Bath Industry Show (KBIS) has announced a new program to spotlight exhibitor excellence: Innovation Hour, a fast-paced, design-forward “show + tell” session that highlights emerging materials, product features, and design details that are quietly shaping the future of kitchen and bath spaces.
An invitation to be creative, this editorial event will feature up to eight live presentations detailing new-to-market or under-the-radar innovation that deserves more attention – whether it’s a new finish, a clever use case, or a sustainable material. While “newness” is always something to celebrate at KBIS, this format is designed to widen the spotlight to include the many noteworthy products and minds that deserve to shine.
Each five minute moderated presentation will engage tactile, sample-drive storytelling – and offer a must-attend event for designers, specifiers, and creative thinkers. At the end, audience members will judge the presenters live in three categories: “Most Innovative,” “Most Unexpected,” and “I’d Spec This Tomorrow.”
Brands can apply now to present their innovations here; the deadline to submit an application is December 4, 2025. The event will take place on February 17, 2026 at 12pm on the KBIS NEXTStage.
Hard Hat Media Tour
In addition to Innovation Hour, KBIS is pleased to present the 2026 Hard Hat Media Tour where a curated selection of exhibitors will showcase their newest products to a group of invite-only influential media. Selected brands will receive 10 minutes to present their product story and showcase their unique booths on Tuesday, February 27, 2026 from 7:30 AM – 10:00 AM.
Exhibitors can self nominate to be blind judged by a team of high-profile media for five available spots. The chosen exhibitors will be notified in December. The application for brands is here and due by November 7, 2025.
The selected brands will join the three sponsored brands to create the Hard Hat Media Tour. Empava is the coffee sponsor supporting the event and Signature Kitchen Suite is the breakfast sponsor. Exhibitors interested in sponsoring the Hard Hat Media Tour should contact their sales representative to guarantee a spot on the tour.
