The ISA Elite program recognizes and develops outstanding young professionals in the sign, graphics, and visual communications industry. Designed for emerging leaders, the program provides participants with unique opportunities to expand their professional network, strengthen their leadership skills, and gain deeper insight into the industry.
Each year, a select group of professionals under the age of 35 is chosen to participate in this highly respected program. Participants engage with peers from across the country, connect with experienced industry leaders, and gain exposure to new ideas that help them grow personally and professionally.
Becoming an ISA Elite is more than being selected for the program — it is an achievement earned by completing the full program cycle and actively participating in the leadership and networking experiences that define the ISA Elite community.
Those who complete the program join a growing network of ISA Elite alumni who continue to support, collaborate, and lead throughout the industry.
Leadership Development and Meaningful Connections
The ISA Elite program is built around creating experiences that help participants grow as professionals while building strong industry relationships.Throughout the program, participants will:
- Connect with a national network of peers from across the sign and graphics industry
- Engage directly with industry leaders and ISA leadership
- Participate in leadership-focused discussions and professional development opportunities
- Build lasting relationships that extend far beyond the program itself
Many participants describe the relationships formed through ISA Elite as some of the most valuable connections they make in their careers.
How Do I Become an ISA Elite?
- Must be 35 years of age or younger on December 31, 2026.
- Must have worked in the Sign & Graphics industry for at least 2 full years.
- Must be employed by a company that is a member of ISA, or an affiliated association, for the duration of the ISA Elite program (through ISA Sign Expo in March/April 2027).
- Application submission and approval by a third-party panel of judges.
- Participation in the virtual ISA Elite class meeting, scheduled for September 2026.
- Attendance at the ISA Elite Leadership Conference in full, held in October 2026 at the ISA HQ in Alexandria, VA.
- Attendance at the final program at ISA Sign Expo 2027 in Las Vegas, NV – March 31-April 2, 2027.
A Network That Lasts Beyond the Program
“Being a part of the ISA Elite was one of the most valuable experiences I have had to date! I have come to rely on the network I built while part of the ISA Elite, again and again — for guidance, leadership, advice and so much more. This program gave us the push and confidence we needed to really step it up and bring our business to the next level.”
What it's like to attend ISA International Sign Expo as an ISA Elite:
ISA Elite program has been a great resource for networking and continues to instill my confidence in the industry going forward. It's given me the tools and resources I need to expand and grow my knowledge along with creating a satellite of connected industry professionals.
Applications
"Being a part of the ISA Elite was one of the most valuable experiences I have had to date! I have come to rely on the network I built while part of the ISA Elite, again and again - for guidance, leadership, advice and so much more! This program honestly gave us the push and confidence we needed to really step it up here at Signature Sign and Image, and bring our business to the next level! "