American Public Transportation Association - APTA TRANSform Conference 2026
Event Date
October 4–7, 2026
Location
Chicago, IL
Expected Exhibitors
800
About This Show
AI-drafted summaryAPTA's TRANSform & EXPO is the flagship event of the American Public Transportation Association, bringing together the global public transportation community to explore new technology, mobility solutions, and the future direction of the industry. EXPO elevates the next era of global transit—driven by advanced technologies, sustainable solutions, and forward-thinking business models, and it is billed as the largest showcase of its kind.
The event combines a large exhibit floor with the TRANSform conference program. APTA's TRANSform is the flagship event for public transportation professionals to engage in workshops, experience technical tours, and network with colleagues. Attendees include transit agency leaders and staff, engineers, planners, government officials, manufacturers, suppliers, consultants, and academics from across the world.
The 2026 edition takes place in Chicago, a city the organizers describe as being at the crossroads of transportation innovation. It is worth attending for the breadth of exhibitors, the education and networking, and the chance to connect with industry leaders who are redefining public transportation. There is an abundance of opportunities to reconnect, meet for the first time, and celebrate joint successes and growth as an industry.
Show Highlights
Key features of APTA TRANSform & EXPO include:
- The EXPO show floor — With 800+ exhibiting companies on the floor, you will find the solutions and products you seek, from cutting-edge technology to innovative mobility solutions.
- TRANSform conference program — general sessions, educational sessions, workshops, and technical tours for public transportation professionals.
- Innovation Summit — a dedicated summit featuring "Ignite Innovation Talks," included with full conference registration or available as a standalone registration.
- Learning Zones on the show floor.
- Networking events — including a Welcome Reception and the APTA Honors Breakfast & Ceremony.
- Transit Board Administrators Development Day — a specialized program day for transit board members and administrators.
Attendance
According to the organizer, the event draws a large international audience. EXPO by the numbers: 12,000+ attendees, 85 countries, and 800+ exhibiting companies.
Registration
Registration is handled online through the official APTA TRANSform & EXPO site, with separate paths for the full TRANSform Conference, EXPO-only access, booth staff, and media.
Published registration rates include:
- Member: $1,249 early-bird / $1,529 standard
- Non-Member: $3,098
- Federal Government: $627
- University Faculty: $627
- Student Member – Full Conference: $419
- Student Member – Sessions Only: Complimentary
- Personal Guest: $419
- Innovation Summit Only: $425
- Transit Board Administrators Development Day: $199
The early-bird rate applies through August 21, with the standard rate after August 21. EXPO Only Registration is free to the public but does not include access to the TRANSform Conference events. Media registration requires valid press credentials, and only qualified media receive a complimentary badge.
All cancellations and refund requests must be received by email by September 4, 2026, and refunds are not issued after this date.
History
APTA's exposition is a long-running event held by the American Public Transportation Association. For the first time since 1981, the event is returning to Chicago, described as the city at the crossroads of transportation innovation. The event is organized by APTA with show management by NTP Events.
Exhibitors
Exhibitor Information
Detailed exhibitor list is being compiled. Check back soon or visit the official show website for the most current information.
Last updated: July 27, 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
When and where is APTA TRANSform & EXPO 2026 held?
The event takes place October 4-7, 2026, in Chicago, Illinois. Conference sessions and the EXPO are held at the McCormick Place Convention Center (South Hall), with the Hilton Chicago serving as the headquarter hotel.
Who should attend APTA TRANSform & EXPO?
It is designed for public transportation professionals, including transit agency leaders and staff, planners, engineers, government officials, manufacturers, suppliers, consultants, and academics. The event draws over 12,000 attendees from 85 countries.
How do I register and what does it cost?
Registration is done online, with separate options for the full TRANSform Conference, EXPO only, booth staff, and media. Full conference rates include $1,249 early-bird for members (rising to $1,529 after August 21), while EXPO-only registration is free to the public.
How many exhibitors are at the EXPO?
The organizer reports 800+ exhibiting companies on the show floor, showcasing transit technology, vehicles, and mobility solutions.
What is included in a full conference registration?
A full conference registration includes access to the General Sessions, Educational Sessions, Welcome Reception, EXPO, the APTA Honors Breakfast & Ceremony, and the Innovation Summit.
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