FAQ
EVENT DETAILS
WHEN IS THE ESCA Rising Leaders Summit?
WHAT IS THE DRESS CODE?
Business casual is encouraged.
IS PARKING AVAILABLE?
Yes, self-parking is available on-site for a fee.
REGISTRATION
HOW DO I REGISTER FOR THE EVENT?
Registration can be completed online here. Early registration is encouraged as space is limited.
CAN I BRING A GUEST?
WHAT DOES THE REGISTRATION INCLUDE?
Registration includes access to the opening reception, two breakfasts, daily breaks, the closing lunch, all networking events, and all educational sessions.
WILL THERE BE ASSIGNED SEATING?
Enjoy open seating — it helps keep conversations flowing and connections easy.
IS THE EVENT OPEN TO ESCA NON-MEMBERS?
Yes, non-members are welcome to attend by registering for the Summit.
IS THERE EARLY BIRD PRICING?
We keep registration simple with one standard rate for all attendees.
WHEN IS THE REGISTRATION DEADLINE?
You can register up until the event begins, including onsite registration. To secure the best experience, we strongly recommend registering at least 30 days before the event.
HOW CAN I UPDATE MY REGISTRATION?
WHAT IS THE REFUND POLICY?
Should you need to cancel, in whole or in part, please email events@esca.org. Refunds will be processed within 30 days of the event according to the following schedule:
- Prior to 75 days – Full refund
- 15–74 days – 50% refund
- Less than 15 days – No refund
TRAVEL & ACCOMMODATIONS
WILL THERE BE ACCOMMODATIONS OR HOTEL BLOCKS?
ESCA has secured a room block within the Marriott Downtown campus, which includes Courtyard Marriott, SpringHill Suites, and Residence Inn.
HOW FAR IS THE HOTEL FROM THE CONVENTION CENTER?
The hotel is a 15-minute walk or a 6-minute drive to the George R. Brown Convention Center.
WHAT ARE THE CHECK-IN AND CHECK-OUT TIMES AT THE HOTEL?
- Check-in: 4:00 PM
- Check-out: 12:00 PM
WHAT IS THE HOTEL'S CANCELLATION POLICY?
You can cancel your reservation up to 7 days prior to the event without penalty.
IS THERE A DISCOUNTED ROOM RATE FOR CONFERENCE ATTENDEES?
Yes, a discounted rate has already been applied when booking through our provided reservation link. If you are calling in your reservation, please make sure to say you are with the ESCA Rising Leaders Summit to receive your rooming discount.
CAN I BOOK A DIFFERENT HOTEL?
Absolutely. While we encourage attendees to stay at the designated conference hotel for convenience and networking opportunities, you’re welcome to book alternative accommodations—such as another hotel or an Airbnb—that better suit your preferences or budget.
WHAT AIRPORT SHOULD I FLY INTO?
Houston is served by two major airports: George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) and William P. Hobby Airport (HOU). Both are convenient options for reaching the George R. Brown Convention Center. IAH is about 20 miles north of downtown Houston, while HOU is approximately 10 miles south—choose the one that best fits your travel plans and preferred airline.
SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS
ARE DIETARY RESTRICTIONS ACCOMMODATED?
Yes, please note any dietary restrictions during registration and we will do our best to accommodate.
WHO CAN I CONTACT FOR QUESTIONS ABOUT THE EVENT?
For additional information, please contact the ESCA Events Team at events@esca.org.
SPONSORSHIPS & DISCOUNTS
I’M A SPONSOR. WHERE CAN I FIND MY DISCOUNT CODE?
Your discount code will be provided by the Events Team once your sponsorship is confirmed. If you haven’t received it, please reach out to sponsor@esca.org.
HOW DO I USE MY SPONSORSHIP DISCOUNT CODE?
Enter your discount code on the checkout page during registration. The discount will automatically apply to the qualifying registrations or items included in your sponsorship.
CAN I USE MY SPONSORSHIP DISCOUNT CODE FOR MULTIPLE REGISTRATIONS?
If your sponsorship includes multiple full conference registrations, you can use the discount code for each eligible registration.
WHAT IF I HAVE ADDITIONAL REGISTRATIONS OR ITEMS NOT COVERED BY MY SPONSORSHIP?
Any additional registrations or items beyond what your sponsorship covers can be paid for by credit card at checkout.
I’M INTERESTED IN SPONSORING FOR THE RISING LEADERS SUMMIT. HOW CAN I LEARN ABOUT THE AVAILABLE SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES?
I’VE FOUND A SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITY THAT I’D LIKE TO PURSUE. HOW DO I CONFIRM MY SPONSORSHIP AND WHAT ARE THE NEXT STEPS?
Once you’ve selected a sponsorship opportunity, email sponsor@esca.org to get started. Our team will walk you through the next steps, including confirming your sponsorship, submitting payment, and providing any needed details.
CONFERENCE ACTIVITIES
ARE THERE ANY NETWORKING EVENTS PLANNED?
Yes, the Summit includes multiple networking opportunities each day. Visit the schedule to explore all planned events and activities.
DO CONFERENCE ACTIVITIES REQUIRE AN ADDITIONAL FEE?
There is no additional cost to attend the Leadership Lab, Venue Tour, or Opening Reception. Please note that attendees who choose to participate in the dine-around dinner will be responsible for the cost of their own meal and transportation.
WHAT IS A DINE-AROUND DINNER?
The dine-around is a casual networking experience where small groups of attendees enjoy dinner together at local restaurants. It’s a great opportunity to connect in a relaxed setting and get to know your peers outside the conference environment.
HOW WILL I KNOW WHICH RESTAURANT I’M ASSIGNED TO?
Restaurant assignments and group details will be shared prior to the event, along with reservation times and any transportation information if needed.
DO I NEED TO RSVP FOR THE DINE-AROUND?
Yes, advance sign-up is required so we can confirm reservations and group sizes. You’ll receive a link to indicate your participation and cuisine preference during registration or via a pre-event email.
CAN I SELECT MY GROUP FOR THE DINE-AROUND?
Not exactly. You’ll be able to indicate your interest in attending and select your preferred cuisine, but ESCA will assign dinner groups. We kindly ask that you not request changes to sit with friends—the purpose of the dine-around is to connect with new people, exchange ideas, and expand your network within the industry.