All prospective programming hosts MUST submit their panel or event idea(s) to Dream Con by completing the Programming Application Form. A separate application form (up to 3) must be submitted for EACH panel or event that you would like to host.
Programming applications will be reviewed by the Dream Con’s Programming Department. Please note that submitting an application does NOT guarantee approval. Prospective hosts will receive an email notifying the applicant if their panel or event has been accepted, rejected, or waitlisted. Due to the volume of submissions, only selected submissions are guaranteed to receive follow-up correspondence regarding the status of their application.
Programming Submission Open
November 18, 2022
Programming Submission Close
April 14, 2023
Prospective hosts may submit up to three (3) panel/event applications; however, Dream Con does not guarantee that all the submissions will be accepted. Accepted programming hosts that complete 2 hours of programming will receive a free membership badge.
During the convention, hosts and co-hosts are expected to arrive five (5) minutes early to their scheduled room. Hosts and Co-hosts must check-in with the room managers or volunteers to ensure proper setup. Panels and events must end five (5) minutes before the scheduled end time to ensure a proper transition from one panel/event to the next.
All panel and event rooms are equipped with the following:
These submissions will NOT be considered:
Panels and events that include any adult material or inappropriate content will be tagged as an 18+ panel/event. All members of a group or team hosting an 18+ panel or event must be 18 years of age or older by July 28, 2023.
Examples of 18+ Content:
*Hosts are liable for all damages sustained during their panel(s). “No Shows” or late cancellations will impact future considerations for programming submissions. For more information or other questions, please contact us at programming@dreamconvention.com
*Professional Associations/Orgs are businesses that employ individuals either in a full-time or part-time capacity.
Q: Can we get more than 3 membership badges for our group?
A: No, groups are only allowed up to 3 membership badges. Professional Associations/orgs may request an exemption.
Q: Can I pick up all the badges for my group?
A: No, members must pick up their badges individually. There are no exceptions!
Q: Can we change the names of a host participating in our event?
A: Yes, but only once. This request must be submitted in writing via email and approved by The programming director beforehand. Additional details will be provided to approved applicants regarding the process in their confirmation documents.
Q: I applied last year and my was accepted. Does past approvals impact my submission for this year?
A: No, past approvals do not guarantee that your application will be approved for Dream Con 2023.
Q: Can I make any changes to my application a week before con (including but not limited to description, title, name exchange etc.)?
A: No, all changes must be made at least thirty (30) calendar days prior to Day 1 of Dream Con. There are no exceptions!
Q: Will Dream Con compensate or accommodate my team?
A: No, Dream Con does not offer financial compensation or accommodations (travel, lodging, meals, parking, etc.) for any hosts
Q: Is there a way to apply to be on the Main Stage?
A: No, all Main Stage acts are curated solely by Dream Con’s Main and Special Events Team.
Q: I would love to be a part of Dream Con’s Programming Department. Is there any way to connect directly for general information?
A: Yes, you can email us directly at programming@dreamconvention.com Please note that you must apply to be a volunteer/staff member to directly work in our team. Please do not send staffing inquiries via email.
Q: I bought a badge before being approved for a programming badge. Can I receive a refund?
A: If approved, refunds for previously purchased badges will be issued 14-days after Dream Con. Each member of your team that purchased a badge must individually complete the Refund Request Form in July. Any individuals who do not submit the form by the deadline, will not receive a refund. Remember only 3 individuals can qualify for a refund under an accepted programming group/team.
Q: I applied for a programming badge but my application was rejected, and I did not buy a ticket for Dream Con during the public ticket releases. Now what?
A: To ensure entry to Dream Con, it is recommended that you purchase an attendee badge before applying for a programming badge. Rejected applicants will not receive an extra opportunity to purchase badges after all public releases have been completed.
Q: I live out of state but would love to host a panel/event. Should I buy a plane ticket before getting approved and will my location count against me during the programming application process?
A: You should apply if you are already interested or will be attending Dream Con. Your location will not negatively affect your application. Please be advised that flights become more expensive when closer to the date of the event. We recommend that you work out your accommodations as soon as possible before applying to host a panel or event.