IAAPA Rookies: FEC 101

Saturday, November 14, 2026 9:00 AM to Monday, November 16, 2026 2:00 PM · 2 days 5 hr. (America/New_York)
Multiple, See Description
Experiential Learning Program

Information

Looking to open an FEC or location-based entertainment venue? Tap into valuable insights from experts in LBE & FEC management during this multi-day program that will help you develop, design, and launch your business. Walk away with the roadmap to launch your unique entertainment facility.  

HIGHLIGHTS

Spend three comprehensive days learning how to open and launch a family or location-based entertainment venue successfully

  • Gain valuable insights, resources, and partnerships necessary to launch your enterprise
  • Tour some of Orlando’s most unique venues in location-based entertainment, including Arcade Time Entertainment and Andretti Indoor Karting & Games
  • Attend the EDUTour to Fun Spot America with available transportation, dinner, and a guided tour


IS THIS COURSE RIGHT FOR ME? 

Level: Introductory

If you are interested in opening a location-based entertainment venue or family entertainment center, or are looking to develop relevant skills, and:

  • You have 0-3 years in the industry
  • You wish to gain a global understanding of the family and location-based entertainment industry
  • You would like to build partnerships and a network of other like-minded entrepreneurs and industry experts
  • You are eager to get feedback about your business concept or plan

Participation is exclusive to operators in this segment, IAAPA reserves the right to approve participant registration.

Agenda

Saturday, Nov. 14, 2026

Location: Arcade Time Entertainment - 6464 International Dr, Orlando, FL 32819

4:00-7:00 p.m. 

Welcome Reception 

Participate in an ice-breaking event where you will have the opportunity to meet your fellow attendees, IAAPA Team Members, FEC Committee members, and program faculty. Get to learn the story behind Arcade Time Entertainment. Refreshments will be provided. Transportation is not provided. Free parking is available.

Sunday, Nov. 15, 2026

Location: Andretti Indoor Karting & Games, 9299 Universal Blvd Orlando, FL

8 - 8:30 a.m. Breakfast
8:30 - 8:45 a.m. Welcome to IAAPA Rookies: FEC 101
8:45 - 9 a.m. Introductions and Housekeeping
9 – 10:30 a.m. Andretti’s EDUTour
10:30 – 10:45 a.m. Break
10:45 – 12 p.m. Foundation
12 – 1 p.m. Lunch
1 – 2 p.m. Market Analysis & Site Selection
2 - 2:30 p.m. Branding/Design
2:30 - 3 p.m. Attractions and More
3 - 3:45 p.m. Game Room/Redemption
3:45 – 4 p.m. Break
4 – 4:30 p.m. All About Food and Beverage
4:30 - 5 p.m. Construction & Operational Efficiency
5 – 5:15 p.m. Wrap Up of Day Two
5:15 – 5:30 p.m. Prep for Buses

Travel to EDUTour

6:00 – 10:00 p.m. 

EDUTour: Fun Spot America: Experience an exclusive tour of Fun Spot America, Central Florida's only family-owned theme park. Meet the owners and learn first-hand how Fun Spot started as a family entertainment center and has grown into a successful theme park. 

Monday, Nov. 16, 2026

8:30 – 9 a.m. Breakfast
9 – 10 a.m. Launch Your Business
10 – 10:15 a.m. Break
10:15 – 11:45 a.m. Operations
11:45 - 12:45 p.m. Lunch and Learn: Ask the Speakers
12:45 - 1:30pm Operator Panel: Lessons from the Front Lines: Operator
Reflections
1:30 – 2 p.m. Continue the Journey

6:00-7:30 p.m. Kings Dining and Entertainment (8255 International Dr, Orlando, FL 32819)

Let the Fun Begin! 

Mix, mingle, and connect with FEC and LBE pros, operators, and suppliers from around the globe.

This is the perfect chance to exchange exciting ideas, share laughs, and build lasting relationships in a laid-back, fun atmosphere. Hosted by the IAAPA Family Entertainment Center Committee, this event is your go-to spot to unwind after a busy day and spark connections that will help take your business to the next level.


IAAPA RECERTIFICATION

Participants who complete all portions of the agenda will earn 14 CEU's toward IAAPA Recertification. 

CONTENT DELIVERY
In-person
NOTES
Must be 18 years or older to attend, 21 or older to consume beer or wine. Course fee includes tuition and support materials, daytime meals and refreshments, Fun Spot America EDUTour on Sunday, FEC Reception, and a certificate of completion. Any outdoor portions of this event will proceed as scheduled rain or shine.
TRACKS
Family Entertainment Centers
DIFFICULTY LEVEL
Introductory
LEARNING OBJECTIVES
•Participants will develop a comprehensive understanding of the key components necessary to successfully open and launch a family entertainment center or location-based entertainment venue, including branding, market analysis, fundraising strategies, and legal considerations •Attendees will gain practical insights and resources essential for crafting a compelling guest experience, from attraction selection and food and beverage offerings to effective arcade operations and the use of technology and data to enhance guest satisfaction •By the end of the program, participants will be equipped with the knowledge and skills to develop and execute a strategic marketing launch plan, establish a group and event sales
LANGUAGE
English
TRANSLATIONS AVAILABLE
AI Translation

Access & Attendance

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
Expo Registration and Separate Ticket Required
TICKET AVAILABILITY
Available
PRICING - MEMBER
649 USD
PRICING - NONMEMBER
1089 USD
FOOD & BEVERAGE
Includes reception at ice breaker event, a light breakfast, refreshments, and lunch at Andretti Indoor Karting & Gaming, coffee, lunch at OCCC, dinner at Fun Spot America, and FEC reception.