Although I go to all the other toy fairs and many companies host their own pitch events, I’ve sold multiple concepts at POP over the years thanks to its superior setup. It’s the toy inventor community's best-kept secret, but I guess my guilt got the better of me—time to finally spill the beans...

The Top 10

1. Access to new companies: Meet and pitch to brands that don't attend major toy fairs or have convenient meeting spots in NY or LA. You might even find someone willing to finally look at that favorite concept you've been dragging around since 1994.

2. The best pitch setup by far: You get your own suite at the Embassy Suites and the companies come to you. No hauling prototypes through crowded convention halls or pitching in loud, disruptive rooms. Pure luxury.

3. Easy in, easy out: Located right next to O'Hare in Rosemont, it offers incredibly efficient airport access at a reasonable cost.

4. Great speakers and entertainment: The seminars are actually worthwhile, striking the ideal balance between valuable insights, heavy-hitting pitching, and surprisingly fun social events.

5. The TAGIE Awards: A fantastic, increasingly prestigious awards dinner. With the Toy Association now backing it, celebrating the actual minds behind the products has become a true priority.

6. The consumer toy fair: Unlike New York's year-in-advance preview, this is a festive, pre-holiday playground featuring games hitting shelves right now. It's a goldmine for seeing what kids and families actually care about.

7. Fresh talent: Discover new inventors you won't see anywhere else, often armed with stellar prototypes. As a pro, it’s a brilliant spot to scout fresh collaboration partners.

8. The Young Inventor Challenge: Easily one of the most inspiring events of the weekend. Serving as a judge and watching kids pitch with pure energy and authenticity is a masterclass in how it’s done.

9. A true community vibe: Unlike fairs sponsored by a single corporate giant, all the inventors and IR folks actually hang out together at the same events. It just works.

10. Prime timing: It’s your last chance for in-person meetings before the holidays, letting you gently pressure companies to make a decision before the January and February rush hits. 😎