The Essential Guide to Navigating Your First SOF Week
In This Guide
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Whether you’re a first-time attendee or a returning participant, SOF Week is the premier gathering for the international special operations community. This guide is designed to help you navigate the event, maximize your experience, and make the most of every opportunity available.
1. Before You Arrive
Setting yourself up for a successful SOF Week starts long before you land in sunny Tampa, Florida. Here’s how to hit the ground running:
- Pre-Event Prep
SOF Week is filled with exciting events and must-see experiences. To make the most of your time, it’s essential to prepare before arriving on-site. Check out the Full Attendee Guide for valuable planning tips and important information. - Download the Official SOF Week App
The official SOF Week app makes it easier to navigate the halls and plan your personal agenda. Connect with exhibitors in advance, participate in the SOF Week Odyssey game, and view conference sessions available to you based on your registration type –– all from the palm of your hand. - Pack Smart!
The SOF Week campus is a city-wide event that takes place in multiple venues in downtown Tampa. Be prepared to walk! Comfortable shoes and breathable, professional clothes are a necessity to survive the heat of May in Florida. - Make the Most of Your Time
Take advantage of our Affiliate Events page to make sure you attend the best networking events.
2. Arriving in Tampa
- Get Your Badge Early
After landing at Tampa International Airport, you can pick up your SOF Week badge on Level 3, between Gates E & F—before even leaving the airport. From there, it’s just a short 10–15 minute ride to Downtown Tampa (depending on traffic).
- Review and Refine Your Game Plan
Once you’ve checked into your hotel, revisit your SOF Week goals and ensure your agenda supports them. A little planning now can maximize your impact throughout the week. - Customize Your Agenda in the App
Use the SOF Week App to build your personalized schedule—highlight key sessions, bookmark must-see exhibitors, and flag networking events that support your mission. Make the most of your time at SOF Week by using our venue guide to plan your visit to each location. - Track Exhibitors You Don’t Want to Miss
Keep tabs on your top exhibitors by marking them as favorites in the app. This ensures you stay focused and don’t miss any high-value connections.
3. While at SOF Week
Make the most of your experience by staying organized and engaged throughout the event.
- Maximize Networking Opportunities
Engage with fellow attendees, industry leaders, and military representatives at scheduled sessions and informal meetups. Meaningful connections often happen between sessions! - Attend with Purpose
Focus on sessions that align with your goals and professional interests. The app’s filters allow you to sort sessions by topic, speaker, or track. - Explore the Exhibition Halls
Make time to visit your must-see exhibitors and discover new capabilities throughout the event. Mark favorites in the app to ensure you don’t miss them. - Ask for Help When Needed
Have a question? Look for SOF Week staff on-site—they’re happy to assist and help you make the most of your experience.
Insider Tip
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Can’t fit all of the keynotes and sessions you want to attend into your agenda? Tune into our live streams to stay updated on the latest innovations and discussions.
4. Getting Ready to Head Home
When your time at SOF Week comes to an end, make sure to:
- Check your bag at the Tampa Convention Center, Mezzanine Level, on Thursday, 8 May, so you don’t need to return to your hotel to pick it up, adding extra travel time to your day.
- Drop off badges and any unwanted print materials at designated recycling bins located throughout the venues.
- Leave extra time to get to the airport and go through security– it’ll be busy!
- Start planning your 2026 SOF Week adventure; the dates are 18 – 22 May 2026
FULL ATTENDEE GUIDE
The Full Attendee Guide is your comprehensive resource for SOF Week. It provides essential information on the event app, exhibitor details, registration, sponsorship opportunities, and customer solutions.
SOF Week Agenda
Download the SOF Week app to build your personal schedule and stay organized throughout the event.
SOF Week Attendee Hub
Exhibitor Questions?
Registration
CP Exclusive
There will be a Corporate Partner registration line available onsite Saturday, 3 May –
Monday, 5 May.
Attendee Justification Letter
Customer Solutions
CP Exclusive
For any questions not listed here, please reach out to your Partner Relations Manager.
Concerned about Security?
Live Demonstrations
Click below for the full schedule and details.
Corporate Partner Benefits
A dedicated Corporate Partner registration line will be available onsite on Monday, 5 May, to help streamline your check-in process. Look for the Corporate Partner signage upon arrival for faster access and personalized support.
HARPOON HARRY’S
Exclusive meeting space is available for private conversations, networking, lunch, or hospitality throughout SOF Week.
CUSTOMER SOLUTIONS
Need help making the right connections? Reach out to your Corporate Partner representative for support or assistance with specific needs during SOF Week.
ELEVATED VISIBILITY
The GSOF Corporate Partner shield is prominently displayed at all partner booths, highlighting your commitment and increasing visibility throughout the exhibition halls.
COMPLIMENTARY PASSES
Corporate Partners receive a limited number of complimentary passes as part of their benefits. For details or assistance, please contact your Partner Relations Manager.