The Hammond-based South Shore Convention and Visitors Authority is hosting a Sports Summit Feb. 26.

The event will feature a lineup of presenters on topics such as funding new and existing venues and best practices. They will also discuss grant opportunities, turf/irrigation upgrades and other topics.

“This Sports Summit is designed to aid our local communities, parks and recreation departments, school corporations and more to move forward with renovations or new plans for sports facilities that will help our region remain competitive in a growing sports tourism industry,” said Jimmy Nelson, SSCVA director of sports, in a press release.

Summit attendees will hear from speakers and have the opportunity to connect with peers. They will be able to share experiences and discuss the challenges and opportunities they encounter.

Speakers include William Knox, Legacy Sports Group president and CEO, and Rachel Frank, Indiana Sports Corp. director of statewide initiatives and external affairs.

Knox, a Gary native, works with communities to align their sports recreation programs with their sports tourism goals. Frank works with partners across the state to increase sports tourism. She also markets Indiana on a national level to event owners and rights holders.

The summit will also feature vendors. Attendees can learn about new sports equipment, products and facility solutions.

The Sports Summit is free to attend. The event will take place 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Feb. 26 at the Indiana Welcome Center in Hammond.