You want to attend ISTELive 24, the edtech event of the year, but money is tight. We get that. Read on for ideas on how to participate in this life-changing conference without busting your budget.

1. Register early.

Registration costs go up as you get closer to the event, so plan on reserving your seat for ISTELive 24 by May 1 to knock $70 off the regular rate. Save even more by becoming an ISTE member.

2. Stay in conference hotels.

ISTE has negotiated lower room rates for conference attendees at more than two dozen Denver hotels. Booking within the conference housing block comes with the added convenience of a regular shuttle service to and from the Colorado Convention Center. Rooms fill up fast – reserve yours today!

3. Get funding from your school or district.

Convince your school or district leadership of the value of ISTELive 24, and they might just fund all or part of your expenses. Need help? On this page, you’ll find a sample email you can adapt to help you make the case to your supervisor.

4. Apply for a scholarship

To increase the number of attendees from historically underrepresented backgrounds and schools, ISTE awards scholarships to attend ISTELive 24. Apply before applications close May 6.

5. Look for grants. 

There are many community, state and federal organizations that offer grants for educator professional development. Teach.com has a list of grants but you can also find opportunities from local foundations, your district foundation or DonorsChoose.  

6. Travel with a team.

Traveling with a group of colleagues adds to the fun and can allow you to split the cost of hotel rooms and transportation. On top of that, ISTE offers group registration rates for qualifying schools, institutions and education nonprofits.

Traveling with colleagues offers another benefit: You can divide and conquer, allowing you to bring back even more ideas to enrich your classroom.

6. Reduce meal costs.

 There several ways to keep your meal costs in check:

• Fill the fridge in your room with snacks and meals. Your best bet is to call ahead to confirm your hotel provides a refrigerator. If not, some hotels will bring one to your room upon request with no additional charge.

• Grab breakfast foods and a few staples at a nearby grocery store.

• Pack a water bottle and fill it throughout the day at the convention center.