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Leadership

Finding Your DECA Niche

Aug 14, 2026

Whether you're walking into a conference room, stepping into a leadership role, or pursuing your personal goals, everybody wants to be the Next Big Thing. What truly sets you apart from everyone else is finding your niche.

Chapter Strategy

Now Open: Advisor Best Practice of the Week Nominations

Aug 14, 2026

Last year, we asked you to nominate advisors who were implementing innovative best practices into their chapters and classrooms and we were able to shine the light on some incredible advisors.

Career Insights

Bring Tech Skills to Life in Just 15–20 Minutes

Aug 11, 2026

These quick, engaging 15–20 minute activities help students explore AI, cybersecurity, digital skills and other future-focused topics - perfect for a class opener, bell ringer or enrichment activity.

Chapter Strategy

Watch Now: DECA's 2026-2027 Membership Video

Aug 10, 2026

DECA's 2026-2027 membership video is ready to inspire the next generation of members to discover their Next Big Thing with DECA. View and download the video now!

Conferences

Watch the 2027 #DECAICDC Promo Video

Aug 10, 2026

Get ready to discover your Next Big Thing at DECA's International Career Development Conference hosted in Anaheim, CA, on April 17-20, 2027.

Case Study of the Week

Case Study of the Week: Channel Strategies for Dr. Smoothie

Aug 10, 2026

Assume the role of the owner of DR. SMOOTHIE, a mobile beverage truck that sells smoothies. The investor wants you to identify resources needed for DR. SMOOTHIE to adapt its channel strategies.

Chapter Strategy

The Summer Strategy Behind Howell DECA's Membership Growth

Aug 9, 2026

The strongest DECA chapters don't recruit harder; they plan earlier. Discover three practical recruitment strategies your chapter can implement before school starts to increase awareness and membership.

Chapter Strategy

DECA Advisors - How Are You Making Your Classroom the Next Big Thing?

Aug 9, 2026

Show us how you're setting up your chapter for success this year by using the Next Big Thing materials and the competitive events resources from your back-to-school box for a chance to win a $100 Shop DECA gift card.

DECA News

Adobe Hosts 70 DECA Advisors for Luminary 2026

Aug 3, 2026

For three days, attendees participated in learning sessions with DECA staff and interactive workshops with Adobe team members. Advisors gained firsthand experience with Adobe Express and learned how to apply these tools to DECA's programs.

Case Study of the Week

Case Study of the Week: AI in Marketing

Aug 3, 2026

Assume the role of the general manager for an outdoor holiday lights and decorations installation business while you analyze the use of artificial intelligence (AI) images in marketing materials and recommend how to proceed.

Leadership

One DECA Calls Are Back

Aug 1, 2026

These monthly calls are designed to bring members together to learn, connect and stay engaged throughout the year. If you're looking to develop your leadership skills, hear new ideas or meet new members, One DECA Calls are for you!

Chapter Strategy

The Not-So-Secret Branding Tool Your Chapter Needs This Year

Aug 1, 2026

Whether you're welcoming new members or promoting a fundraiser, consistent branding helps your chapter look polished, professional and recognizable. Adobe Express makes that easier than ever, and one feature every chapter should take advantage of is Brand Kits.

Compete

Summer and Competition Preperation is in Session

Jul 1, 2026

Whether this upcoming school year is the first time you are competing in Collegiate DECA or not, there is no better time than now to start taking the first steps.

Chapter Strategy

A Leader’s Checklist for Preparing for a New School Year 

Jul 1, 2026

For chapter and association leaders, this time of year is especially important. The work you do before classes begin can set the tone for your entire year, helping your team stay organized, engaged and ready to succeed.

Leadership

5 Ways to Lead Outside of DECA 

Jul 1, 2026

While DECA has helped shape me as a leader, some of my biggest leadership lessons have come from experiences outside of DECA. Whether it's at school, work, or in your community, there are opportunities to lead everywhere.

Chapter Strategy

Be a Founder: 6 Steps to Bring Collegiate DECA to Your University 

Jul 1, 2026

During my senior year of high school, I realized the college I was attending did not have a Collegiate DECA chapter. This made me realize that I had the opportunity to create something that would benefit students for years to come.

Leadership

Simple Ways to Balance Work, Life and DECA

Jul 1, 2026

Balance does not mean doing everything perfectly. It means finding a routine that helps you stay organized, communicate clearly and take care of yourself.

DECA News

Get to Know the 2026-27 Collegiate DECA Executive Officer Team

Jun 12, 2026

As the 2026-27 Collegiate DECA Executive Officers gear up for an exciting year ahead, take a moment to learn more about the faces behind the blazers and the stories that brought them here.

Chapter Strategy

How to Discover Your Next Big Thing

Jun 12, 2026

Your Next Big Thing starts with one step. Learn how DECA members can discover their goals, grow from challenges and use every opportunity to become stronger leaders and members.

Chapter Strategy

The Step-by-Step Guide to Meet with Congressional Representatives 

Jun 10, 2026

Meeting with your US Congressional Representative is one of the most effective ways to advocate for DECA. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you schedule a meeting with your representatives, share your experiences, and follow up.

Leadership

What Collegiate DECA Has Taught Me About Networking

Jun 1, 2026

Before DECA, I used to think networking meant adding random people on LinkedIn. But over the last few years, I’ve learned that networking is much more than that. Here are 5 things that DECA has taught me about networking.

Chapter Strategy

Goal Setting for Your Collegiate DECA Chapter

Jun 1, 2026

Before diving headfirst into working towards accomplishing your chapter's goals, here are a few important steps each chapter should take when setting goals.

Leadership

Building Your Brand for Future Success

Jun 1, 2026

No matter the setting, your personal brand can influence future opportunities. Discover the building blocks you can establish to ensure a successful brand, especially whenever it comes to being the NEXT BIG THING.

Career Insights

How to Make the Most of Your Summer Internship

Jun 1, 2026

Whether you are exploring a new industry, building connections, gaining experience or aiming for a post-graduation job offer, internships are the perfect opportunity to learn more about yourself and your future career goals.