Investors, developers, students, entrepreneurs, commercial bankers, architects, and business leaders unite August 6 to help shape the future of San Diego’s economy.
SAN DIEGO, Calif. — The International Wealth Builders Association (IWBA) announced today that its annual San Diego Real Estate Investing and Business Expo will return on Thursday, August 6, 2026, at the Handlery Hotel San Diego, bringing together one of the region’s most diverse gatherings of commercial banking executives, developers, architects, attorneys, entrepreneurs, investors, educators, government leaders, and emerging professionals.
Designed as an immersive day of practical education, relationship building, and economic collaboration, the Expo introduces a new model that moves beyond traditional conferences by placing attendees inside expert-led executive roundtables where real business challenges are explored through collaborative discussion rather than classroom lectures.
The event represents a significant collaboration between private industry, higher education, and civic leadership through an official partnership with NewSchool of Architecture & Design, serving as the event’s Official Community Education Partner. Students will have the opportunity to meet directly with developers, commercial real estate professionals, architects, attorneys, lenders, investors, and entrepreneurs while exploring real-world pathways into development partnerships, commercial projects, and long-term career opportunities.
The partnership with NewSchool of Architecture & Design represents one of the Expo’s most significant initiatives. Students won’t simply attend presentations—they’ll participate in conversations with developers, commercial lenders, architects, attorneys, and investors, gaining exposure to real projects, mentorship opportunities, internships, and potential equity partnerships. The collaboration is designed to help bridge the gap between higher education and the industries shaping San Diego’s future.
“Education should not stop at graduation,” said Marie Antonette Waite, Founder of the International Wealth Builders Association.
“Our mission is to create an environment where students sit beside developers, entrepreneurs learn directly from bankers, investors collaborate with attorneys, and business leaders build relationships that continue long after the event ends. This is where ideas become partnerships, and partnerships become lasting economic impact.”
Unlike traditional conferences built around lecture presentations, the IWBA Expo features more than 30 professionally moderated executive roundtable discussions covering today’s most pressing real estate and business topics, including:
- Commercial Banking & Business Acquisition Financing
- Multifamily and Mixed-Use Development
- Architecture & Design Innovation
- ADU Development
- International Real Estate Investing
- Joint Ventures & Syndications
- Commercial Lending
- Estate Planning & Asset Protection
- Leadership Development
- Business Growth Systems
- Marketing & Personal Branding
- Wealth Mindset
- Media & Authority Building
- Real Estate Operations
- Executive Masterminds
- Capital Formation
- Entrepreneurship
Each roundtable is intentionally limited in size to encourage meaningful conversations, direct interaction with industry experts, and practical application of ideas. Topics range from student-led development partnerships and commercial lending strategies to syndications, asset protection, branding, leadership, business acquisitions, media authority, and succession planning.
One of the day’s featured presentations will be delivered by Thomas J. Inserra of Beach Cities Commercial Bank, who will provide attendees with practical insights into commercial lending, business acquisitions, and financing strategies for entrepreneurs and investors navigating today’s marketplace.
The afternoon continues with a special Real Men of Real Estate leadership panel featuring respected professionals sharing candid conversations about leadership, business ownership, investing, resilience, and long-term success.
The evening concludes with the IWBA Twilight Session, followed by a VIP networking experience and an official civic recognition ceremony honoring individuals whose leadership and service have strengthened San Diego’s business community. Selected executives, developers, entrepreneurs, and community leaders will receive Official Certificates of Recognition presented in partnership with members of the California State Assembly for their contributions to economic development and community impact.
The Expo also offers a unique opportunity for working professionals exploring real estate investing while maintaining full-time careers. Special sessions focus on practical strategies for building long-term wealth through education, partnerships, responsible investing, and business ownership.
According to IWBA organizers, the event is designed for:
- Real Estate Investors
- Developers
- Commercial Brokers
- Business Owners
- Architects
- Engineers
- Attorneys
- CPAs
- Commercial Bankers
- Construction Professionals
- Students
- Entrepreneurs
- Working Professionals
- Family Offices
- Wealth Advisors
- Community Leaders
Registration is required. Seating for the executive roundtables is intentionally limited to preserve the interactive discussion format and maximize networking opportunities.
Student Promo Code: COLLEGESTUDENT15
Additional information and registration are available at:
https://www.internationalwealthbuildersassociation.com/san-diego-real-estate-investing-expo/
About the International Wealth Builders Association
The International Wealth Builders Association (IWBA) is a national business and real estate leadership organization founded by Marie Antonette Waite. IWBA connects investors, entrepreneurs, developers, business professionals, educators, and community leaders through education, strategic partnerships, media platforms, and professional networking designed to strengthen local economies and help individuals build sustainable wealth and lasting legacies.
Media Invitation
Credentialed members of the media are invited to attend the San Diego Real Estate Investing and Business Expo for interviews, photography, and video coverage.
Interview opportunities include:
- Thomas J. Inserra
- Marie Antonette Waite
- NewSchool of Architecture & Design representatives
- Commercial banking leaders
- Developers
- Attorneys
- Entrepreneurs
- California Assembly honorees
- Real Men of Real Estate television panel participants
Media inquiries:
Marie Antonette Waite
International Wealth Builders Association
619-453-4664
marie@finestwomeninrealestate.com