For over three decades, the Dancewear Association of Canada (DAC) has been the heartbeat of Canada’s dance retail industry. Founded in 1991, we are the country’s only nonprofit trade organization that brings together both dancewear retailers and manufacturers under one roof.

A Community Built on Partnership

What sets DAC apart is our unique ecosystem. We’re not just retailers talking to retailers, or manufacturers speaking only to other manufacturers. We’re a collaborative community where both sides of the industry come together to share insights, tackle challenges, and drive innovation. When retailers understand manufacturing realities and manufacturers grasp retail demands, everyone wins – and so does the Canadian dance community.

Our annual summit and trade show serves as the cornerstone of this partnership, where ideas flow freely, new products debut, and professional relationships deepen into lasting friendships.

Driven by Passion, Led by Peers

DAC isn’t run by distant corporate executives or industry outsiders. We’re governed by member-volunteers – people who live and breathe the dancewear business every day. These dedicated professionals volunteer their time because they believe in strengthening our industry and supporting fellow Canadians who share their passion for dance.

Whether you’re looking to expand your network, discover the latest trends, or contribute to shaping the future of dance retail in Canada, you’ll find your place within our community.

Connection Beyond the Conference

While our annual gathering is undoubtedly a highlight, DAC’s value extends far beyond those few days. Our members maintain year-round contact through Dance Connect, our community hub that keeps conversations flowing and relationships strong.

This ongoing connection means real support when you need it most – whether that’s getting advice on a challenging situation, brainstorming solutions to common problems, or even helping each other fulfill customer orders when inventory runs short.

Designed for Canadian Dance Retailers

We understand the realities facing Canadian dance retailers. From single-store operations in small communities to growing multi-location businesses, we’ve built DAC to be accessible and valuable regardless of your size or location.

Our membership fees and conference costs are deliberately kept reasonable because we believe every Canadian dance retailer should have the opportunity to participate, learn, and grow alongside their peers.

The manufacturer discounts available exclusively to DAC members who attend our summit often more than cover the cost of participation – making your investment in professional development essentially pay for itself.

Your Industry, Your Association

At DAC, we’re more than just a trade organization – we’re your professional home within Canada’s dance industry. We’re here to help you navigate challenges, celebrate successes, and build the connections that will support your business for years to come.