Cat Rescue & Nonprofit Application

Carolina Kitty Con is a family-friendly, cat-focused convention celebrating rescue, education, and community. Taking place June 20–21, 2026 at the NC State Fairgrounds, our event brings together cat lovers, creators, and organizations dedicated to improving the lives of cats.

We are inviting animal rescues and nonprofit organizations to apply to participate as part of our Rescue Row. This is an opportunity to connect with a highly engaged audience, share your mission, and help cats find loving homes.

What we’re looking for:

• Registered 501(c)(3) rescues, shelters, and animal welfare organizations
• Groups actively involved in cat rescue, adoption, fostering, TNR, or education
• Organizations committed to humane, ethical practices and positive community impact

Rescue participation may include:

• On-site adoption opportunities (pending approval and compliance with local regulations)
• Educational outreach and awareness
• Merchandise or donation-based fundraising (must align with your nonprofit mission)

Please note:

• All participating rescues must provide proof of nonprofit status and applicable insurance if handling live animals
• Animal welfare and safety are our top priority. Additional guidelines will be provided upon acceptance
• Space is limited, and applications will be reviewed to ensure a balanced and diverse Rescue Row

Carolina Kitty Con is proud to support and spotlight the incredible work of rescue organizations. We aim to create a meaningful platform that drives awareness, adoptions, and long-term community impact.

We can’t wait to learn more about your organization and how we can work together to make a difference for cats!!

By submitting an application and, if accepted, participating in Carolina Kitty Con (June 20–21, 2026 at the NC State Fairgrounds), all rescue organizations agree to the following terms:

1. Eligibility Requirements

Must be a registered nonprofit organization (501(c)(3) or equivalent) in good standing
Must align with humane, ethical animal welfare practices
Must provide proof of nonprofit status upon request

2. Animal Welfare & Safety

The health, safety, and well-being of all animals is the highest priority
All animals must be up to date on vaccinations and in good health
Animals must be transported, housed, and handled in a humane and low-stress manner
Carolina Kitty Con reserves the right to require removal of any animal deemed unsafe, stressed, or at risk

3. On-Site Adoptions & Policy

Carolina Kitty Con is an adoption awareness event only
Rescues are solely responsible for their adoption processes, screening, and documentation
All adoption activities must comply with local, county, and state regulations
Carolina Kitty Con is not liable for any adoption outcomes
No Same-Day Adoptions

No cats may be adopted or leave the event with attendees on the same day
All adoptions must be completed off-site through the rescue’s standard process following the event

4. Insurance & Liability

Participating rescues may be required to provide a Certificate of Insurance (COI) listing Carolina Kitty Con as additionally insured if handling live animals
Rescues assume full responsibility for their staff, volunteers, animals, and property
Carolina Kitty Con, its staff, venue, and partners are not liable for injury, illness, loss, or damages

5. Booth Conduct & Operations

Spaces must be staffed at all times during event hours
Booths must remain clean, organized, and safe for attendees and animals
Any fundraising or merchandise sales must align with the organization’s nonprofit mission
Subletting or sharing space without prior approval is not permitted

6. Space & Placement

Space is limited and not guaranteed upon application
Booth placement will be assigned at the discretion of event organizers
Carolina Kitty Con reserves the right to curate Rescue Row to ensure a balanced and diverse experience

7. Load-In / Load-Out

Rescues must adhere to assigned load-in and load-out times
Early breakdown is not permitted without prior approval

8. Code of Conduct

All participants are expected to act professionally and respectfully toward attendees, staff, and fellow vendors
Any disruptive, unsafe, or inappropriate behavior may result in removal from the event

9. Media & Promotion

By participating, rescues grant Carolina Kitty Con permission to use photos and videos taken at the event for promotional purposes

10. Acceptance & Changes

Submission of an application does not guarantee acceptance
Carolina Kitty Con reserves the right to update these terms at any time and will communicate any material changes