January 22, 2026 | (Denver, CO) — STIMULATE and the Sexual Health Alliance (SHA) are proud to announce a strategic year-long partnership for 2026, designed to strengthen, connect, and advance the expansive sexual wellness and education community.
This collaboration brings together two mission-driven organizations with a shared commitment to professional development, continued education, expert leadership, product connectivity and meaningful industry impact. By bridging their respective communities, STIMULATE and SHA aim to create expanded opportunities for professionals across sexual wellness, retail, medical leaders, sex educators and more.
What the SHA + STIMULATE Partnership Will Look Like
As part of the 2026 partnership, Sexual Health Alliance will participate as a strategic, year-round partner within the STIMULATE ecosystem. SHA will be featured as part of the STIMULATE+Educate experience at STIMULATE’s flagship trade show and conference August 3+4, 2026 – including the offering of SHA-sponsored AASECT Continuing Education credits, providing a significant benefit for sex educators and professionals seeking additional AASECT CEs while attending STIMULATE.
SHA will also participate in a virtual STIMULATE+Workshop experience in 2026, further contributing to the educational and professional values of both STIMULATE and SHA. The partnership also includes reciprocal engagement and visibility. STIMULATE will support SHA as part of one of their 2026 Business Summits, and also attend the Sexual Health Alliance Sexological Conference taking place October 15–17, 2026, in Denver, Colorado.
This year-long collaboration will continue to evolve, with additional shared initiatives, benefits, and opportunities to be announced throughout 2026.
“This partnership represents exactly what STIMULATE stands for — collaboration, education, and long-term professional growth,” shares Nicole Hoffman, Founder of STIMULATE. “Working alongside Sexual Health Alliance allows us to expand opportunities for learning, leadership, and community in a way that truly serves the professionals shaping the future of sexual wellness in retail, medical, therapy, lifestyle and more. We are truly grateful that SHA is a resource with can share with our STIMULATE community with confidence, credibility, and connection.”
By aligning their expertise and audiences, STIMULATE and Sexual Health Alliance are reinforcing a shared vision: empowering professionals with the tools, education, and connections needed to lead confidently in a rapidly evolving industry.
“The Sexual Health Alliance and STIMULATE educational partnership creates powerful momentum for both of our communities,” said Heather McPherson, Founder of Sexual Health Alliance. “Together, we’re expanding access to meaningful sexual health education, connecting our communities with leading sexual wellness brands and business support, and providing an opportunity for professionals to connect with others who share our passion for sexual health and wellbeing.”
By aligning their expertise and audiences, STIMULATE and Sexual Health Alliance are reinforcing a shared vision: empowering professionals with the tools, education, and connections needed to lead confidently in a rapidly evolving industry.
For media inquiries, interviews, or additional information, please contact email stimulate@retailminded.com.
About STIMULATE
STIMULATE is a leading B2B event dedicated to elevating the sexual wellness, intimacy, and modern retail industries through education, community, innovation, and connection. Known for its inclusive environment and industry-forward programming, STIMULATE offers retailers, brands, and professionals meaningful opportunities to grow, learn, and lead. Returning to Nashville in August 2026, STIMULATE will feature more than 40 dynamic sessions, an exclusive ASK THE DOCTORS track, and over 100 exhibiting brands spanning men’s health, feminine care, pleasure products, and lifestyle innovation – plus an Emerging Brand experience. Designed for retailers, healthcare professionals, educators, and creators, STIMULATE continues to elevate the conversation around sexual wellness with a modern, inclusive, and evidence-informed approach while making product accessibility a key part of their overall mission.
About Sexual Health Alliance
The Sexual Health Alliance (SHA) is a leading education, training, and certification organization dedicated to advancing the field of sexual health and wellness. SHA supports professionals across disciplines—including educators, clinicians, retailers, and advocates—by providing evidence-based education, AASECT-aligned continuing education, professional certifications, business development resources, and community support. Through conferences, business summits, online learning, and industry partnerships, SHA is committed to elevating professional standards, expanding access to credible sexual health education, and empowering professionals to build sustainable, impactful careers while serving diverse communities with integrity and confidence.
For media inquiries, interviews, or additional information, please contact email stimulate@retailminded.com.
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