The Diving Equipment and Marketing Association (DEMA) has announced an expansion of its 2025 Disaster Assistance Program, extending support to DEMA-Member exhibitors and buyers in the Philippines affected by Typhoon Tino.
The program, which was originally activated on October 29 to assist those impacted by Hurricane Melissa, has now been broadened to include members across the Philippines as recovery efforts continue.
“DEMA’s Disaster Assistance Program funds are available to DEMA Member Exhibitors at DEMA Show 2025 who are located in declared disaster areas following Hurricane Melissa and Typhoon Tino,” said Tom Ingram, President and CEO of DEMA. “One registered Buyer from each DEMA-Member operation located in these designated areas is also eligible for support, helping them attend the show and continue accessing the products and services they need to sustain their businesses.”
The association has designated assistance for DEMA-Member exhibitors and registered buyers located in regions most affected by Hurricane Melissa and Typhoon Tino, including the Bahamas, Dominican Republic, Haiti, Jamaica, the Philippines, and Turks and Caicos.
Helping Exhibitors Return to the Show Floor
Through the Exhibitor Assistance Program, DEMA aims to help member companies that planned to exhibit at DEMA Show 2025 but have experienced disruptions due to recent storms. The initiative provides resources to assist exhibitors in getting to Orlando and maintaining their presence at the world’s largest trade-only diving event.
Eligible exhibitors can apply for assistance on site at DEMA Show 2025 by visiting DEMA Central (Booth #421)before the show concludes on Friday, November 14, 2025.
Supporting Buyers from Affected Regions
The Buyer Assistance Program also offers practical help for registered Buyers from DEMA-Member organizations located in the impacted areas. The goal is to make it easier for dive industry professionals to attend the show and rebuild important business connections after being affected by natural disasters.
To qualify, Buyers must be registered for DEMA Show 2025, stay within the official DEMA Show hotel block, and provide appropriate documentation by the deadline set by the association.
Continuing a Tradition of Industry Support
Created in 2004, the DEMA Disaster Assistance Program has long served as a safety net for DEMA-Member companies affected by natural disasters that could hinder their ability to promote their products, services, and destinations at the annual DEMA Show.
With this latest expansion, DEMA reinforces its ongoing commitment to the global dive community by helping professionals recover, reconnect, and continue driving the industry forward.
For more details or to apply, members can visit DEMA Central (Booth #421) during DEMA Show 2025 in Orlando.
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