CHATSWORTH, Calif. – It’s not all fun and games at the annual AVN Adult Entertainment Expo. Sure, fans are there for a good time, but the hundreds of trade attendees come for a variety of other reasons, including to keep up with changing business realities in the adult industry. That’s why a robust slate of networking events and educational seminars is available every year.

The 2016 lineup embraces the gotta-know items and issues claiming headlines, hitting retail shelves or debuting on websites worldwide. The topics reflect current issues and preoccupations in the industry, and presenters intend to help both companies and individuals flourish in an ever-changing climate.

Wednesday, Jan. 20

Private Lives: Protecting Member Data (3-4 p.m.)
Hacking is a fact of life, with security breaches happening at all levels of the digital sphere, from healthcare databases to retail giants to adult dating sites. A panel of seasoned players will talk about how to protect clients’ and customers’ sensitive information.

Case Studies: Keeping Tabs on Changing Laws and Regulations (4-5 p.m.)
Condom regulations, the 2257 lawsuit, piracy battles, zoning challenges and challenges to freedom of speech…all of these issues affect the right and ability to produce and sell adult entertainment and pleasure products. A team of legal eagles will offer perspective on the latest developments.

Election 2016: Which Candidate is the Best Bet for the Adult Industry? (5-6 p.m.)
American voters will choose their next commander-in-chief in November 2016. A panel of politically active porn vets will discuss the pros and cons of the candidates seeking the presidency, as well as how the outcome of the election may affect the industry.

Thursday, Jan. 21

Trans Action: Exploring Trends in TS Erotica (1-2 p.m.)
More Americans than ever before are aware of, and open to interacting with, the transgender community. Learn more about this lively and profitable adult entertainment niche from producers and salespeople, both veterans and vibrant newcomers.

Empowering the Performer: How to be Your Own Boss (2-3 p.m.)
More than at any time in the past, adult performers have a wide array of opportunities to control their professional destiny. The discussion will include issues related to traditional adult entertainment work as well as webcamming and live chat, running websites and online stores, and working the gentlemen’s club circuit.

Porn or Erotica? Chasing that Indie Vibe (3-4 p.m.)
It’s famously said the difference between porn and erotica is lighting … but the truth is much more than that. We all know it when we see it, but just what qualities turn adult entertainment into something that could fit the film festival circuit?

Friday, Jan. 22

Love, Virtually: The Multidimensional World of VR (1-2 p.m.)
We’ve heard much about the promise at the intersection of virtual reality and adult entertainment. Now, at last, VR seems ready for its close-up. This seminar will explore what’s on the horizon.

Now Trending: What’s Hot, What’s Ahead (3-4 p.m.)
Fauxcest, hotwifing, feminist erotica, high-end IR, femdom, reality porn, GILFs. These are a few buzzwords that have been kicked around lately. A panel will discuss what’s selling, and why.

Saturday, Jan. 23

Consent Degrees: Yes, No and Everything in Between (1-2 p.m.)
Adult performers of all gender orientations operate in a world where they must create the illusion of ecstasy even though they may not be having a good time. A group of experts and industry veterans will discuss how the adult community can work to make sure performers, particularly young newcomers, are comfortable about speaking up if they’re not really down with what’s happening on and off set.

One of the largest adult trade shows in the world, the AVN Adult Entertainment Expo provides a unique experience for everyone within the adult entertainment industry as well as for those who desire to learn more and meet the biggest names in adult entertainment. The 2016 expo will give industry insiders and fans the opportunity to see the latest trends, new additions, and hottest men and women in the world under one roof at the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino Las Vegas Jan. 20-23.

More than 500 adult stars are expected to attend, more than 150 exhibitors have purchased floor space to showcase products and services, and 15 major parties and numerous networking events are scheduled.

The 2016 AVN Adult Entertainment Expo sets the stage for the 33rd annual AVN Awards Show, a gala event that will take place Jan. 23 at The Joint inside the Hard Rock.