Populating multiple drop down lists with different options

Hi all,

I am creating a tool for users where they will select multiple options using drop-down lists. There are ~150 drop down lists total, and each list needs to have different options in the drop down list.

I have a master list with ~270 rows that lists each option for each drop-down menu. What I am envisioning is some version of a vlookup where it takes the category listed and then populates the drop-down list with each option associated with that category on the list.

Example 1:
Category: Conferences

Master List:
Conferences Level 1
Conferences Level 2
Conferences Level 3

[So, the drop down list next to "Conferences" would contain Level 1, Level 2, Level 3]

Example 2:
Category: Event Production

Master List:
Event Production Level 1
Event Production Level 2

[So, the drop down list next to "Event Production" would contain Level 1, Level 2]

Any help/ideas would be greatly appreciated!

Is your ask that you want a macro that will create the data validation specification for you? So you don't have to do it manually?

Yes, exactly. Sorry for leaving that very important part out.

I am looking for a macro/some other functionality that will automate this process given the large number of drop down lists. Additionally, the data will change in the future, and I want to avoid manually doing this process each time.

This should do it. Assumption is that the drop down lists on User Tools sheet have no blanks between them.
The comments in the VBA code should be describe what's being done
DropDownDefn.xlsm

This should do it. It abends if there is a drop down with no definitions and stops further definition. You have at least one situation (Regional Models)
It uses the x in the column 4 columns to the right of the drop down to determine if it should define a drop down list - this handles the issue with headings.
If any of the columns change, the macro has to be adjusted.
DropDown2.xlsm

Would it be possible for you to copy and paste the code directly? There appears to be 3 macros in the attached spreadsheet (dropdownlists.UpdateDropDowns, Module1.UpdateDowns, test), and when I copy the code into the real tool, it's coming up as an error.

UpdateDropDowns in module1 is the macro that should be executed. It calls Function DefValList & Function ColToLtr
You need to copy everything in module1 from the beginning to the just prior to sub test

The sub test can be deleted.