8 Best DEI Conferences in 2026 to Attend

Diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEIB) initiatives have gained significant momentum over the past decade. While their foundations largely took root in the 1960s civil rights movement, today's programs now encompass broad inclusion strategies, each designed to holistically transform employee engagement, well-being, and organizational culture. For global companies, DEI is unquestionably a business-critical function.

However, while DEI roles and programs skyrocketed in demand in the early 2020s, rollbacks are occurring, largely in response to political and legal challenges. Still, for human resources leaders, DEI conferences offer the opportunity to share and discover new strategies for promoting diversity and inclusion in the workplace. 

Attendees can leverage insights from these events to not only advocate for DEI investments but also drive innovation, productivity, and decision-making informed by diverse perspectives.

This guide highlights the best DEI conferences to attend in 2026. As the world grows more interconnected, these valuable events can help you expand your knowledge and push for meaningful change.

Top Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion events in 2026

Next year brings a slate of standout DEI conferences packed with rich insights, networking opportunities, and interactive sessions. From widely acclaimed events like Workhuman Live to niche gatherings like the International Conference on Diversity in Organizations, Communities & Nations, each conference caters to diverse professional interests and goals.

DEI practitioners, HR leaders, academics, and rising professionals can all find valuable content at each of these events.

1. Workhuman Live Orlando

• Date: April 27-30, 2026
• Location: Orlando, Florida
• Event format: In-person
• Pricing: From $1595 (team discounts are also available) 
• Key focus: Employee engagement, inclusive workplace cultures, leadership development
• Notable speakers: Past speakers include Dr. Bernice A. King, Valeisha Butterfield-Jones (Former Global Head of Inclusion at Google), and Vernā Myers (VP of Inclusion Strategy at Netflix)
• Website: www.workhumanlive.com  
• Ideal for: HR and people leaders, CXOs, CHROs, people managers, culture curators, and other professionals who recognize the value of bringing more humanity to the modern workplace
• Register here: www.workhumanlive.com/pricing/

Why attend

Workhuman Live 2026 isn’t just about HR; it’s about reimagining how organizations build cultures of belonging. This four-day experience brings together global DEI leaders, behavioral scientists, and senior executives who are challenging traditional approaches to workplace equity. Through keynotes, interactive workshops, and storytelling sessions, you’ll explore how recognition, empathy, and data can unite to create more inclusive environments.

Attendees gain actionable insights for embedding DEIB into leadership development, talent management, and organizational culture. Whether you’re refining an existing inclusion strategy or building one from the ground up, you’ll leave with the insights, confidence, and community support to drive real change. Workhuman Live is where diversity meets innovation, and inclusion becomes the foundation for lasting impact.

Key takeaways

• Trailblazing keynote speakers 
• 52+ breakout sessions
• Interactive workshops
• Curated networking opportunities
• Peer recognition opportunities
• Professional development credits (PDCs)
• An integrated event app

2. d&i Leaders Global Workplace Inclusion Forum 2026

• Date: May 12-13, 2026
• Location: London, England, and online
• Event format: In-person or virtual
• Pricing: TBA - 2025 rates were £729 for in-house diversity, inclusion, and HR professionals; £879 for consultants, vendors, and solution/technology providers; £629 for public sector, nonprofit, NGO, and academic attendees.
• Key focus: DEI leadership, organizational culture, and inclusion strategies
• Notable speakers: TBA
• Website: dileaders.com/globalforum
• Ideal for: Senior in-house DEI and HR practitioners seeking advanced corporate inclusion strategies
• Register here: TBA

Why attend

For the past seven years, the D&I Leaders Global Forum has been one of the best DEI conferences for active practitioners, bringing together over 35 speakers and 450 attendees in 2025. In 2026, this premier event will return for another two days packed with opportunities to learn from top industry professionals. These thought leaders have previously come from Bloomberg, H&M, IKEA, Nestlé, and Netflix.

You'll be able to engage in one-on-one conversations with peers and ask questions during panel discussions. Plus, you'll hear plenty of real-life case studies from various sectors that you can replicate.

For business leaders seeking third-party solutions, this event also features exhibitors – including legal advisors, recruitment specialists, and workforce software providers – who can support your DEI initiatives.

Key takeaways

• Interactive panel discussions and Q&A sessions
• Dedicated networking sessions
• 11+ hours of live event recordings for purchase

3. Advancing Inclusivity in the Workplace Conference 2026

• Date: January 28, 2026
• Location: Manchester, England
• Event format: In-person
• Pricing: £349 for public sector, £599 for private sector, £249 for voluntary (nonprofit) sector
• Key focus: DEI leadership, inclusive workplaces, and mentorship
• Notable speakers: TBA
• Website: igpp.org.uk/event/Managing_Inclusivity_in_the_Workplace_Conference_2026
• Ideal for: Senior HR, DEI, and L&D leaders interested in shaping inclusive workplaces and public policy
• Register here: igpp.org.uk/checkout/order/354835 

Why attend

Interested in creating measurable cultural change? This DEI conference, presented by the Institute of Government & Public Policy (IGPP), is best known for driving expert-led discussions that shape public policies around diversity, equity, and inclusion. You can share your workplace inclusion insights to help accelerate the momentum of local and global DEI initiatives.

At the same time, this inclusion conference can support your own professional success. You'll learn about specific products, services, and practical strategies you can use to improve organizational culture, collaboration, and productivity. 

Plus, you'll discover new ways to build trust across your team through mentorship and allyship. This event is all about creating meaningful adjustments to your culture and systems that enhance employee engagement and business success.

If you're interested in the IGPP Continuing Professional Development (CPD) certification, this is a great opportunity to earn the required continuous learning hours. You'll make progress toward a valuable milestone while elevating your DEI practitioner skills.

Key takeaways

• IGPP Continuing Professional Development (CPD) points
• Policy-shaping discussions
• Practical tools and case studies

4. 2026 INDEX DEIB Conference

• Date: February 4-6, 2026
• Location: Salt Lake City, Utah
• Event format: In-person
• Pricing: $30 for welcome reception, $645 for conference
• Key focus: Diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging in education
• Notable speakers: Contact for details
• Website: indexgroups.org/event/2026-index-deib-conference
• Ideal for: Lead DEI practitioners looking to build inclusion at independent primary and secondary schools in the United States
• Register here: indexgroups.org/event/2026-index-deib-conference

Why attend

The INDEX DEIB Conference is catered to the priorities and concerns of independent schools, which operate with board oversight and no state government funding. The event is limited to fewer than 100 attendees. As a result, it encourages close collaboration between the leaders of these educational institutions, who are committed to uplifting diverse voices and creating cultures of belonging.

For full-time DEI professionals in the independent school sector, this conference is also a great opportunity to build strong connections with dedicated colleagues. You'll network with individuals who understand the exact challenges you're facing, whether related to DEI, funding, policy changes, or another rising concern.

Key takeaways

• Small-group conversations
• Networking opportunities
• Collaborative focus

5. 2026 DEI Empowerment Conference

• Date: TBA – usually early June
• Location: Online
• Event format: Virtual
• Pricing: Free for Washington state employees
• Key focus: DEI in the public sector, inclusive communities, and workforce equity
• Notable speakers: TBA
• Website: ofm.wa.gov/state-human-resources/inclusive-work-culture-and-belonging/washington-workforce-empowerment-collaborative/dei-empowerment-conference
• Ideal for: Washington state agency, board, and commission employees seeking DEI insights tailored to the public sector
• Register here: TBA

Why attend

Exclusively designed for Washington state employees, the DEI Empowerment Conference allows them to attend educational sessions tailored to real-world concerns. Each year, presenters explore topics like anti-racism, accessibility, and belonging from a hyperlocal lens.

The goal of this event is to create a better experience for government employees and local stakeholders. Plus, it offers programming that can help guests contribute to societal improvements across Washington state. Attending this diversity, equity, and inclusion conference gives you the chance to shape local culture and practices that strengthen surrounding communities.

Key takeaways

• Tailored presentations
• Welcome keynote
• Recorded sessions available to download for a limited time

6. 26th International Conference on Diversity in Organizations, Communities & Nations

• Date: May 27-29, 2026
• Location: Mexico City, Mexico, and online
• Event format: In-person or virtual
• Pricing: $245 for in-person passes ($195 for students), $145 for online passes ($95 for students), $195-$495 for presenter passes, discounts for returning members and Mexico residents available
• Key focus: Global DEI policies, community development, inclusive education, and organizational diversity
• Notable speakers: TBA
• Website: ondiversity.com/2026-conference
• Ideal for: DEI researchers and scholars interested in emerging frameworks and academic research
• Register here: ondiversity.com/2026-conference/registration

Why attend

The International Conference on Diversity in Organizations, Communities & Nations is the best DEI conference for global academics interested in discovering and sharing the latest diversity research. Beyond diversity in the workplace, presenters at this event explore how diverse individuals interact and are represented in society.

The 2026 conference will focus on four key themes:

• Identity and belonging
• Educating and learning in worlds of difference
• Organizational diversity
• Community diversity and governance

Both in-person and virtual attendees can participate in discussion groups, which drive long-term collaboration on solutions for key DEI issues.

For researchers who wish to present their own findings at the conference, membership in the Diversity in Organizations, Communities & Nations Research Network is included. Members receive opportunities to attend year-round programming, get published in industry-leading academic journals, and speak at future conferences.

Key takeaways

• Opportunities to present DEI research
• Academic discussion groups
• Professional association membership for presenters

7. Diversity & Inclusion Conference, 14th Edition

• Date: January 27, 2026
• Location: Manchester, England
• Event format: In-person
• Pricing: £599 for in-house professionals, £1099 for agencies and suppliers
• Key focus: DEI leadership, organizational strategy, and inclusive governance
• Notable speakers: TBA
• Website: thediversityconference.com
• Ideal for: Corporate DEI professionals seeking strategies to accelerate cultural change in the workplace
• Register here: thediversityconferences.com/manchester-ticket-prices

Why attend

Hosted by Global Insight Conferences, the Diversity & Inclusion Conference offers a full day of insights from nearly 30 industry leaders from internationally recognized brands. In past conferences, these professionals have included executives and directors from companies across sectors, including Amazon, AstraZeneca, Citi, Coca-Cola, DHL, Dr. Martens, and T-Mobile.

This biannual event is designed to be interactive. Attendees get the chance to engage with presenters and panelists through live polls and Q&As. Speakers will walk through the latest DEI trends, providing practical advice and case studies on topics like inclusive AI, legislative shifts, and employee well-being. Throughout, you'll be encouraged to participate, ask questions, and share your thoughts.

The Diversity & Inclusion Conference also serves as an excellent opportunity to network and collaborate with peers in the DEI field.

Key takeaways

• In-depth case studies
• Interactive sessions
• Networking opportunities for DEI professionals

8. 22nd Annual National Diversity & Leadership Conference

• 4Date: April 14-16, 2026
• Location: TBA
• Event format: TBA
• Pricing: $1,599-$2,599 for partial conference, $3,599 for full conference, $4,999 for VIP pass
• Key focus: Inclusive leadership, workplace diversity, and professional development
• Notable speakers: TBA
• Website: nationaldiversityconference.com/2026
• Ideal for: Senior business leaders interested in strengthening their DEI commitment and leadership skills
• Register here: nationaldiversityconference.com/2026/conference/registration (available soon for 2026)

Why attend

The National Diversity & Leadership Conference is one of the best DEI conferences for executives and decision-makers who want to inspire change in their organizations. A world-renowned diversity and inclusion annual event, it typically features an all-star lineup of keynote speakers. 

Previously, these have included former presidents Bill Clinton and Barack Obama, actor Tony Plana, NBA champion and entrepreneur Earvin "Magic" Johnson, and CEOs of Fortune 500 companies.

Throughout the conference, you can participate in thoughtful conversations with other senior leaders, challenging yourself to find ways to champion diversity and anti-racism, recognize privilege, and embrace multiculturalism at work. Thought leaders will also speak on how to align DEI initiatives with measurable business objectives.

In addition to DEI-focused activities, you'll be invited to numerous National Diversity Awards ceremonies and workshops designed to help you achieve your career goals. 

There will be general sessions about team-building, sponsorship, and climbing the career ladder. Up to 50 VIP passholders have the opportunity to attend exclusive events and meet-and-greets with keynote speakers, as well.

Key takeaways

• Internationally renowned speakers
• Roundtable discussions and workshops
• National Diversity Awards ceremony access

How are conferences driving DEI forward?

Conferences are offering spaces where thought leaders, professionals, and academics can share insights, exchange strategies, and collaborate on solutions for pressing challenges. Each presentation and workshop can help professionals benchmark their efforts against industry standards and learn from others’ successes and challenges.

These events also help leaders and advocates stay informed about the latest developments. In 2026, there are several key trends poised to dominate conversations at the best DEI conferences:

• Intersectionality: This refers to understanding that individuals have overlapping identities, such as race, gender, and socio-economic status. DEI conferences in 2026 can help practitioners develop policies and practices that address the complex needs of people at the intersections of marginalized groups.
• Data-driven decision-making: Organizations are striving to make more objective, measurable progress in their DEI goals. Leading DEI conferences will offer programming that explores how to use data analytics to evaluate the effectiveness of DEI initiatives, allowing for continuous improvement and stakeholder buy-in.
• Global perspectives: With the global economy growing more interconnected and dispersed workplaces being a norm, DEI conferences will highlight how organizations are navigating international collaboration challenges. Additionally, they may explore how diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives are implemented in different cultural contexts.

Importantly, DEI conferences equip professionals with the tools needed to implement the latest DEI strategies. Attendees leave these events with actionable case studies, frameworks, and strategies that can be directly applied in their organizations. 

The best events also empower professionals with personalized insights – often through workshops and discussion groups – that strengthen their ability to adapt and build inclusive, equitable environments.

Conclusion

As challenges to DEI persist, conferences will remain a crucial catalyst for progress. These gatherings, from Workhuman Live to the Diversity & Inclusion Conference, help professionals explore the latest trends and strategies. Plus, they offer a platform for sharing perspectives and making productive connections with others in the field. This collaboration is key to turning DEI theory into action.

In 2026, making it your goal to attend a top DEI conference can elevate your success at your workplace. Choose an event (or multiple) that covers topics important to your industry and role – especially if you're facing particular roadblocks in your day-to-day life. 

Whether you're a seasoned DEI practitioner or just beginning your journey, these diversity, equity, and inclusion events will inspire and empower you to advocate for change and bring diverse perspectives to the forefront of your organization.

About Alex Yap-Dubois

Alex is a workplace storyteller with a knack for breaking big ideas into clear, actionable insights. As an author on the Workhuman Live Blog, he focuses on list-style articles that bring clarity to the most pressing workplace trends, from recognition and culture to leadership and the future of work. With a background in digital strategy and content creation, he approaches every topic with a balance of research and practical takeaways, helping readers find inspiration they can put into action right away.