Best Leadership Conferences in 2026 to Elevate Your Career

Leadership is a skill that must be nurtured and developed over a lifetime. Great leaders are always listening, learning, and growing – and one of the best places to practice is at an inspiring leadership conference. 

Conferences offer an opportunity to network with your peers, seek new opportunities, and learn from experts in your industry. Whether it’s a week-long global conference or a free webinar, taking advantage of these events is the best way to invest in your career. 

If you want to develop your leadership skills and advance your career in 2026, now is the time to get started. This post will dive into 15 of the best leadership conferences in 2026, plus tips on choosing the right conference for your goals, industry, and career.

Best leadership conferences in the U.S.

Some of the best annual leadership events take place in the U.S. From celebrity keynote speakers to unique interactive workshops, these conferences make leadership development exciting. Top U.S. events like Workhuman Live are designed to reinvigorate your career.

Here are a few of the best U.S.-based leadership events to look forward to in 2026.

1. Workhuman Live Orlando

• Dates: April 27-30, 2026
• Location: Orlando, Florida
• Event format: 4-day in-person conference
• Pricing: From $1595 (team discounts are also available) 
• Key focus: Equipping industry leaders and emerging executives with tools, connections, and inspiration to shape the future of work.
• Notable speakers: Past speakers include Trevor Noah, Adam Grant, Verna Myers, and leaders of several Fortune 500 companies.
• Website: https://www.workhumanlive.com/ 
• Ideal for: Professionals, particularly in HR, who want to meet with C-suite executives and gain insight to help them stand out in their industry
• Register here

Why attend

If you are ready to accelerate your leadership journey in 2026, Workhuman Live is the place to be. This four-day experience brings together industry leaders, senior executives, and global thought leaders who are shaping the future of work. Attendees gain practical insights from some of the brightest minds in business while also discovering new ways to create more human-centered workplaces.

From high-energy keynote sessions to intimate workshops and breakout discussions, the agenda is designed to inspire and empower professionals at every level. You will have countless opportunities to connect with peers, exchange ideas, and build relationships that last well beyond the event.

Workhuman Central, the interactive hub of the conference, adds another layer of collaboration and networking that makes the event stand out.

Workhuman Live is not just a conference. It is a transformative experience that equips professionals with the tools, community, and inspiration they need to thrive. Whether you are just beginning your leadership journey or operating at the senior executive level, this is the event that will leave you motivated, connected, and ready to lead with purpose.

2. FBLA Collegiate National Leadership Conference

• Dates: June 6-8, 2026
• Location: Las Vegas, Nevada
• Event format: 3-day in-person conference
• Pricing: TBA  
• Key focus: Fostering leadership skills in college students through workshops and competitions
• Notable speakers: TBA
• Website: https://www.fbla.org/fbla-national-leadership-conference/ 
• Ideal for: College students who want to develop leadership skills and gain an advantage in their prospective career fields

Why attend

Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) holds annual conferences for college students to gather, network, listen to speakers, and compete in leadership events. This is an excellent opportunity for a college student hoping to gain a competitive edge. 

The next collegiate national leadership conference will be held in Las Vegas. FBLA also hosts a national leadership conference for middle and high school students, which will take place in San Antonio, Texas, in June 2026.

3. GMAC Leadership Conference

• Dates: January 13-16, 2026
• Location: Carlsbad, California
• Event format: 3-day in-person roundtable conference
• Pricing: TBA 
• Key focus: Graduate school business curricula, leadership methods, and current events and challenges in academia
• Notable speakers: This is a roundtable event, meaning the attendees are the speakers.
• Website: https://www.gmac.com/professional-development-and-careers/pd-opportunities/leadership-conference 
• Ideal for: Academic leaders, deans, and administrative program directors who want to connect with peers and discuss modern leadership and teaching methods

Why attend

The Graduate Management Admissions Council (GMAC) hosts an annual conference for administrative deans and directors in graduate programs. This conference, also known as the Graduate Business Curriculum Roundtable, is a chance for administrative professionals to collaborate on leadership ideas that will shape the future of graduate business programs. 

4. EntreLeadership Summit 2026 

• Dates: May 17-20, 2026
• Location: Lake Buena Vista, Florida
• Event format: 4-day in-person conference
• Pricing: The event offers 4 access tiers: general, standard, preferred, and platinum. Contact event staff for exact pricing. 
• Key focus: Leveling up your leadership, team, business, and network
• Notable speakers: Past speakers have included financial and business experts, including Dave Ramsey, Rachel Cruze, and Dr. John Delony
• Website: https://www.ramseysolutions.com/shows/summit 
• Ideal for: Small business owners and team leaders who want to grow their network, learn new practical strategies, and get inspired by some of the world’s top financial experts

Why attend

This year’s EntreLeadership summit is a 4-day learning experience at Disney’s Coronado Springs resort. Hosted by Ramsey Solutions, a financial solutions company, the summit is designed to help professionals level up in their careers. It’s a great opportunity to grow your network and boost your confidence as a leader or entrepreneur. 

Global leadership conferences in 2026

Great leadership has no borders. One of the best ways to expand your horizons, get exposed to new cultures and ideas, and grow your network is to attend an international conference. 

Here are a few of the most exciting global leadership conferences scheduled in 2026.

5. Forbes 30/50 Summit

• Dates: March 2026 (exact dates TBA)
• Location: Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
• Event format: 4-day in-person conference
• Pricing: TBA 
• Key focus: This annual event focuses on women’s entrepreneurship and leadership. The specific focus of the 2026 event is mentoring.
• Notable speakers: Past speakers included Deepika Padukone, Lynsey Addario, Marsai Martin, and Sheryl Lee Ralph.
• Website: https://www.forbes.com/connect/event/2026-forbes-3050-summit/ 
• Ideal for: Women in positions of leadership or striving to reach new heights in their careers

Why attend

The Forbes 30/50 conference is a powerful celebration of women leaders making an impact across the business world. Designed to inspire and empower, this event brings together celebrities and global business leaders to discuss the challenges facing women in the workplace and novel ways to uplift women worldwide.

The conference in Abu Dhabi will focus on mentoring: creating bonds that last a lifetime and working together to educate participants. This women in leadership conference can be a life-changing opportunity for women who want to grow their careers and connect with international politicians, business owners, and peers. 

6. World Business Forum

• Dates: November 2026 (exact dates TBA)
• Location: New York City, United States
• Event format: 2-day in-person conference + digital/on-demand content
• Pricing: TBA (early bird/group rates typical)
• Key focus: Exploring leadership, innovation, and strategic growth topics led by senior executives and global thought leaders
• Notable speakers: Past speakers have included Brené Brown, Adam Grant, Simone Biles, Scott Galloway, and Ayanna Howard
• Website: https://wbf.wobi.com/wbf/wbf-nyc/
• Ideal for: Senior executives, industry leaders, mid-level managers looking to scale their leadership journey

Why attend

If you want to see where business leadership is headed, the World Business Forum is your front-row ticket in 2026. This is one of the most influential leadership conferences for industry leaders and senior executives who want more than just motivation; they want ideas they can implement.

You’ll hear from global thought leaders who are shaping the future of management, innovation, culture, and performance. Whether through big keynotes or breakout sessions, the agenda is designed to match you wherever you are on your leadership journey, whether you’re steering teams, influencing company strategy, or advising boards.

You’ll leave not just with soundbites, but with actionable insights, fresh perspectives, and connections that extend across industries. If your goal for 2026 is to push past the status quo and build the future of leadership, this is the event you’ll regret passing up.

7. Leadership Exchange 2026

• Dates: June 1-5, 2026
• Location: Ottawa, Canada
• Event format: Biannual week-long learning event
• Pricing: TBA – registration to open in October 2026
• Key focus: Inspiring a new generation of world leaders, mobilizing for inclusivity and collective solutions
• Notable speakers: TBA
• Website: https://gle.world/events/leadership-exchange-2026/ 
• Ideal for: Anyone who wants to grow their network, discuss some of the world’s most pressing challenges, and get to know their global peers

Why attend

The Global Leadership Exchange (GLE) hosts a week-long in-person event every 2 years. 2026’s conference will be a chance for GLE members to gather and discuss pressing human rights issues. This is an opportunity not just to network with overseas peers but to be a part of the conversations that will drive solutions to make the world more inclusive.

8. AAIE 60th Annual Global Leadership Conversation

• Dates: February 2-4, 2026
• Location: Toronto, Canada
• Event format: 4-day in-person conference
• Pricing: TBA 
• Key focus: Leadership in international education, promoting effective and innovative education practices, and building more diverse, inclusive schools worldwide
• Notable speakers: TBA
• Website: https://www.aaie.org/events/2026-conference 
• Ideal for: School leaders and educators wanting to network and learn more about current trends in international education

Why attend

The Association for the Advancement of International Education (AAIE) is a global community of schools and education professionals. In 2026, AAIE is hosting its 60th annual global leadership conference. The goal of this conference is to celebrate the last 60 years and look toward a better future in the world of education. 

This is an excellent opportunity for educators and school leaders interested in improving the state of education worldwide. It can inspire you to make a change and provide you with new, innovative ideas to take back to your school.

9. Global Leadership Summit 2026

• Dates: August 6-7, 2026
• Location: Online and 400+ in-person locations throughout the U.S. and Canada
• Event format: 2-day in-person or online conference
• Pricing: $149 to attend in-person or online, $219 to join the studio audience  
• Key focus: Faith-based leadership in religious and business settings
• Notable speakers: Past speakers included Craig Groeschel, Thasunda Brown Duckett, Nick Saban, and Christine Caine.
• Website: https://www.globalleadership.org/
• Ideal for: Christian entrepreneurs and working professionals who want to develop their leadership skills, network with peers, and get inspired in a faith-based setting

Why attend

The Global Leadership Summit is an annual training program designed to help entrepreneurs, professionals, and teams grow as leaders. This is a faith-based event, so it might not be ideal for everyone – but if you want to hear from religious as well as business leaders, the Global Leadership Summit is a great opportunity to get inspired and grow your network. 

This is also one of the most affordable conferences on this list. With over 400 locations to attend in person and an online option, you can connect with international peers without worrying about the travel costs. 

Industry-specific leadership conferences in 2026

Most professional leadership skills are universal and will support your career growth in any industry. But if you’re looking for discussions, demonstrations, workshops, and networking opportunities particularly relevant to your career path, attend an industry-specific conference. 

Here are a few of the most exciting leadership conferences for select industries in 2026. 

10. NBAA Leadership Conference

• Dates: February 2-4, 2026
• Location: San Antonio, Texas
• Event format: 3-day in-person conference
• Pricing: Early bird pricing starts at $1,940 for NBAA members and $2,330 for non-members.
• Key focus: Strengthening leadership and teamwork for professionals in the business aviation industry
• Notable speakers: TBA
• Website: https://nbaa.org/events/2026-nbaa-leadership-conference 
• Ideal for: Aviation professionals at all stages in their career who want to hear the latest industry insights and develop their leadership skills

Why attend

If you’re in the business aviation industry – whether you’re just starting out in your career or hoping to level up to the next step – this is the can’t-miss conference of 2026. The National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) conference is an annual opportunity to network, learn from experts, and bring home actionable skills that will drive your career growth and strengthen your team. 

You don’t have to be a member of the NBAA to attend this conference, but members will have access to discounted passes and other benefits. 

11. NEWH Leadership Conference

• Dates: March 26-28, 2026
• Location: Washington, D.C.
• Event format: 3-day in-person conference
• Pricing: TBA 
• Key focus: Trending topics, leadership skills, and career opportunities for professionals in the hospitality industry
• Notable speakers: Victoria LaBalme, renowned speaker and communications strategist
• Website: https://newh.org/2026-leadership-conference/ 
• Ideal for: Hospitality professionals at all stages in their careers interested in networking and discussing the latest industry-relevant topics

Why attend

The hospitality industry faces unique challenges and changes in 2026. For a chance to discuss these topics, hear from industry leaders, and access international career opportunities, check out the NEWH leadership conference. This is a great opportunity for anyone wanting to level up their career in hospitality. 

12. ASC Nurse Leadership Conference

• Dates: April 16-17, 2026
• Location: Dallas, Texas  
• Event format: 2-day in-person conference
• Pricing: Early bird pricing starts at $850 per person. 
• Key focus: Career development for ASC nurse leaders
• Notable speakers: Past speakers have included industry-leading professionals and comedians. 
• Website: https://ascnurseleadership.com/ 
• Ideal for: ASC nurses in leadership positions or hoping to advance into a leadership position

Why attend

If you are an Ambulatory Surgery Center (ASC) nurse or a hospital administrator, the annual ASC nurse conference offers keynote speakers, breakout sessions, and workshops to help nurses progress in their careers. It’s an excellent opportunity to discuss some of the common challenges ASC nurses face while learning to become better leaders in your unique industry. 

13. Winter Leadership Summit – CREW Network

• Dates: February 5-6, 2026
• Location: Costa Mesa, California
• Event format: 2-day in-person conference
• Pricing: TBA
• Key focus: Leadership development for Commercial Real Estate Women (CREW) Network leaders and members.
• Notable speakers: TBA
• Website: https://crewnetwork.org/events/2026/2026-winter-leadership-summit 
• Ideal for: Women in commercial real estate who have joined their local CREW Network chapter or lead a chapter.

Why attend

CREW Network is an organization that supports women in commercial real estate nationwide. This leadership conference is an opportunity for CREW Network leaders and members to get together, discuss pressing real estate topics, and become better leaders for their chapters. 

Free leadership conferences in 2026

Attending a leadership conference is one of the best things you can do for your career – but it can also be expensive. If you want to boost your leadership skills and grow as a professional without spending your hard-earned cash, here are a few opportunities to look forward to in 2026. 

14. ASSP Leadership Conferences

• Dates: March 10 & May 19, 2026
• Location: Online
• Event format: Virtual leadership conferences
• Pricing: Free 
• Key focus: Promoting leadership skills in safety professionals and volunteers
• Notable speakers: TBA
• Website: https://www.assp.org/education/conferences/leadership-conference 
• Ideal for: Volunteers interested in supporting the cause of ASSP: promoting occupational and environmental safety standards in the U.S.

Why attend

The American Society of Safety Professionals (ASSP) hosts free leadership webinars throughout the year to help safety professionals and volunteers develop practical leadership skills they can take back to the workplace. Not only are these conferences free, but they’re easily accessible online and offer a great chance to grow in your career as a safety professional. 

As of now, the ASSP has two free leadership conferences scheduled in 2026: “Developing Conversational Intelligence” on March 10, and “Leading through Conflict” on May 19. ASSP volunteers can register and attend for free. 

15. UNLOADED Annual Leadership Conference

• Dates: May 22-23, 2026
• Location: Dallas, Texas
• Event format: 2-day in-person conference
• Pricing: Free admission is offered to the first 50 applicants. 
• Key focus: Inspiring better leadership in entrepreneurs, faith-based leaders, and working professionals 
• Notable speakers: TBA
• Website: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/2026-unloaded-annual-leadership-conference-tickets-1424975503089 
• Ideal for: Young professionals and entrepreneurs who want to elevate their careers through networking, inspiring talks, and workshops

Why attend

The annual leadership conference from UNLOADED is an educational opportunity for professionals in all industries. Learn universal leadership skills and get inspired by renowned speakers while forging new professional connections. 

This conference is free for a limited time. Register as soon as possible to get a free pass. 

16. Dale Carnegie Leadership Webinars

• Dates: Ongoing, 2026
• Location: Online
• Event format: Online webinars with free access
• Pricing: Free 
• Key focus: This webinar series covers various leadership topics for business, entrepreneurs, and personal development.
• Notable speakers: Speakers vary for each webinar.
• Website: https://www.dalecarnegie.com/en/resources/webinars 
• Ideal for: Anyone who wants to grow as a leader or professional

Why attend

Dale Carnegie, a longstanding leader in the personal development industry, offers a series of online webinars. You can access these sessions for free throughout the year to continuously develop your leadership skills. 

The webinars feature a wide range of topics and speakers. You can access the lessons online any time and gain practical, empowering knowledge to elevate your career.  

How to choose the right leadership conference for you

On a tight schedule in 2026? If you can only make it to one leadership conference, choose the right one to make it count. 

There is no such thing as the “best” leadership conference for everyone. Conferences like Workhuman Live offer universal experiences that can appeal to professionals in all industries. However, the best conference for you is the one that aligns with your career goals, industry, and aspirations.

Here are a few tips to help you choose the most beneficial leadership conference in 2026. 

Define your goals 

Conferences can be a lot of fun – but that isn’t the main reason you’re going. Any leadership conference you attend should be a good fit for your long-term and short-term goals. 

To make sure you’re choosing the right conference, start by defining your:

• Career goals: Will this conference provide you with practical insight and skills that will help progress your career?
• Conference goals: What are you hoping to gain from this specific conference? Consider networking opportunities, skills development, lessons in the latest technology, and resume-boosting workshops. 

Target your industry

Conferences in your industry will offer targeted opportunities for career growth. However, just because a conference isn’t specific to your industry doesn’t mean it won’t support your career path. Whichever you're attending, look for workshops, networking opportunities, and discussion topics that are relevant to your industry. 

For example, Workhuman Live is an HR conference, but it offers connections with leading companies, discussions about AI technology, and actionable leadership lessons. It’s an experience that will benefit people leaders of all industries.

Consider your leadership level

Some conferences are ideal for executive-level leaders. Others are designed for aspiring entrepreneurs or young professionals. Choose a conference that fits your current leadership level to make sure you get actionable, relevant lessons. A conference tailored to your position also means you’ll have a chance to meet peers from other companies, industries, or countries.

Want to rub elbows with higher-level executives? You're in luck – many leadership conferences provide a platform to network with speakers and company leaders. You’ll get to make those strategic connections through workshops, breakout sessions, celebrations, and mealtimes. 

Develop your skills by learning from world-class leaders

Strengthening your leadership abilities starts with learning from the best, and the 2026 conference calendar offers no shortage of opportunities. From global gatherings to niche industry events, these conferences give leaders and professionals of all backgrounds the chance to gain knowledge, expand networks, and return to work with fresh energy.

Each event promises valuable connections and actionable insights you can immediately apply to your career. But if you only have time for one conference in 2026, make it Workhuman Live.

With a full schedule of keynotes, breakout sessions, and networking opportunities, it goes beyond inspiration to deliver the tools you need to lead with purpose. Spots are filling quickly - secure your place now and invest in your leadership journey.

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.