Your calendar’s filling up fast. Between tax season, client deadlines, and managing your growing team, planning which conferences to attend might feel like another task on an endless to-do list. But here’s the reality: the right conference can transform how you run your practice.
We’ve spent years attending these events ourselves from AICPA ENGAGE’s massive exhibit halls to Scaling New Heights’ intimate breakout sessions. This guide cuts through the noise to bring you eight conferences where accounting firm owners and managers actually learn strategies they’ll use next Monday morning.
Whether you’re looking to scale your 10-person team to 50, finally automate those repetitive workflows, or network with peers facing the same challenges you are, 2026 offers conferences designed specifically for practice management, not just technical accounting updates.
How do you choose the one accounting conference 2026 offers to attend among the hundreds of conferences made for accountants, CFOs, bookkeepers, and CPAs?
One of the best options is to talk to others and ask where they are going. Another option is checking out social media and the statistics of attendees of different accounting conferences. But where to find the list of conferences even happening? We’ve got you covered. Here are the most anticipated accounting seminars across the USA for 2026, their dates, locations, speakers, and descriptions.
Looking for conferences outside the USA? Check out our guide to European accounting conferences.
1. AICPA & CIMA ENGAGE 2026
Dates: June 8-11, 2026
Location: ARIA Resort & Casino, Las Vegas, NV
CPE Credits: Up to 42
Price from: $1,995 (AICPA/CIMA members)
Website: aicpa-cimaengage.com
The profession’s largest annual gathering returns to Las Vegas for its 10th anniversary edition with the theme “Bigger. Better. Bolder.” Over 4,000 accounting and finance professionals from across the country converge for four days of learning, networking, and exploring what’s next in the profession.
ENGAGE 2026 offers nine specialized tracks covering everything from practice management and technology to leadership development and advisory services. Whether you’re a managing partner looking to modernize your firm or a senior manager building toward partnership, you’ll find relevant content that goes beyond technical updates.
Why attend for practice management:
- Technology and automation sessions focusing on AI implementation and workflow optimization
- Practice management track specifically designed for firm owners and operations leaders
- Advisory services content to expand your service offerings beyond compliance
- Exhibit hall featuring the latest accounting technology and practice management tools
- Networking opportunities with peers from firms of all sizes
What sets it apart: The hybrid format gives you flexibility—attend in-person for the full networking experience or join virtually if travel isn’t feasible. With up to 42 CPE credits available, you can satisfy a significant portion of your annual requirements while building relationships that last beyond the conference floor.
The conference brings together standard setters, tech innovators, and practice leaders in one place. You’ll hear about regulatory changes before they hit your firm and see technology demos that solve problems you’re facing right now.
2. Scaling New Heights 2026
Dates: June 14-17, 2026
Location: Orlando Marriott World Center, Orlando, FL
CPE Credits: NASBA-registered
Theme: “Strange New World”
Website: woodard.com/scaling-new-heights
If there’s one conference designed specifically for tech-savvy accounting firm owners focused on practice management, it’s Scaling New Heights. This isn’t about the latest GAAP update—it’s about building a firm that runs efficiently and profitably while delivering exceptional client service.
Woodard Events has built a reputation for bringing together the profession’s most innovative firm owners. The numbers tell the story: 86% of attendees are firm owners or decision-makers, and 25% have teams of 10 or more professionals. You’ll be learning alongside peers running firms exactly like yours.
2026 Keynote Speakers:
- Dr. Daniel Susskind – Bestselling author and expert on AI, automation, and the future of work
- April Rinne – Global change navigator and “flux mindset” expert
Why this conference matters for your practice:
- Main-stage sessions from accounting technology leaders and successful firm owners
- Over 100 technology exhibitors showcasing the latest practice management solutions
- Practical workshops on client advisory services, pricing strategies, and team management
- Peer networking with firm owners facing the same scaling challenges you are
- Exposure to cutting-edge accounting technology before it becomes mainstream
What attendees say: The “Strange New World” theme reflects where the profession is heading—AI integration, virtual service delivery, and advisory services expansion. Scaling New Heights prepares you for these changes with actionable strategies, not theoretical concepts.
The conference creates an environment where admitting you don’t have all the answers is welcomed. Firm owners share actual numbers, failures, and successes in ways they never would in their local markets.
3. GrowCon 2026
Dates: May 4-6, 2026
Location: Downtown Hilton, Salt Lake City, UT
CPE Credits: Available via Earmark partnership
Format: Main-stage only (no breakouts)
Website: universalaccountingschool.com/growcon-2026
GrowCon takes a different approach. Instead of multiple breakout sessions where you’re constantly choosing what to miss, every attendee experiences the same main-stage content together. This creates a shared experience and makes networking conversations more meaningful—everyone heard the same insights you did.
Exclusively for firm owners, GrowCon focuses on the business of running an accounting practice, not the technical work. If you’re trying to scale from 10 to 50 employees, build leadership teams, or eventually sell your firm, this conference addresses those specific challenges.
Core topics include:
- Marketing strategies that actually bring in quality clients
- Production systems that increase billable hours without burning out your team
- Hiring and retention in a competitive talent market
- Partnership structures and compensation models
- Exit planning and firm valuation
Why the main-stage format works: You’re not worried about missing important sessions. You’re not splitting up with your team to cover different tracks. Everyone’s in the same room, learning the same frameworks, which makes implementation easier when you return to the office.
The conference attracts firm owners committed to growth, not just maintaining the status quo. Conversations during breaks and evening networking often prove as valuable as the stage content.
4. Digital CPA Conference 2026
Dates: December 6-9, 2026
Location: San Diego, CA (+ Live Online option)
CPE Credits: Yes
Price Range: $1,395 – $1,895 (early bird available)
Website: cpa.com/digital-cpa
Digital transformation isn’t optional anymore—it’s how firms survive and thrive. The Digital CPA Conference, organized by CPA.com and AICPA, focuses entirely on helping firms navigate technology adoption, automation, and digital service delivery.
Four specialized tracks:
- Client Accounting Services (CAS) – The largest track with 11 sessions covering advisory services expansion
- Audit – Modern approaches to audit technology and risk assessment
- Tax – Automation tools and strategies for tax preparation and planning
- Business & Leadership – Managing the human side of digital transformation
Why attend:
- In-depth sessions on accounting technology implementation, not just product demos
- Real case studies from firms that successfully digitized their operations
- Practical guidance on client communication during technology transitions
- Hybrid format allows your entire team to participate regardless of location
What sets it apart: This conference acknowledges that technology adoption is challenging. You’ll find sessions addressing change management, staff training, and client education—the real obstacles to modernization that vendors don’t talk about.
The December timing works well for planning next year’s technology investments and training initiatives. You’ll finish the year with a clear roadmap for making your firm more efficient and competitive.
5. Intuit Connect 2026
Dates: October 26-28, 2026
Location: ARIA Resort & Casino, Las Vegas, NV
CPE Credits: Yes
Website: intuit.com/intuitconnect
If your firm uses QuickBooks—and statistically, you probably do—Intuit Connect is where you’ll see what’s coming next. This conference goes beyond product updates to explore how QuickBooks-centered firms are building advisory practices and automating workflows.
Intuit typically announces major platform updates at this conference. Being among the first to understand new features gives you a competitive advantage with clients and prospects who attend other firms’ presentations months later.
What you’ll learn:
- Intuit Enterprise Suite capabilities for growing firms
- AI-powered features and automation opportunities within QuickBooks
- Integration strategies with apps in the QuickBooks ecosystem
- Advisory services built on QuickBooks data
- Client communication strategies around platform transitions
Why firm owners attend: The conference attracts professionals who have chosen QuickBooks as their core platform and want to maximize its capabilities. Networking connects you with peers running similar tech stacks, making conversations immediately practical.
The exhibit hall showcases apps that integrate with QuickBooks, helping you discover workflow solutions you might not find elsewhere. Many app vendors offer conference-exclusive pricing and extended trials.
6. Xerocon Denver 2026
Dates: August 19-20, 2026
Location: Colorado Convention Center, Denver, CO
Early Bird Tickets: Available January 28, 2026 (40% off for 24 hours)
Website: xero.com/us/events/xerocon/denver
Xero’s US presence continues growing, and Xerocon Denver serves firms that have chosen Xero as their platform or are considering the switch. While smaller than Intuit Connect, Xerocon offers a more focused experience for the Xero ecosystem.
Conference focus:
- Xero platform updates and new features for 2026
- Practice management tools within the Xero environment
- AI trends in accounting and how Xero is implementing them
- App marketplace exploration and integration strategies
- Cloud-first accounting workflows and best practices
Why Xero-focused firms attend: The conference brings together the Xero partner community, creating networking opportunities with firms running similar technology stacks. You’ll discover how successful firms use Xero for advisory services, not just bookkeeping.
The two-day format keeps the conference focused and manageable. The August timing works well for planning fall implementation projects and training new staff on platform capabilities.
Watch for the early bird ticket release on January 28—the 40% discount applies for just 24 hours and represents significant savings if you’re bringing multiple team members.
7. Boomer Circle Summit 2026
Dates: August 17-20, 2026
Location: Loews Hotel, Kansas City, MO
Website: boomer.com/summit
While many conferences focus on technical skills or technology, Boomer Circle Summit addresses the leadership challenges that keep firm owners awake at night. This conference brings together managing partners, COOs, CIOs, and operational leaders from progressive firms.
Core content areas:
- Leadership development for firm partners and emerging leaders
- Talent acquisition and retention strategies in competitive markets
- Operational excellence and process optimization
- Strategic growth planning and market positioning
- Cross-functional collaboration between departments
Who attends: Decision-makers from firms committed to growth and innovation. The conference attracts managing partners building leadership teams, not solo practitioners. If you’re scaling from 15 to 50 employees and need systems that support that growth, you’ll find peers facing identical challenges.
What makes it different: Boomer Consulting has spent decades working with top accounting firms. The conference reflects that depth of experience with content that goes beyond surface-level advice. You’ll leave with frameworks for leadership development, strategic planning, and operational improvement that actually work in mid-sized firms.
The Kansas City location and August timing create a focused environment away from year-end pressures. Firms often send leadership teams together to ensure everyone hears the same message and can implement changes collaboratively.
8. AICPA & CIMA Not-for-Profit Industry Conference 2026
Dates: June 15-17, 2026
Location: Gaylord National Resort, National Harbor, MD
CPE Credits: Available
Format: In-person + Live Online
Website: aicpa-cima.com/nfp-conference
If your firm serves nonprofit organizations, this specialized conference addresses the unique accounting, auditing, and financial management challenges specific to the nonprofit sector. The content goes well beyond technical updates to address governance, compliance, and advisory services for tax-exempt organizations.
Conference focus:
- Regulatory updates affecting nonprofit accounting and reporting
- Single audit requirements and Yellow Book compliance
- Nonprofit governance and board relations
- Revenue recognition for grants and contributions
- Technology solutions designed for nonprofit accounting
Why nonprofit-focused firms attend: Generic accounting conferences rarely dive deep into nonprofit-specific challenges. This conference brings together the nonprofit accounting community—both preparers and advisors—creating networking opportunities with peers who understand your specialized practice.
The hybrid format accommodates both in-person and virtual attendance. If your firm has a significant nonprofit practice but you’re the only person focused on this sector, the virtual option lets you attend without leaving the office for three full days.
The June timing works well for planning fall audits and advisory engagements. Many firms use this conference to satisfy industry-specific CPE requirements while building relationships with nonprofit professionals who refer accounting work.
Making the Most of Your Conference Investment
Attending conferences represents a significant investment of time and money for a 10-50 person firm. Here’s how to maximize your ROI:
Before the conference:
- Review the agenda and identify sessions addressing your firm’s specific challenges
- Schedule meetings with vendors you’ve been considering
- Connect with speakers on LinkedIn and come prepared with questions
- Set clear learning objectives—what specific problems do you want to solve?
During the conference:
- Take photos of slides and key takeaways rather than frantically writing notes
- Exchange contact information with peers facing similar challenges
- Ask speakers for their slide decks or additional resources
- Schedule follow-up calls with new connections while the conference is fresh
After the conference:
- Share key learnings with your team within 48 hours
- Implement one new idea within two weeks
- Schedule quarterly check-ins with new contacts
- Block calendar time for actually using what you learned
The most successful firms don’t just attend conferences—they treat them as professional development investments that require follow-through. The technology demonstration that impressed you matters only if you actually implement it. The pricing strategy that made sense during the session only helps if you apply it to your own firm.
Planning Your 2026 Conference Strategy
You can’t attend everything. Here’s how to build a conference plan that fits your firm’s priorities:
If you’re focused on technology and automation: Start with Scaling New Heights (June), add Digital CPA Conference (December) for deeper technology implementation guidance, and include your platform-specific conference (Intuit Connect or Xerocon).
If you’re scaling from 10 to 50 employees: Prioritize GrowCon (May) for business systems, Boomer Circle Summit (August) for leadership development, and Scaling New Heights (June) for technology that supports growth.
If you’re expanding advisory services: Attend AICPA ENGAGE (June) for the comprehensive advisory track, Digital CPA Conference (December) for CAS-specific content, and Scaling New Heights (June) for practical implementation strategies.
If you serve specialized clients: Add the AICPA NFP Conference (June) if you work with nonprofits, or explore AICPA’s other industry-specific conferences in construction, agriculture, or employee benefit plans.
For comprehensive professional development: AICPA ENGAGE (June) offers the broadest content across all practice areas, making it valuable even if it’s the only conference you attend.
Your Next Steps
The accounting profession changes faster than ever. AI automates tasks that consumed dozens of billable hours last year. Clients expect advisory services, not just tax returns. The talent market forces you to compete against remote-first firms nationwide.
Conferences don’t just teach you about these changes—they show you how successful firms are navigating them. The firm owner you meet at a breakout session might share the pricing model that finally makes your monthly advisory services profitable. The technology you discover in the exhibit hall might eliminate the workflow bottleneck that’s been frustrating your team for months.
Your competitors are attending these conferences. They’re learning new strategies, discovering better technology, and building relationships with potential clients and referral sources.
Ready to streamline your practice management before conference season starts?
See how Uku helps accounting firms manage workflows, track time, and deliver exceptional client service. Book a demo and discover why growing firms choose Uku for practice management.
Want to explore conferences beyond the USA? Read our guide to top accounting conferences in Europe for opportunities to network internationally and discover how firms across the Atlantic are solving similar challenges.
