The 2026 Level Up: 10 Conferences Every PM Needs on Their Calendar
1. Black Is Tech Conference 2026
Dates: April 20-24, 2026
Location: Houston, TX
Theme: The Future is Now
The Black Is Tech Conference is making its highly anticipated return to Houston with five full days dedicated to the intersection of technology and innovation. This year's theme centers on artificial intelligence and how it's reshaping careers, business operations, and daily life.
Why Attend
The conference draws over 5,000 attendees for powerful speaking sessions, hands-on workshops, networking opportunities, and special events designed to help you stay competitive in an AI-driven world. You'll gain actionable insights from over 75 thought leaders who understand the unique challenges and opportunities facing Black professionals in tech.
What makes this conference exceptional is its commitment to accessibility; many events are free, and early bird tickets start at just $75. Whether you're looking to understand how AI impacts project delivery, want to explore emerging technologies, or need to build strategic partnerships, this conference delivers expert-led discussions you can implement immediately.
2. Women Of Project Management Conference 2026
Dates: June 17-18, 2026
Location: Charleston, SC
Registration: Includes 12-month membership and 70+ PDU hours
The Women Of Project Management Conference isn't just another event; it's the most impactful career investment for Black women and women of color in project management. This conference was intentionally created as a safe space where you can lead boldly, take up space, and claim the recognition you've earned.
Women Of Project Management® Annual Conference | June 2026 — Women Of Project Management
Why Attend
Your registration includes three transformative days of full conference access, a 12-month Women Of Project Management membership, a Conference Certificate of Completion, and the opportunity to earn over 70 hours of PDUs (24.16 from the conference plus 48+ from your annual membership).
The conference provides breakthrough leadership moments, genuine sisterhood, and unstoppable growth, with every room filled with alignment, strategy, and power. The programming is specifically designed to address the unique challenges Black women face in project management, from navigating corporate politics to advocating for fair compensation.
This isn't about generic professional development; it's about building community with women who understand your experience. Flexible payment options are available, and your employer can cover the cost or you can claim it as a tax-deductible continuing education expense.
3. AfroTech Conference 2026
Dates: November 2-6, 2026
Location: Houston, TX
Milestone: 10-Year Anniversary
AfroTech is celebrating a decade of innovation with its most ambitious conference yet. This milestone event will feature 40,000+ attendees, 300+ speakers, and 100+ vendors, making it the world's largest gathering of Black technologists, entrepreneurs, and creatives.
AfroTech 2026 - A Decade of Innovation. Infinite Impact.
Why Attend
The five-day experience includes practical, business-aligned programming focused on AI, cloud security, product innovation, and emerging technology. You'll explore the future of work through interactive workshops, witness live product demos, and connect with companies actively recruiting diverse talent.
Special programming includes the Creator Summit (produced with Dream Con), HealthStack Conference focused on health tech innovation, and specialized tracks for different experience levels. The conference has evolved from 650 attendees in 2016 to over 37,500 in 2024, proving its value as a launchpad for careers, startups, and partnerships.
This is where high-profile speakers like will.i.am, Colin Kaepernick, and industry CEOs share stages with emerging leaders. The networking opportunities alone are worth the investment; attendees consistently report landing new jobs, securing executive positions, and forming business partnerships that drive innovation.
4. BFUTR 2026 (Black Future Conference)
Dates: TBA (Check Obsidi.com for updates)
Location: San Francisco Tech Pavilion
Scale: 20,000+ attendees
BFUTR is the largest annual gathering of Black tech professionals and allies worldwide, offering two transformative days of learning, networking, and celebration of Black excellence in technology.
Why Attend
You'll gain insights from 100+ world-class speakers sharing cutting-edge ideas in tech, innovation, and leadership, while connecting with peers, industry leaders, and global employers shaping the tech landscape.
The conference features over 70 professional development and industry talks hosted by tech movers and shakers, giving you access to knowledge that positions you ahead of industry trends. The Mainstage and Marketplace serve as hubs for brand activation, allowing you to engage directly with companies and thought leaders.
This event is specifically designed for anyone serious about networking and leveling up in the tech industry. You'll leave with concrete strategies for career advancement, new professional relationships, and visibility within the global Black tech community.
Perfect for: Senior PMs seeking C-suite connections, those managing enterprise-level projects, and professionals who want exposure to cutting-edge tech trends.
5. PMI Global Summit 2026
Dates: October 21-24, 2026
Location: Detroit, MI, USA
Host: Project Management Institute
The PMI Global Summit is the signature event for project professionals worldwide, bringing together changemakers, leaders, and practitioners committed to delivering project success.
In-Person and Virtual Project Management Events | PMI
Why Attend
This high-energy summit delivers immersive learning through mega sessions, interactive panels, and workshops led by global thought leaders, with opportunities to explore the future of work, AI in project management, and portfolio leadership.
The Innovation Hub provides hands-on experiences with the latest project management tools and methodologies, while networking lounges and exclusive member meetups facilitate meaningful professional connections. With tracks for various experience levels, the summit blends career development with strategic insights.
As the flagship PMI event, you'll encounter the most comprehensive gathering in the project management field. The programming addresses real-world challenges you're facing today while preparing you for tomorrow's demands. Plus, PMI offers global summit series throughout the year in Dubai (April 29-30), Seoul (June 10-11), and Cape Town (September 14-15).
6. Women of Power Summit 2026
Dates: March 11-15, 2026
Location: Bellagio Hotel & Casino, Las Vegas, NV
Anniversary: 20th Year
The Women of Power Summit, hosted by Black Enterprise, is the premier professional development gathering for executive women of color. This unparalleled event attracts around 1,800 Black women annually, offering four days of inspiration, connection, and empowerment.
Why Attend
The summit features keynote speeches, panel discussions, workshops, and unmatched networking opportunities with influential leaders. Past speakers have included Rosalind "Roz" Brewer (Interim President of Spelman College and former CEO), Carla Harris (Senior Client Advisor at Morgan Stanley), and other trailblazing executives.
Executive development panels focus on providing you with tools to advance your career and deliver positive impact at every leadership level. The programming includes in-demand skills workshops, work-life strategy sessions, and in-depth conversations with high-level industry leaders.
The Women of Power Legacy Award Gala honors exceptional women and serves as a celebration highlight. This is where C-suite executives, board members, and senior leaders gather to shape the future of Black women in business.
7. Woman Evolve Conference 2026
Dates: July 30 – August 1, 2026
Location: Atlanta, GA
Led by: Pastor Sarah Jakes Roberts
Woman Evolve is more than a conference; it's a powerful movement led by Sarah Jakes Roberts that challenges the norms of what it means to be a modern woman of faith. This three-day experience is designed to help you yield to God, surrender to your calling, and evolve into the best version of yourself.
Woman Evolve 2026 - Individual Seats - Woman Evolve | Brushfire
Why Attend
This conference creates a transformative space where faith, purpose, and empowerment intersect. You'll gain practical tools for spiritual growth and development from a roster of luminaries including worship leaders, speakers, and thought leaders who understand the unique journey of Black women.
The programming includes powerful worship experiences, vulnerable conversations about mental health and healing, practical finance workshops (covering budgeting, savings, and retirement planning), and intimate group therapy sessions. Past conferences have featured Tasha Cobbs-Leonard, Priscilla Shirer, Dr. Anita Phillips, and financial experts like Tiffany Aliche (The Budgetnista) and Thasunda Duckett.
What makes Woman Evolve exceptional is its ability to address the whole woman; your spiritual life, emotional wellness, financial health, and personal relationships. As a project manager, you know that effective leadership requires more than just technical skills.
The conference also includes special experiences like the Mind Your Business Luncheon (ticketed event) and Girl Evolve for young women in grades 6-12, making it perfect if you want to bring your daughter, niece, or mentee.
8. RenderATL 2026
Dates: August 12-13, 2026
Location: AmericasMart Atlanta (during Atlanta Tech Week)
Theme: "Collards and Code" – The Carnival of Code
RenderATL isn't your typical buttoned-up tech conference. Founded by engineer and entrepreneur Justin E. Samuels in 2019, this is where code meets culture in the most dynamic way possible. The conference has grown from 1,000 attendees in its inaugural year to thousands of engineers, designers, entrepreneurs, and executives.
Tickets | August 12 & 13, 2026
Why Attend
RenderATL intentionally blurs the lines between community, culture, and code to create an environment where you don't just learn; you feel inspired and energized. The conference features 50+ speakers and 80+ technical talks and workshops covering AI, machine learning, web frameworks, testing, design, product management, and leadership.
Your ticket includes access to all conference programming, the interactive product exhibition hall and career expo, and the Atlanta Tech Week A.I. Summit (bringing together 2,000+ A.I. engineers for breakthrough sessions). New for 2026, RenderFEST is fully included with your ticket; an outdoor kickoff celebration that sets the tone for the entire experience.
The conference takes place across 250,000+ square feet at AmericasMart Atlanta with immersive demos, activations, and exhibitor experiences. Past speakers have come from Microsoft, Reddit, OpenAI, DraftKings, Netflix, Uber, and more. The vibe is festival-style with live performances, themed events, and networking opportunities that feel more like family reunion than corporate gathering.
What sets RenderATL apart is its commitment to making tech more inclusive, collaborative, and welcoming for everyone. The programming evolves based on community feedback, ensuring you get cutting-edge content that addresses today's emerging trends. Plus, the conference connects directly to partner hotels via underground tunnel, keeping you comfortable during that Georgia summer heat.
9. Agile2026
Dates: July 26-28, 2026
Location: Washington, DC, USA
Host: Agile Alliance
Agile2026 brings together Agile practitioners, team leads, Scrum Masters, and transformation managers for one of the most comprehensive agile conferences globally. This event emphasizes inclusive, cross-disciplinary perspectives on Agile.
Why Attend
The conference combines academic research with real-world case studies, encouraging you to rethink traditional Agile roles and practices. Sessions draw from software, education, healthcare, and finance sectors, providing diverse applications of Agile methodologies.
You'll learn from transformation managers who've successfully led organizational change, participate in workshops that address scaling Agile across enterprises, and connect with practitioners solving similar challenges in their organizations. The programming helps you navigate the evolution of Agile practices in an AI-driven world.
With the increasing adoption of Agile and hybrid project management approaches, staying current with methodology innovations is essential. This conference positions you as a thought leader who understands both traditional and emerging frameworks.
10. PMI Global Summit Series Dubai 2026
Dates: April 29-30, 2026
Location: Dubai, UAE
Host: Project Management Institute
This regional summit provides a highly tailored lens on global project leadership trends, with content delivered in multiple languages and regionally relevant case studies offering practical strategies for leading cross-border projects.
Why Attend
The event emphasizes future-ready skills, sustainability, and digital transformation, with unique features including an EU policy roundtable, emerging market panels, and hands-on innovation workshops. It's a highly collaborative environment where attendees co-create solutions and forge new partnerships with professionals across the Middle East, Europe, and beyond.
If you manage international projects, work with distributed teams, or want to expand your global network, this summit offers perspectives you won't find at US-based conferences. The focus on sustainability and cross-border collaboration reflects the evolving demands of modern project management.
Dubai's position as a global business hub makes this an ideal networking opportunity with leaders from diverse cultural and business backgrounds. You'll gain insights into managing projects across different regulatory environments, cultural contexts, and market conditions.
Make 2026 Your Year
These 10 conferences represent strategic investments in your career, your network, and your leadership development. Whether you're focused on tech innovation, executive advancement, or holistic wellness, there's a conference designed to meet you where you are and propel you forward.
Planning Your Conference Strategy
Here's how to maximize your conference ROI:
Start with your goals. Are you seeking a promotion? Building your network? Exploring entrepreneurship? Let your objectives guide which conferences you prioritize.
Build your case for employer sponsorship. Most of these conferences qualify for professional development budgets. Use the clear ROI, PDU credits, and skill-building opportunities to justify the investment.
Plan for multiple conferences. Strategic professionals attend 2-4 conferences annually. Mix general PM conferences with specialized events that address your unique interests.
Network intentionally. Research speakers and attendees in advance, prepare your elevator pitch, and follow up within 48 hours of making connections.
Share what you learn. Present insights to your team or company, amplifying your investment and positioning yourself as a thought leader.
Your Next Steps
Mark your calendar now for these game-changing events. Register early to take advantage of discounted rates, and start building relationships with other attendees through conference social media channels and LinkedIn groups.
The leaders you admire didn't get there by accident; they invested in themselves consistently. Make 2026 the year you join them by showing up for yourself at conferences that recognize your worth, celebrate your identity, and equip you with the tools to lead powerfully.
Which conference are you most excited about? Share this list with your PM sisters and start planning your 2026 conference strategy today. Your future self will thank you for the investment you're making right now.
By, Airess Rembert, PMP, Member of Women Of Project Management & Blogger at The Nerd Bae
Join.
Join the full discussion inside the Women Of Project Management Membership. Listen to part of our conversation on the Women Of Project Management Podcast.
If you're new to our community, Women Of Project Management is the only community created to support & amplify the voices of women & women of color in every specialty of the project management industry worldwide. We support women in every stage of their career, learn more at Women Of Project Management
