As an accounting professional, when was the last time you went online to look up a particular tax code provision or learn about general regulatory updates and accounting industry trends? Chances are, you may have already done some of those several times today.
Accessing information nowadays is as easy as a few swipes and taps. So, you’d be right to wonder if attending accounting conferences in 2024 still holds value in a highly digital world.
However, the resounding answer is still an absolute yes!
Why Accounting Conferences Still Matter in 2024
Despite the accessibility of information online, attending conferences remains vital for career growth and learning, especially in technical fields like accounting.
Here are two of the most valuable benefits of attending accounting conferences and seminars that online resources can’t offer:
1. Hands-on Experience
Attending an accounting conference exposes you to the latest, cutting-edge research and trends, and it allows you to immediately apply what you learn from industry experts.
Whether it’s emerging technologies or newly established best practices, in-person conferences offer valuable hands-on experiences you can’t get online.
2. Networking Opportunities
Aside from insightful conversations and breakout sessions, accounting conferences are excellent platforms to engage and connect with your peers and industry leaders. Some would even attend conferences just for the community building alone.
As they say, “It’s not what you know; it’s who you know that matters.” That saying rings true in the accounting industry, where connections often translate to business.
However, not all accounting conferences and seminars are created equal. Their value primarily depends on whether their objectives align with your goals.
That’s why we’ve rounded up the top accounting conferences in 2024 that you should consider going to.
Top 7 Can’t-Miss Accounting Conferences 2024
1. Evolve 2024
May 6-8, 2024, The Cosmopolitan Las Vegas
If you’re a BDO Alliance USA member, Evolve 2024 is the place to be this spring. With a focus on Navigating the Impacts of Accelerating Change, Evolve 2024 promises a dynamic program packed with thought-provoking discussions, interactive sessions, and expert panels, all geared towards equipping you with cutting-edge technical insights, forward-thinking practice management strategies, and invaluable networking opportunities.
2. Engage 24
June 3-6, 2024, ARIA Resort & Casino, Las Vegas, NV
Engage 24 is organized by the world’s largest professional accounting association, the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA). Every year, it consistently draws hundreds of finance and accounting professionals of all levels and experiences from all corners of the country.
This year will be no different. Engage 24 is set to deliver next-level learning, networking, and career development opportunities, including valuable CPE credits. From the latest technologies, products, best practices, practical training, and industry developments, Engage 24 gears your practice up for the future of the accounting profession.
3. IRS Nationwide Tax Forum
Location | Dates |
Chicago Hyatt, Chicago, IL | July 9-11, 2024 |
Orlando Hilton, Orlando, FL | July 30-August 1, 2024 |
Baltimore Convention Center, Baltimore, MD | August 13-15, 2024 |
Gaylord Texan, Dallas/Grapevine, TX | August 20-22, 2024 |
Town and Country Resort, Sand Diego, CA | September 10-12, 2024 |
Organized and hosted by the United States Internal Revenue Service (IRS), the Nationwide Tax Forum gives accounting and tax professionals an in-depth look at the latest updates on federal and state tax issues.
In addition to the seminars and workshops led by IRS’s resident experts and its partner organizations, the Nationwide Tax Forum features a two-day exhibit hall, special programs, focus groups, and a case resolution program. Attendance at this event could also qualify for CE credits.
4. American Accounting Association (AAA) Annual Meeting
August 10-14, 2024, Marriott Marquis, Washington, DC
What better way to sharpen your saw than to join the annual gathering of the largest accounting community in academia, the American Accounting Association Annual Meeting 2024?
This year’s focus revolves around Revolutionizing Accounting Education. The 4-day event will feature a Conference on Teaching and Learning in Accounting, annual meeting pre-conference events, a career center, and the AAA annual meeting itself.
5. 2024 Women Who Count Conference
October 23-26, 2024, The Westin Hilton Head Island Resort & Spa, Hilton Head, SC
The Women Who Count Conference is an annual event organized by the Accounting & Financial Women’s Alliance (AFWA). Not only does the conference highlight women’s contributions to the accounting sector, but it also brings together 200-plus financial and accounting professionals from across the country.
Building on the resounding success of the 2023 event, the 2024 Women Who Count Conference promises to deliver an even more remarkable experience. With back-to-back leadership training, career and business-building workshops, career resources and support, and CPE credit-earning opportunities, this event has something to offer to everyone, regardless of sex and gender.
6. Synergy 2024
November 6-9, 2024, Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center, Orlando, FL
For accounting firms looking to modernize their practices, Thomson Reuters’ annual event, Synergy, is the place to be. With 18 breakout sessions and opportunities to earn up to 23 CPE credits, Synergy offers exclusive insights to increase your efficiency and elevate your client experience.
In addition to the insightful sessions, Synergy will also feature a live performance from GRAMMY Award-nominated singer-songwriter Gavin DeGraw and a keynote address from real estate mogul, business expert, and Shark Tank investor Barbara Corcoran.
7. Digital CPA 2024
December 8-11, 2024, Hyatt Regency, Denver, CO
While this event is further into the year, you should add Digital CPA 2024 (DCPA24) to your accounting conferences 2024 list.
Recognizing the impact of technology’s rapid evolution on the business landscape, DCPA prepares your firm for the future of the accounting profession. If you’re looking to future-proof your practice, DCPA24 is a must-see event.
The Ultimate Accounting Conference Experience
In a dynamic industry like accounting, where change doesn’t wait for anyone, having the ability to adapt is no longer just an advantage – it’s a necessity for every firm to survive.
These top 7 accounting conferences in 2024 don’t just allow you to keep up but ultimately stay ahead. So don’t miss these golden opportunities to learn and expand your network.
However, life can sometimes get in the way of our professional pursuits. Whether it’s time and budget constraints or urgent personal matters, there are times when attending conferences is simply not viable.
That’s why we at TOA Global regularly hold live webinars to empower accounting and bookkeeping professionals to take on industry challenges and maximize growth opportunities.
Check out our webinar page to stay updated with our upcoming live sessions.