14 Best Learning & Development Conferences for 2026
Attending learning and development conferences is a fantastic way for HR professionals, L&D specialists, and industry leaders to stay on top of industry trends, network with peers, and learn from experts.
In 2026, there are several conferences worth attending. Here's my summary of each conference and an explanation of why it's great, with key details so you can plan to attend.
Whether you're looking to expand your knowledge, explore new technologies in learning and development, develop partnerships with exhibitors, or understand the latest market dynamics, these conferences are a great place to start.
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Psst! These upcoming HR conferences look really interesting.
Best Learning and Development Conferences of 2026 Shortlist
Here's my shortlist of the best learning and development conferences I think are worth attending in 2026:
- People Development Executive Summit - New Orleans, LA (February 2-4, 2026)
- World of Learning - Multiple locations and dates
- CLO Exchange - San Diego, CA (February 22-24, 2025)
- Training 2026 Conference & Expo - Orlando, FL (February 23-25, 2026)
- People Development Summit - Lisbon, Portugal (March 11-13, 2026)
- NAWDP Annual Conference - Phoenix, AZ (May 18-20, 2026)
- Future of Work Canada - Toronto, Canada (April 7-8, 2026)
- Learning Technologies Conference - London, UK (April 29-30, 2026)
- ATD International Conference & Expo - Multiple locations (May 17-20, 2026)
- The Learning Ideas Conference - New York, NY (June 10-12, 2026)
- Training & Development Summit - London, UK (June 15-16, 2026)
- L&D Symposium - Hunter Valley, Australia (June 16-17, 2026)
- Training Industry Conference & Expo - Raleigh, NC (June 16-18, 2026)
- DevLearn - Las Vegas, NV (November 4-6, 2026)
Best Learning and Development Conferences Overview
Below are my summaries of the best learning and development conferences that made it onto my shortlist. My reviews offer a look at each event’s dates, location, pricing, and unique offering.
1. People Development Executive Summit - New Orleans, LA (February 2-4, 2026)
- Dates: February 2-4, 2026
- Location: Hilton New Orleans Riverside
- Pricing: Request an invite
- Social Media: LinkedIn
The People Development Executive Summit is a premier event for senior executives in human resources, learning & development, and talent management from Fortune 1000 companies. It started as an exclusive platform for leaders to discuss innovative learning models and organizational growth strategies. This summit promises insightful discussions and valuable networking opportunities.
Why attend? At the People Development Executive Summit, you'll engage with top leaders in your field and explore cutting-edge learning models and technologies. This invitation-only event offers a unique blend of prescheduled meetings, networking receptions, and off-site activities, all designed to foster meaningful connections and knowledge sharing. It's an unparalleled opportunity to gain insights and strategies directly from industry pioneers.
2. World of Learning - Multiple locations and dates
- Dates: Multiple dates (see table below)
- Location: Multiple locations (see table below)
- Pricing: Free
- Social Media: LinkedIn
World of Learning brings together learning and development professionals through two annual events: the World of Learning Summit in London and the World of Learning Conference & Exhibition in Birmingham. It attracts decision-makers seeking new learning solutions, strategies, and technologies. The event consistently features keynotes and panels with L&D leaders from global brands.
World of Learning: Locations & Dates
| Locations | Dates |
|---|---|
| London, UK | February 3-4, 2026 |
| Birmingham, UK | October 6-7, 2026 |
Why attend? You'll experience a focused mix of seminars, workshops, and live demos, with direct access to solution providers offering tools to evolve your L&D strategy. The Summit in London focuses on practical insights and hands-on interaction, while the Conference & Exhibition in Birmingham expands the scope with exhibition halls and a more comprehensive lineup.
These events are purpose-built for professionals looking to stay sharp, make new connections, and evaluate new learning solutions in one interactive space.
3. CLO Exchange - San Diego, CA (February 22-24, 2025)
- Dates: February 22-24, 2025
- Location: Hyatt Regency Mission Bay
- Pricing: Request an invite
- Social Media: LinkedIn
CLO Exchange is a senior-level gathering designed for Chief Learning Officers and senior L&D professionals across North America. Hosted by Corporate Learning Network, it combines networking and strategy-sharing in a closed-door format.
The event features speakers, including Dr. Chrissy Roth-Francis, Director of Talent Development at LinkedIn, and Jennifer Raven, Director of Global Audiences Learning Strategy at Google, with content centered on leadership development and enterprise learning priorities.
Why attend? CLO Exchange provides curated sessions and panel discussions that tackle high-level strategy, change management, and the alignment of learning with business outcomes. It limits attendance to decision-makers, creating space for peer-to-peer sharing without vendor pitches.
The format includes personalized itineraries, executive roundtables, and interactive case studies. It’s a place to gain valuable insights and shape how your team supports growth through learning.
4. Training 2026 Conference & Expo - Orlando, FL (February 23-25, 2026)
- Dates: February 23-25, 2026
- Location: Disney's Coronado Springs Resort
- Pricing: $2,095
- Social Media: LinkedIn, Facebook
Training 2026 Conference & Expo by Training Magazine is a major event for instructional designers, corporate trainers, and learning leaders focused on employee training and workforce development.
Keynote speakers include figures such as Vanessa Milara Alzate, CEO of Kirkpatrick Partners; Jeff Batt, Founder of Learning Dojo; and Phylise Banner, Director of Elearning at Champlain College, bringing diverse perspectives to the L&D field.
Why attend? At Training 2026, you'll join a mix of sessions including workshops, certificate programs, and breakout sessions tailored for L&D teams. The conference emphasizes practical learning and networking, with an expo hall featuring tools and solutions for training professionals.
Expect sessions from industry experts who challenge how you think about employee growth and engagement.
5. People Development Summit - Lisbon, Portugal (March 11-13, 2026)
- Dates: March 11-13, 2026
- Location: Dolce CampoReal
- Pricing: Free (for qualified senior L&D professionals)
- Social Media: LinkedIn
The People Development Summit is an exclusive gathering for senior L&D decision-makers seeking innovative solutions for their organizational goals. This summit offers networking opportunities and sessions with industry leaders, providing a platform for impactful dialogue and learning.
Why attend? At the summit, you'll connect with peers and industry experts in a focused setting. The event offers tailored sessions that allow you to explore specific interests and challenges. Its emphasis on strategic L&D solutions makes it an invaluable opportunity for professional growth.
6. NAWDP Annual Conference - Phoenix, AZ (May 18-20, 2026)
- Dates: May 18-20, 2026
- Location: Sheraton Phoenix Downtown
- Pricing: $725 (members)- $850 (non-members)
- Social Media: LinkedIn, Facebook
NAWDP Annual Conference is the flagship event of the National Association of Workforce Development Professionals, bringing together leaders focused on employment, education, and training systems. The event draws attendees from public agencies, nonprofits, and education providers.
Why attend? You’ll spend three days with learning professionals exchanging practical ideas you can apply back home. Sessions focus on workplace learning design, policy, funding, and program delivery across regions and sectors.
The agenda blends strategy with real-world case studies, giving your team space to explore cutting-edge approaches to building talent pipelines and improving outcomes.
7. Future of Work Canada - Toronto, Canada (April 7-8, 2026)
- Dates: April 7-8, 2026
- Location: Metro Toronto Convention Centre
- Pricing: $950- $2,800
- Social Media: LinkedIn
The Future of Work Canada conference is a leading event for professionals focused on HR, employee experience, talent, and learning. With a strong emphasis on Change & Transformation, People & Experience, and Learning & Leadership, it attracts industry leaders and offers deep insights into the future workplace. This event has been a staple for those looking to stay ahead in the rapidly changing world of work.
"This was a great group of HR leaders coming together to discuss relevant and important topics. Work cannot stay the same so having these future forward conversations is of upmost importance. Thanks for a great event."
- Chief People Officer, Gowling WLG.
Why attend? Attending the conference means engaging with top experts and peers to explore groundbreaking strategies in HR and talent management. The event's three tracks provide diverse insights, tailored to your specific interests and challenges. It's an ideal platform to innovate and lead in the evolving landscape of work.
8. Learning Technologies Conference - London, UK (April 29-30, 2026)
- Dates: April 29-30, 2026
- Location: Excel London
- Pricing: TBA
- Social Media: LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram
Learning Technologies Conference is one of Europe’s leading gatherings for learning and development professionals. Organized by CloserStill Media, the conference features 30+ engaging sessions, keynote speakers, and expert panels. It focuses on digital learning, talent development, and workplace performance.
"Inspiring, motivating and engaging. This conference offers great value for money and is the must attend event in my calendar. Great for networking, understanding the L&D industry and coming away with fresh perspectives."
- L&D Manager, Somerset Bridge Group Limited
Why attend? Attending the Learning Technologies Conference lets you explore practical strategies and new tools shaping digital learning experiences, from content design to artificial intelligence in training.
Sessions cover trends, case studies, and implementation techniques across industries. It’s ideal for teams ready to elevate their learning strategy and connect with peers shaping the future of L&D.
9. ATD International Conference & Expo - Multiple locations (May 17-20, 2026)
- Dates: May 17-20, 2026
- Location: Multiple locations (see table below)
- Pricing: Varied (see table below)
- Social Media: LinkedIn, Facebook
| Location | Pricing |
| Los Angeles, CA | $2495 (members), $2895 (non-members) |
| Virtual | $795 (members), $995 (non-members) |
ATD International Conference & Expo is a flagship event for talent development professionals worldwide. It provides a platform for learning and networking, featuring over 450+ sessions and numerous exhibitors. The event draws a diverse global audience, offering insights into the latest trends and innovations in talent development.
Why attend? Join ATD26 to explore tracks tailored for new and experienced professionals across L&D, coaching, instructional design, and leadership. It features hundreds of sessions, networking events, and an expo with learning technologies and services.
The conference is designed to help your team address real challenges, strengthen strategy, and grow your impact at scale. It's the ideal venue for those committed to advancing in the field of talent development.
10. The Learning Ideas Conference - Multiple locations (June 10-12, 2026)
- Dates: June 10-12, 2026
- Location: Multiple locations (see table below)
- Pricing: Varied (see table below)
- Social Media: LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram
| Location | Pricing |
| New York, NY | $1095 |
| Virtual | $695 |
The Learning Ideas Conference is a dynamic gathering for researchers, educators, instructional technologists, and user experience designers exploring innovations in learning. Established to foster dialogue on the integration of technology in education, it brings together a diverse group of professionals. The event features sessions with thought leaders and pioneers in the field.
Why attend? At TLIC, you'll engage with cutting-edge educational technologies and methodologies. It offers a platform to share ideas and collaborate with global experts. Perfect for those passionate about transforming learning through technology, this conference provides a unique blend of academic and practical insights.
11. Training & Development Summit - London, UK (June 15-16, 2026)
- Dates: June 15-16, 2026
- Location: Radisson Hotel & Conference Centre London Heathrow
- Pricing: Free (for qualified professionals)
- Social Media: LinkedIn, Facebook
The Training & Development Summit is a focused event for senior learning and development professionals and suppliers of innovative solutions. It offers a platform for one-on-one meetings, seminars, and networking.
The event provides insights into industry trends and best practices, making it crucial for professional growth.
Why attend? Attending the summit connects you with peers and industry suppliers in a personalized setting. The event's format, featuring one-on-one meetings and panels, ensures you gain targeted insights and solutions. It's perfect for those seeking to enhance their organization's learning and development strategies.
12. L&D Symposium - Hunter Valley, Australia (June 16-17, 2026)
- Dates: June 16-17, 2026
- Location: Rydges Resort Hunter Valley
- Pricing: Free (for invited professionals)
- Social Media: LinkedIn
The L&D Symposium is an exclusive event for senior Learning and Development professionals, offering a platform for peer-to-peer learning and networking. This event features influential speakers like Donald H. Taylor and Kathleen Mattie. It focuses on critical themes such as AI in L&D, skills-based organizations, and future-proofing careers.
Why attend? At the L&D Symposium, you'll engage in insightful discussions and interactive sessions tailored to your professional needs. The event's unique format encourages open dialogue and collaboration, providing a safe space to explore new ideas and strategies. It's an ideal opportunity to connect with peers and stay ahead in the L&D field.
13. Training Industry Conference & Expo - Raleigh, NC (June 16-18, 2026)
- Dates: June 16-18, 2026
- Location: Raleigh Marriott Crabtree Valley
- Pricing: Register to see current pricing
- Social Media: LinkedIn, Facebook
Training Industry Conference & Expo (TICE) is a key event for training professionals, offering insights into the latest trends and best practices. It brings together experts and practitioners to share knowledge and strategies.
Why attend? TICE offers a unique blend of learning sessions and networking opportunities, tailored to help you enhance your organization's training programs. You'll connect with industry leaders and gain practical insights to drive your team's success. It's the perfect place to explore innovative solutions and make meaningful connections.
14. DevLearn - Las Vegas, NV (November 4-6, 2026)
- Dates: November 4-6, 2026
- Location: MGM Grand
- Pricing: $1745- $4000
- Social Media: LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook
DevLearn is a leading conference for eLearning professionals, showcasing cutting-edge technologies and innovative practices. Organized by The Learning Guild, it attracts educators, developers, and designers eager to explore the future of learning.
"I have been attending DevLearn for 8 or 9 years now, and each year, I come home reinvigorated and excited to get back to work with all that I learned. Each time I get to expand my network or talk to other attendees, I realize that I am not alone in the work I do, and that keeps me coming back for more."
- Buddy Butler, LMS Platform Manager & Senior eLearning Developer at Ohio Capital Corporation for Housing
Why attend? DevLearn provides a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the latest eLearning trends and tools. You'll connect with industry pioneers and gain insights to transform your training programs.
Whether you're focused on mobile learning, gamification, or AI, DevLearn has something to offer your team.
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