Large audience listening to conference speaker Staying ahead in leadership means continuously learning, evolving, and connecting with other forward-thinking professionals. Large business events, like conferences, can be a helpful way to bring together industry experts, innovators, and visionaries alike. Whether you're looking to sharpen your skills, expand your network, or gain fresh perspectives, these conferences have the potential to benefit you as a leader. From leadership strategies to current business trends, these conferences highlight invaluable opportunities for growth. As a leader looking ahead to the rest of 2025, I rely on leadership conferences to help grow my network. With that in mind, here are some conferences I would personally recommend checking out this year. 1. The Montgomery Summit: March 4 - 5, Santa Monica, CA The Montgomery Summit presented by March Capital draws over 1,200 entrepreneurs, investors, and leaders alike to Santa Monica, CA. This technology conference is a key event for influential thought leaders and innovators, featuring Q&As, panels, and discussions. Attendees can expect to stay engaged with interactive sessions focused on technology, innovation and capital. The event lineup offers attendees opportunities to meet new industry leaders and to build a network of long-term business relationships. In light of the recent fire in Los Angeles, this year’s event will feature some programming focused on supporting the helpful efforts being made there. Specifically, the summit will highlight good causes like the Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation and the World Central Kitchen. MORE FOR YOU Attorney General Pam Bondi Accuses FBI Of Withholding Jeffrey Epstein Files—What To Know Google’s Unannounced Update Scans All Your Photos—One Click Stops It Sudden $1 Trillion Crypto Market Shock Sees Bitcoin Plunge Under $80,000 Price 2. Web Summit Vancouver: May 27 - 30, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada Web Summit Vancouver will host thousands of international attendees such as leaders, entrepreneurs, investors, and journalists in the tech community. The focus of this conference is to gather the world’s network of innovative professionals and create a space for them to connect and learn from one another. Previously, Web Summit has hosted the Collision conference, which happened in Toronto, Ontario. However, while their Web Summit conferences have taken place in various other continents around the world, Web Summit Vancouver is the first of its kind happening in North America. Attendees will not only hear from influential speakers from around the world, but they will also attend alongside these people as well. Past events have featured speakers like Stephen Hawking, Serena Williams, Margaret Atwood, and many others. Overall, attendees in the tech industry can look forward to learning valuable insights that are applicable in their own business. 3. Fortune Brainstorm Tech 2025: September 8 - 10, Park City, UT Taking place in Park City, Utah, Fortune Brainstorm Tech 2025 will gather key leaders, investors, and technology professionals to dive into the evolving business and technology landscape. In a world where innovation is happening at unprecedented rates, this conference hones in on the nitty-gritty discussions about how industries must adapt. Gathering leaders to address current challenges, this three-day retreat will focus on collaboration, human connection, and collective insight on today’s tech. This conference’s 2025 agenda includes a variety of topics, like AI, cybersecurity, global technology policies, cryptocurrency, and fintech. Brainstorm Tech serves as a hub for attendees to not only learn how to adapt to today’s tech challenges, but also how to navigate technology’s future and societal impact. 4. Forbes Under 30 Summit: September 28 - October 1, Columbus, OH & Virtual The 2025 Forbes Under 30 Summit will bring together many participants, including people named in Forbes 30 Under 30 list. Built on the energy of its past gatherings, this event brings together ambitious young entrepreneurs from around the world who are making an inspirational impact on today’s business landscape. For four days, attendees will focus on learning and networking. The 2024 summit highlighted dynamic leaders who shared insights on resilience, leadership, and authenticity. Based on last year’s success and resonance with attendees, this year’s summit will feature a similar structure. Attendees will be engaged in discussions, hear from high-profile speakers, and learn about motivational experiences designed to help the next generation of creative business minds. While this year’s conference marks a new event in a different location, attendees can still expect the same motivation Forbes Under 30 Summits are known for: Making meaningful connections, fostering bold ideas, having inspiring conversations on overcoming challenges, elevating leadership skills, and building a lasting impact. 5. Inc. 5000 Conference & Gala: October 22 - 24, Phoenix, AZ The Inc. 5000 Conference & Gala is an immersive event, filled with unique experiences and engaging activities. Between dynamic conversations, wellness activities, and even social gatherings, attendees are sure to find several great opportunities to take advantage of. They will be able to build connections, learn new things, and grow–both personally and professionally. This conference also features noteworthy keynote sessions in addition to industry-specific breakout discussions. Not to mention its Marketplace, which serves as the event’s central hub, offering a lively space for things like networking, book signings, special guest appearances, and interactive activities. After the conference sessions, guests can also unwind at live entertainment events and happy hours. Events like these are a great time for attendees to connect with fellow entrepreneurs, speakers, sponsors, and Inc. editorial staff. Guests can expect a valuable and memorable experience at this event. 6. EY Strategic Growth Forum: November 12 - 15, Palm Springs, CA Happening in the beautiful city of Palm Springs, California, the exciting event lineup for this year’s EY Strategic Growth Forum will not disappoint. Each year, the Strategic Growth Forum unites many of our nation’s influential business leaders and entrepreneurs from several different industries. Interactive workshops, exclusive networking opportunities and impactful conversations surrounding innovation will be set in motion. This event is a reliable way for executives to exchange ideas, solve business challenges, and gain insights into upcoming trends shaping the future of our society. Attendees will get a glimpse into what’s ahead for their industry, as well as hear first hand stories from entrepreneurs who have overcome similar challenges. At the end of the event, guests will get to witness the Entrepreneur Of The Year® US National Awards celebration. Prepare Your Calendars Attending the right leadership conferences, even the smaller events, can heavily influence your personal and professional growth. These events provide a unique opportunity to learn from industry experts, connect with like-minded professionals, and stay ahead of emerging business trends. By making time for these conferences in 2025, you’re investing in your development as a leader and expanding your influence in the industry. Whether you’re looking to refine your leadership strategies or build valuable relationships, these gatherings offer immense value. So, as you plan your year, consider which conferences align with your goals—and make the most of the opportunities they provide. Follow me on Twitter or LinkedIn. Check out my website. Editorial StandardsForbes Accolades