Attendee Checklist | Annual Convention

Before the conference

Make your travel plans

Plan to arrive in time for conference kickoff – make sure you arrive in time to take advantage of our Innovation Forum, designed to help you use AI for transformative bank growth. Check out our Travel and Housing page for more details on getting to Charlotte.

Bring or create business cards

Be prepared for every networking opportunity that comes your way, especially at our receptions! Bring your business cards or create a digital version using an app such as HiHello, Popl, Linq or Blinq.

Pack comfortable shoes and layers

Plan to be on your feet – the Charlotte Convention Center is spacious! Pack comfortable shoes for moving between sessions and for attending receptions and bring a sweater for any chilly conference rooms.

During the conference

First things first: Pick up your badge

Pick up your badge and conference materials upon your arrival. Visit registration on Sunday between 7:00 AM and 7:00 PM, on Monday from 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM or on Tuesday from 7:00 AM – 1:30 PM. Your badge admits you to all sessions, meals and social events.

Pro tip: Take off your badge when venturing outside the conference center.

Get oriented

If you haven’t already, build your schedule on the ABA Annual Convention app to help you navigate the event. Make sure to visit our registration desk or ask any ABA staff any questions to ensure you get the most out of your experience.

Bringing a guest? Make sure they stop by registration to pick up our exclusive guest program overview, and to get familiar with all Annual Convention has to offer them.

Post on social media!

Let the world know you’re here by posting to your favorite social media platforms.

Keep your devices charged

Feel free to take notes during sessions! You can use your phone, laptop or iPad to access free Wi-Fi. Use your devices mindfully, respectfully and silently.

Pro tip: Remember that Annual Convention offers development opportunities just for Emerging Leaders.

Ask questions

Speakers usually reserve time at the end of their sessions for audience questions. Write down any questions in advance so you don’t forget them. When you ask a question, state your name and your institution so people can remember you.

Build your network!

Networking is a huge part of this conference. Before a session begins, introduce yourself to peers sitting around you. Make a game of it and challenge yourself to meet three new people each day. Be sure to attend the conference networking events, too!

Visit The Hub

The Hub is your destination to mix and mingle with peers, find new solutions for your bank and have some Charlotte fun! Check out all The Hub has to offer here.

New! The Prize Is Right Game: Every time The Hub is open, spin our prize wheel for a chance to win big, such as a Ninja Creami, Bose wireless headphones, Yeti cooler, and a meet and greet with Medal of Honor recipient Kyle Carpenter.

After the conference

Stay connected

Be sure to follow up with all your new contacts – send a follow-up email or connect on social media. Also, consider joining our Member Exchanges to continue conversations with peers about topics that matter to you most.

Complete the survey

Let ABA know about your experience at Annual Convention. ABA carefully reviews all survey responses as part of planning for next year’s conference.

Get updates on the 2026 ABA Annual Convention

ABA Annual Convention is always evolving to help your bank thrive. Fill out our Keep Me Informed  form so you’ll get updates on the program for 2026.

Using the mobile app

• Fill out your profile: Introduce yourself and update or fill out your profile with your headshot, title and more.
• Build your schedule: Add sessions to your app calendar so you can keep track of the conference content most important to you. Each session will have an “Add Session” button available so you can easily plan your days.
• View our sponsors and exhibitors: Find solutions tailored to your bank’s needs and budget.
• Download materials: Downloadable materials from presentations, if available, will be linked at the bottom of each corresponding session.
• Fill out session surveys: Be sure to leave your thoughts on the sessions you attend – we carefully review all feedback. Please note: Leaving feedback is a feature only available on the mobile app, and a survey link will only populate at the bottom of the session you have added to your mobile app schedule.

Questions? Reach out to us at events@aba.com. We look forward to seeing you in Charlotte!