After the overwhelmingly positive feedback we received at the 2025s event, we are returning to Charleston, South Carolina in 2026!
We are thrilled to welcome you back to The Charleston Place, an iconic hotel in the heart of the city's historic downtown. The Professionals’ Forum will be here before you know it, so book your spot soon!
At the Forum, professionals come together for an immersive, peer-driven learning experience. And because the Forum is a meeting of professionals for professionals, you can maximize your participation in the event's programming without the pressure of servicing or attending to client needs at our larger, national events.
Breakout Session Topics Announced!
- In addition to general sessions on Thursday and Friday, breakout discussions will be offered in three time slots on Thursday afternoon and Friday morning. All nine topics will be repeated to allow professionals to attend up to three different sessions.
- Trends in Repurchase Obligation & Sustainability
- Solutions for Proposed Long-Term Internal ESOP Loan Lengths
- Contributory ESOPs: Moving Forward and any Input from Regulators
- New ESOP Formations, Industry Concentrations & Finance Alternatives/Impacts
- ESOPs and Mergers & Acquisitions
- ESOP Plan Design Innovations
- AI and Data Analytics in Valuation, Administration, and Governance
- ESOP Terminations: How to Handle it Properly
- "The Perpetual ESOP": Strategies for Limiting ESOP Termination Through Acquisition
The chairs of The ESOP Association’s professional advisory committees design the Forum. These leaders rank among the foremost experts in their fields. Join your peers to share insights, explore emerging trends, network, and develop or refine best practices.
Back Again for 2026: ESOP-Talks for Young Professionals
Are you interested in building a career as an ESOP Professional? Join us for programming specifically tailored to our younger ESOP professionals (40 and under). The program is structured as a combination of learning and collaboration designed to benefit the ongoing growth of our professional community. You'll learn from experienced ESOP professionals on topics such as addressing the life cycle of an ESOP and transaction issues. This event is designed to help you build those critical relationships while understanding the ESOP career path and opportunities. Additional fee applies.
Venue: The Charleston Place Hotel
Located in the vibrant heart of historic downtown Charleston, The Charleston Place is just steps from some of the city’s best independent shops, the City Market, antique stores, museums, historic sites, and art galleries.
To make the most of your stay, TEA has secured a special rate at The Charleston Place of $350 per night, plus applicable fees and taxes. Our room block is available until Tuesday, January 13, but please be aware that the hotel may reach capacity earlier. Book your accommodations through our secure portal.
REMINDER: This event sells out every year. Book soon and join your peers in Charleston!
