The ESOP Association hosted its 2026 National Conference May 5–8 in Washington, DC, bringing together employee owners, company leaders, advisors, and policymakers for a week defined by energy, alignment, and forward momentum.

At The ESOP Association’s 2026 National Conference, President and CEO Jim Bonham delivered a sweeping vision for the future of employee ownership.

Standing Ovation for EBSA Leader Ending DOL’s “War on ESOPs”

Friday’s keynote address at National Conference 2026 featured Daniel Aronowitz, the Assistant Secretary of Labor and head of the Employee Benefits Security Administration (EBSA).

When Daniel Aronowitz appeared before the U.S. Senate during his confirmation hearing to lead the Department of Labor’s Employee Benefits Security Administration (EBSA), ESOP professionals across the country took notice.

If you couldn’t join us in Washington, DC for The ESOP Association’s National Conference in May, you missed one of the most engaging, educational, and fun events of the year! 

On Thursday, May 15, Jim VandeHei, co-founder of POLITICO and Axios gave a captivating keynote address followed by an insightful conversation with The ESOP As