While livestream educational events have been all the rage for the past few years, in-person educational events offer unique advantages that significantly enhance the overall experience for attendees. That’s why ICBA has built out its in-person offerings for your benefit. 

If you’re looking to broaden your knowledge of compliance or expand your network of fellow community bankers, in-person opportunities such as the ICBA Compliance Institute or ICBA LIVE are your best bet. 

“Participants can better absorb the material covered when they are out of the office—removed from interruptions and distractions—and can focus on the material being covered,” says Shirley Ringhand, SVP for ICBA Education. She says stepping away from the everyday work setting gives event attendees greater focus, understanding and information retention.

While modern technology enables connections through livestream educational events—which ICBA also offers—nothing beats the feeling of in-person conversation. “While it is certainly possible to forge personal connections in a livestream setting, face-to-face training facilitates networking in a more personal and immediate way,” says Ringhand. 

Meeting other professionals in person not only builds camaraderie but also opens doors for collaboration that lasts well beyond the event. “The atmosphere and energy at an in-person seminar, institute or conference creates a sense of community and enthusiasm that is challenging to replicate through a livestream event,” she adds.

ICBA’s flagship event

Take ICBA LIVE, for example. It’s America’s largest gathering of community bankers—a sizable group you can’t fit on a single computer screen. Attendees can talk with each other during informational sessions and roundtables to connect about industry issues. Community bankers can attend vendor and ICBA presentations, as well as keynote speaker events, for additional perspective from subject matter experts.    

The combined benefits of improved focus, enhanced networking opportunities, a vibrant community atmosphere and interactive engagement make ICBA’s in-person events invaluable for anyone eager to grow their knowledge and build lasting connections within their industry.

2025 ICBA event guide

Learn more about these invaluable educational and networking opportunities:

ICBA LIVE

Where: Nashville, Tenn.

When: March 11–14, 2025

What: ICBA LIVE, ICBA’s annual gathering of community bankers nationwide, is designed to foster professional development and networking opportunities. The event features more than 60 educational sessions, workshops and roundtables on core banking topics and emerging issues.

Who should attend: Community bankers seeking to learn, grow and connect within their industry—anybody from the veteran banker to those just starting out

ICBA Capital Summit

Where: Washington, D.C.

When: May 12–15, 2025

What: The ICBA Capital Summit annual forum permits attendees to visit Capitol Hill, advocate for the community banking industry and engage directly with federal regulators and legislators.

Who should attend: Community banking professionals and anyone invested in the future and growth of the community banking industry

LEAD FWD Summit

Where: TBD

When: TBD

What: The LEAD FWD Summit is an annual event designed for community bankers who want to enhance their leadership skills and navigate the complexities of the banking industry. The event features inspirational speakers, peer-to-peer discussions and lessons on hot industry issues and other bankers’ personal experiences.

Who should attend: Professionals within the broader banking industry who are looking to advance their careers and are seeking an immersive educational experience focused on leadership strategies, compliance and technology