ConferenceDirect’s D26 Conference Showcases the Future of Inclusive and Sustainable Meetings

Folsom, CA (July 27, 2026 ) — ConferenceDirect successfully held D26, its annual Diversity, Equity, Inclusion (DEI) and Environmental, Social & Governance (ESG) conference, held July 21–24, 2026, at the InterContinental Los Angeles Downtown. The event brought together ConferenceDirect’s valued customers, Associates, and Partners to explore the latest trends, best practices, and innovations shaping the future of the meetings and events industry.

Centered on the theme of creating more inclusive, accessible, and sustainable events, D26 featured inspiring keynote presentations, collaborative peer learning, industry panels, educational breakouts, and destination experiences that demonstrated how organizations can integrate DEI and ESG into every aspect of event planning.

The conference opened with a Land & Water Acknowledgement honoring the Indigenous communities of the Los Angeles region, followed by “Building Belonging: Business Resource Group Stories ” which highlighted the impact of ConferenceDirect’s Business Resource Groups in fostering an inclusive culture.

Attendees were inspired by keynote speaker John Register, Paralympic Silver Medalist, Desert Storm Veteran, and Founder of the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Military Sport Program, whose presentation, “AMPUTATE TO ELEVATE™,” encouraged participants to embrace change, overcome adversity, and lead with resilience.

ConferenceDirect President & CEO Jerry Horan presented the company’s latest industry insights during the CD Stats & Industry Trends Report, followed by a panel discussion featuring leaders from the International LGBTQ+ Travel Association (IGLTA) Foundation, Microsoft, and IHG Hotels & Resorts, who explored how organizations can build more inclusive and impactful meetings. D26 also supported the Eaton Fire Collaborative Survivor Store, a free resource that provides essential everyday items for families still recovering from the devastating Eaton Fire, through a donation drive.

Educational programming addressed some of the industry’s most important topics, including accessibility in meetings, responsible use of artificial intelligence, and strategies for developing successful diverse supplier programs. Throughout the conference, attendees also participated in Braindates, creating meaningful peer-to-peer conversations and collaborative learning opportunities.

The conference concluded with CD Talks: The Planner Perspective, hosted by ConferenceDirect Executive Vice President Rob McCulloch, featuring planners and hospitality leaders from IHG Hotels & Resorts, Los Angeles Tourism, Destination Cleveland, CIAA, Nextech, and NextGen AMC. Together, they shared practical perspectives on creating more inclusive, engaging, and impactful meetings.

In addition to its educational programming, D26 demonstrated ConferenceDirect’s commitment to environmental and social responsibility by integrating ESG initiatives throughout the attendee experience. The conference included optional wellness programming, and thoughtful food and beverage practices designed to reduce waste and environmental impact. Menus featured healthy, lower-carbon options, bulk beverage stations replaced single-use packaging where possible, and catering quantities were carefully managed to minimize food waste. Housekeeping services were offered on a request-only basis to conserve water and energy, while event production incorporated reusable décor elements, recycling and donation of registration materials, live captioning during General Sessions, and a scent-free recommendation to create a more accessible environment for all attendees.

ConferenceDirect also partnered with organizations that share its commitment to sustainability. The conference venue, InterContinental Los Angeles Downtown, supported these efforts through IHG Hotels & Resorts’ Meetings for Good program and its location within the first LEED Gold-certified building in Downtown Los Angeles, reflecting a shared commitment to reducing environmental impact while delivering exceptional meeting experiences.

Beyond the meeting rooms, attendees experienced Los Angeles through exclusive networking events, including a private reception and tour of Dodger Stadium, a destination exploration at the GRAMMY Museum, and a music-inspired networking experience celebrating the city’s vibrant culture.

“D26 reflects ConferenceDirect’s belief that the future of meetings is built on inclusion, accessibility, sustainability, and meaningful human connection,” said Jerry Horan, President & CEO of ConferenceDirect. “By bringing together customers, Associates, partners, and industry leaders, we create opportunities to learn from one another and continue raising the standard for meetings that make a positive impact on people, communities, and our industry.”

Through meaningful dialogue, innovative education, and purposeful action, D26 reinforced ConferenceDirect’s ongoing commitment to helping organizations create meetings and events that are not only successful, but also socially responsible, environmentally conscious, and welcoming for all.