Frequently Asked Questions

NACD Directors Summit is the leading annual conference for board directors and governance leaders. Over four days, you will engage in real-world discussions on board leadership, corporate strategy, risk oversight, AI, technology, and more alongside experienced directors, high-profile speakers, and subject-matter experts. The focus is practical: what boards need to know now and how to apply it in the boardroom.

NACD Directors Summit 2026 will take place October 11–14, 2026, at the Gaylord National Harbor Resort & Convention Center in Oxon Hill, Maryland, just outside Washington, DC.

This conference is designed for current board directors, committee members, and senior executives preparing for board service. Whether you are new to a board or a seasoned director, NACD Directors Summit 2026 helps you stay current, strengthen oversight, and make more informed decisions.

Directors attend to stay ahead of what is changing in the boardroom. NACD Directors Summit 2026 provides direct access to peer perspectives, current governance challenges, and practical approaches you can take back to your next board meeting. It is one of the few places where directors can openly exchange how they are handling complex decisions.

You will leave with a clearer understanding of emerging risks, stronger approaches to oversight, and practical ideas you can apply immediately. Many attendees also cite the peer conversations as one of the most valuable parts of the experience.

NACD Directors Summit is built for real boardroom application, not theory. You will hear directly from experienced directors and engage with peers facing the same decisions around risk, strategy, AI, and oversight. The focus is on how boards are actually responding today—what’s working, what’s changing, and what you can take back to your next board meeting.

For many attendees, the ability to compare approaches with other directors and leave with practical, usable perspective is what sets the Summit apart.

You can register online anytime through the official NACD Directors Summit registration page. Registering early ensures access to lower pricing tiers and the best availability for hotel accommodations.

• Early Bird (through January 15, 2026): $3,995 Closed
• Standard Rate (January 16–April 30, 2026): $4,495 Closed
• Late Registration (May 1–August 31, 2026): $4,995
• Final Rate (after September 1, 2026): $5,995

Rates increase over time, so early registration provides the best value.

Yes. Registrations for NACD Directors Summit 2026 can be transferred to another attendee if you’re unable to attend. Cancellations received by July 31, 2026, are eligible for a refund minus a processing fee. Please see our full registration policies for details.

When registering five or more NACD members in a single transaction, a 20% discount will be provided. This offer is not retroactive for previous payments. Please see the early bird and registration schedule for details on current pricing and deadlines. 

Registration includes access to all sessions, workshops, and networking events, along with breakfasts, lunches, and select receptions. You will also receive access to session materials and NACD/CPE credit tracking for eligible sessions.

NACD Directors Summit 2026 takes place at the Gaylord National Harbor Resort & Convention Center in Oxon Hill, Maryland, just outside Washington, DC. The Gaylord National Harbor offers on-site accommodations, integrated conference facilities, and walkable access to dining, waterfront views, and nearby attractions.

NACD offers a discounted room block at the Gaylord National Harbor & Convention Center for registered attendees. After completing your registration, you will be able to access the reservation page online to book your room at NACD's discounted hotel rate. Availability is limited and rooms often sell out.

View hotel details and book your stay.

The NACD Directors Summit 2026 venue is accessible by car, rideshare, and taxi. It is also located near major Washington, DC airports, including Reagan National Airport (DCA) and Dulles International Airport (IAD).

Yes. Attendees booking within the NACD Directors Summit 2026 room block receive a special rate. Only registered attendees are eligible for the NACD discounted hotel rate at the Gaylord National Harbor and Convention Center. After completing your registration, you will be able to access the reservation page online to book your room at NACD's discounted hotel rate. Rooms are limited, so early booking is recommended.

The Summit features keynote sessions, panel discussions, and interactive workshops covering governance, AI and technology oversight, cybersecurity, risk, compensation, and strategy. The agenda evolves annually to reflect current board priorities. Detailed session and speaker information will be available on the NACD Directors Summit 2026 agenda page.

Attendees can earn up to 17 NACD credits and up to 17 NASBA CPE credits, depending on session participation. Credit tracking and certificates will be available through the NACD Directors Summit 2026 platform.

Yes. Registered attendees receive access to presentation materials and select session recordings after the event, allowing you to revisit key insights and share learnings with your board.

The recommended attire for NACD Directors Summit 2026 is business professional. We suggest wearing comfortable shoes, as you will be moving between sessions and networking events, and bringing layers for varying room temperatures.

• View and customize your agenda 
• Access speaker and session details 
• Connect with other attendees 
• Receive real-time updates during Summit 

NACD is committed to providing an inclusive experience for all attendees. If you have accessibility needs, dietary restrictions, or require special assistance, please email logistics@nacdonline.org in advance of the event so arrangements can be made.

NACD may photograph and record portions of NACD Directors Summit for promotional and educational use. By attending, you consent to being included in event photography or video.

If you prefer not to be recorded, please notify Summit staff onsite and they will assist.

An information desk will be available onsite throughout NACD Directors Summit 2026. Summit staff can assist with directions, registration questions, session locations, and general support to help you navigate the event.