The Conclave Plans Final Conference for 2026

RADIO ONLINE | Sunday, November 23, 2025 | 8:03pm CT

The Conclave

The Conclave, the nation's oldest programming and talent conference, will take its final bow in 2026. Organizers announced that the 45th and last edition of the long-running gathering will take place September 15-17, 2026, in Minneapolis.

Conclave Executive Director Emeritus Tom Kay reflected on the event's legacy, noting its role in supporting generations of radio professionals and students. "The Conclave has always been a bright beacon nurturing the unique community of professional and student radio communicators while helping them navigate these past 50 challenging but rewarding years," Kay said. "But times have changed. Our industry's educational platforms have changed. And the curtain must now come down on this noble learning institution."

Still, leaders promise a memorable sendoff. "But not before one more incredible reunion in 2026," said Conclave Chair Bob Goff, GM of Heart of Wisconsin Media's WCWI-FM in Adams, WI. Goff said the agenda is still being finalized but attendees can expect the same ego-free environment, cutting-edge sessions, open Q&A topics, expert faculty, networking, and entertainment that have defined the Conclave's reputation.

Admission for the final event will retain the conference's signature early-years price of $99 for a limited time. Enrollment details and limited sponsorship opportunities will be announced soon.

Organizers encourage industry members to "plan and budget now" for what they describe as the most uniquely rewarding three days in radio.