Did you know there are nearly 100 education conferences held each year around the world? With so many options—some local, some national, some international—deciding which conferences to attend can be overwhelming.
Whether you are a classroom teacher, an education leader, or an edtech entrepreneur, the right conference can provide practical strategies, new tools, valuable professional development, and meaningful networking opportunities.
If your focus is on the intersection of education and innovation, below is a concise, updated guide to five conferences from 2019 that brought educators, entrepreneurs, and technology leaders together. These events highlight current trends in instructional practice, educational technology, policy, and school leadership.
Each conference description summarizes what to expect, who should consider attending, and the kinds of sessions and networking opportunities that commonly appear on the programs.
SXSW EDU: March 4–7, Austin
SXSW EDU brings together educators, entrepreneurs, researchers, policymakers, and creative professionals who share an interest in innovation across the learning landscape. Over several days, attendees can take part in hands-on workshops, film screenings, startup showcases, research and policy panels, and interactive learning experiences. The event emphasizes collaboration and mentorship, making it a strong choice for education professionals looking to pilot new ideas, discover emerging tools, or connect with potential partners and funders.
Who should attend: innovators, school and district leaders, edtech founders, researchers, and educators seeking creative approaches to teaching and learning.
More information: SXSW EDU (official site)
ISTE19: June 23–26, Philadelphia
The ISTE conference is a major gathering for education technology and instructional practice. It offers a broad program of keynote addresses, hands-on workshops, exhibit halls featuring the latest products, and interactive sessions where teachers share classroom-proven strategies. ISTE is known for showcasing practical ways to integrate technology to transform learning and assessment, while also offering sessions on leadership, equity, and digital citizenship.
Who should attend: classroom educators, technology coaches, curriculum specialists, IT leaders, and education entrepreneurs who want to learn about scalable classroom tools and instructional design practices.
More information: ISTE 2019 (conference details)
ASCD Empower19: March 16–19, Chicago
ASCD Empower19 focuses on a whole-child approach to education—ensuring students are healthy, safe, engaged, supported, and challenged. The conference combines research-based practices with practical workshops to help educators design learning environments that promote social, emotional, and academic growth. Sessions are led by experienced practitioners, scholars, and high-profile speakers who address leadership, instructional strategies, and community engagement.
Who should attend: teachers, school leaders, counselors, and district staff who prioritize student-centered practices and comprehensive supports for learners. Notable presenters at this edition included well-known public figures and education advocates, offering a mix of inspiration and actionable guidance.
More information: ASCD Empower19 (event overview)
Brainstorm: March 3–5, Wisconsin Dells & May 5–7, Sandusky, Ohio
BrainStorm is designed to connect K–20 education technologists with edtech vendors and product developers. The conference typically features a large number of technology-focused sessions, product demonstrations, and peer-led workshops that help attendees evaluate and implement classroom-ready tools. It’s a practical venue for discovering solutions that address daily instructional and infrastructure needs while making time for relationship-building with vendors and other educational technology leaders.
Who should attend: district technology directors, instructional technologists, school leaders, and purchasing decision-makers responsible for classroom and district-wide technology adoption.
More information: BrainStorm (conference details)
LearnLaunch Across Boundaries: January 31–February 1, Boston
Now in its seventh year during the referenced period, LearnLaunch Across Boundaries gathers a diverse mix of teachers, administrators, entrepreneurs, investors, and product teams focused on using digital technologies to improve learning outcomes. The conference fosters critical conversations about how to scale effective solutions, measure impact, and design products that meet educators’ real needs. Panels, demo sessions, and networking events create space for candid feedback and collaboration.
Who should attend: edtech startups, investors, teacher-leaders, and district partners interested in pilot programs, partnerships, and evidence-based product development.
For more context, these selections were summarized in a Forbes column highlighting innovative conferences for educators and entrepreneurs to consider in 2019.