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2026 HBA Annual Conference

Build the Connections That Move You Forward

At the 2026 HBA Annual Conference, networking is intentionally designed to help you connect with purpose.

You are navigating complex decisions, expanding your scope, and thinking about what comes next. The right connections can accelerate all of it, yet they are often left to chance at large conferences.

Aligned with this year’s focus, Future Focused. Impact Driven., each networking experience is built to help you strengthen relationships, exchange ideas, and take meaningful steps forward in your leadership.

From large scale receptions to small group conversations and one-to-one connections, you can choose how you engage based on what you need most.

Networking Experiences

Explore the experiences below and plan how you will build the relationships that support what you are becoming, the impact you want to create, and what you are building next.

Connection Circles

Monday, 16 November | 3:45 to 4:15 pm CT
Wednesday, 18 November | 10:30 to 11:15 am CT

Small group conversations designed to help you engage more intentionally throughout the conference, reflect with peers, and translate insights into next steps.

Heart of Texas Welcome Reception

Monday, 16 November | 6:00 to 7:30 pm CT

Hosted by the HBA Southwest Region, this opening reception brings attendees together to kick off the conference in a welcoming, high-energy environment.

Included with Registration 

HBA Host City Connections

Tuesday, 17 November | 6:30 to 9:00 pm CT

Step beyond the conference space and experience Houston through small-group, volunteer-led excursions designed for relaxed conversation and deeper connection.

Choose How You Connect

Whether you are reconnecting with peers, expanding your network across the healthcare ecosystem, or seeking new perspectives, you will find opportunities that meet you where you are and help you move forward.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to register for networking events in advance?

Most networking experiences are included with your conference registration and do not require advance sign up. HBA Host City Connections and 1:1 Connections require sign up through links or the conference app once available.

How do I schedule 1:1 Connections?

You can schedule meetings through the conference app by browsing attendees and selecting times that work for both of you.

Are networking events included in my registration?

Yes, most are included. Some HBA Host City Connections experiences may have an additional cost depending on the activity.

What if I am attending alone?

All networking experiences are designed to be welcoming and easy to join. You can attend on your own and expect opportunities to connect with others in a natural way.

Can I attend multiple networking experiences?

Yes. You are encouraged to participate in as many as align with your schedule and goals.

How do I know which experiences are right for me?

Consider what you want to gain from the conference. Whether it is building your network, exploring leadership opportunities, or having more focused conversations, there are experiences designed to support each of these goals.

How does networking align with the conference experience?

Each experience is designed to help you build relationships that support your leadership growth, expand your perspective, and create opportunities that extend beyond the conference.