The National Self-Direction Conference
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The National Self-Direction Conference
Logo: The National Self-Direction Conference. Features postcard that reads meet us in Minnesota

The National Self-Direction Conference

Wed, May 27, 2026 - Fri, May 29, 2026

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  • About
  • Registration
  • Call For Proposals
  • Travel Details
  • Sponsors & Exhibitors

The National Self-Direction Conference

The premier gathering for self-direction professionals, advocates, and stakeholders. This is the only national conference dedicated entirely to self-direction. Every session, every conversation, and every connection is focused on advancing choice and control for people with disabilities and older adults.

Who You Will Meet

We bring together

• People with lived experience

• State Medicaid officials & program administrators

• Financial Management Services (FMS) providers

• Managed Care Organizations

• National policy experts

• Direct service providers and consultants

• Researchers

How We're Evolving: 2026 & Beyond 

New Location

→ We're bringing the conference to a fresh venue that better serves our growing community

Annual In-Person Commitment

→ Moving to an annual in-person event that rotates nationwide

Enhanced Community Involvement

→ Expanded planning committee representation to ensure the conference reflects diverse perspectives

Extended Programming

→ Additional intensive sessions focusing on emerging trends and challenges

At A Glance 

Three days of programming, networking, and collaboration

Wednesday, May 27

• Mid-day start 

• Opening plenary luncheon

• Intensive sessions 

• Welcome reception

Thursday, May 28

• Full day programming

• Exhibitor reception

• Karaoke night • Silent disco

Friday, May 29

• Morning breakout sessions

• Hackathon

• Early release by 3 PM

What Attendees Are Saying 

“Every year I leave with new ideas, partnerships, and a renewed sense of purpose.”

“You can’t quantify the knowledge and energy you get from this conference. Talking with people from other states helps you learn what works — and what doesn’t.” 

““Lively exchanges occur in workshops, hallways, and after-hours, fostering dynamic experiences and connections with like-minded individuals.”

“It's priceless knowledge that you can't get any other way”

Our Sponsors 

Whether you want to host an unforgettable evening or expand access for all participants, your sponsorship helps make this national gathering possible — and demonstrates your leadership in advancing self-direction.

Contact Brenda Vitale at brenda@selfdirectioncenter.org for a copy of the Sponsorship and Exhibitor Prospectus. 

We extend our deepest gratitude to our sponsors, whose generous support make this conference amazing! 

Diamond
Registration & Check-In Bag Sponsor
Diamond
Welcome Reception Sponsor
Diamond
Afterparty Karaoke Night Sponsor
Gold
Intensive Session Sponsor
Gold
Story Studio Sponsor
Gold
On-Demand Digital Library Sponsor
Gold
Plenary Luncheon Sponsor
Silver
Lanyard Sponsor
SIlver
Printed Program & Workbook Sponsor
Bronze
Silent Disco Sponsor
Bronze
Snack Break Sponsor
Bronze
Break Sponsor
Bronze
Directional Signage Sponsor
Bronze
Wellness Room Sponsor
Friends of Self-Direction
Conference Support Grant

Submit Your Ideas! 

Proposals are due by January 23rd.

Before you get started, review our Guidance for a Successful Proposal to understand what the Content Committee looks for and how to make your session stand out.

Review the tips before submitting your proposal to ensure your application is as strong and competitive as possible.

Review the Guidance for Successful Proposals


Countdown

Time Until Event Begins!
164:
20:
36
Days
Hours
Minutes
the self-direction center logo

The National Self-Direction Conference is a program of The Self-Direction Center, a nonprofit dedicated to strengthening self-direction through collaboration, community, and collective action nationwide.

@2025 The Self-Direction Center is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.

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