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The DCREC Thought Leadership Conference is the premier forum dedicated to exploring the role of private real estate and related private market strategies within defined contribution plans.

Bringing together consultants, recordkeepers, asset managers, attorneys, advisors, and other retirement industry leaders, the conference examines the opportunities, challenges, and practical considerations involved in expanding access to private assets in the DC marketplace.

The program features discussions on private real estate, private credit, managed accounts, recordkeeper capabilities, regulatory developments, portfolio construction, and implementation trends, along with insights from DCREC’s annual industry benchmarking initiatives. Attendees will hear from leading practitioners and decision-makers shaping the future of retirement investing and gain valuable perspectives on how the industry is evolving.

Whether you are evaluating private asset solutions, navigating implementation considerations, or seeking to better understand the future direction of defined contribution investing, the DCREC Thought Leadership Conference offers a unique opportunity to learn from industry leaders, exchange ideas with peers, and engage in one of the most important conversations in the retirement industry.

Date
September 30, 2026
Additional programming on September 29
Thought Leadership Summit Location
110 Events | 110 N. Wacker Drive, Chicago, IL
Additional locations for Council Meeting + Reception

2026 Thought Leadership Summit

Sponsorship Packages

For the first time, sponsorship opportunities are open for the 2026 DCREC Thought Leadership Summit — a focused, single-day event reaching 100 targeted attendees and 3,000+ subscribers across asset managers, recordkeepers, consultants, and plan sponsors shaping the future of DC private markets. With multiple price points available, there's an opportunity to fit every firm's goals and budget. Explore the tiers below to find the right fit for your organization.
Premier sponsor (1/1 Available)

$12,000

The premier sponsorship—exclusive and highly visible. Your firm's name is woven into every touchpoint of the Summit, from pre-event email communications to the cocktail reception close.

• Sponsor of the closing cocktail reception
• Largest logo placement on event website and agenda
• Firm logo on all event signage and emails
• Dedicated email blast to 3,000+ contacts
• Dedicated social media post
• Verbal acknowledgement during opening and closing remarks

Wifi Sponsor (1/1 Available)
Meal or Lanyard Sponsor (3/3 Available)
Supporting Sponsor (3/3 Available)

Ready to sponsor?

Boost your firm's visibility while supporting the conversation shaping the future of DC private markets.

Submit the intake form

With any questions, reach out to us at info@dcrec.org.

We have secured a room block at the Sheraton Grand Chicago for the night of September 29th. Please click here to access the booking page.