Reviewed by: Cindy Hatcher
Why Birmingham businesses won’t want to miss this Spring leadership conference
Reading time: 4 minutes
Sponsored
Looking for a powerful professional development opportunity for your team?
On March 3, 2026, more than 1,500 professionals will head to the Birmingham-Jefferson Convention Complex for Rise 2026, a full day of learning, skill-building and high-value connection with fellow community leaders.
We’re breaking down why companies across Alabama are already signing up, plus everything you need to know.
Why Rise 2026 matters—for leaders + their organizations
In a rapidly shifting workplace landscape, businesses are looking for practical, affordable ways to develop their talent. Momentum’s annual conference is built specifically to help teams return to work energized with actionable tools.
Why businesses invest in Rise 2026:
- Receive practical insights that employees can apply immediately
- Enjoy an inclusive, co-ed event welcoming leaders at every career stage
- Spend less than $500 for a full day of leadership development, networking + keynotes
Take it from Karla Wiles, past participant and Chief Talent & Communications Officer at EBSCO:
“The Momentum Conference has consistently provided our attendees with valuable leadership insights and actionable ideas they can implement immediately. It’s rare to find an event in Birmingham that delivers such significant leadership value for such a modest investment.
Sending your top talent and rising leaders doesn’t just demonstrate your commitment to their growth—it might be the simplest, highest-impact decision you’ll make this quarter.”
Karla Wiles, Chief Talent & Communications Officer, EBSCO
What to expect at Rise 2026
This year’s theme focuses on helping professionals lead with courage and communicate with clarity. Attendees will hear from three nationally recognized keynote speakers:
- Velera Wilson — Speaker, author, leadership development consultant + founder of Positive Identity
- Maureen Zappala — Author + founder of High Altitude Strategies
- Magie Cook — International speaker, author, philanthropist, + entrepreneur turned multi-millionaire
Throughout the day, participants can choose from 20 breakout sessions led by expert facilitators, each designed to strengthen skills including:
- Communication + storytelling
- Self-awareness + emotional intelligence
- Career growth + planning
- Vision-setting + action mapping
- Team leadership + decision-making
What participants are saying
Here’s why Birmingham leaders keep coming back every year:
“I’ve experienced the Momentum Conference as both a volunteer and a participant, and each time the energy has been absolutely magnetic. The opportunities to build meaningful connections are truly immense.”
Tiffany Stubbs, CVS Pharmacist, Chaplain at UAB + St. Vincent’s
“The Momentum Conference offers an outstanding opportunity to learn from a variety of speakers, connect with Birmingham professionals and enjoy an engaging experience. Each year, I leave with new knowledge or a meaningful connection. I highly encourage colleagues and friends to attend.”
Madison Menker, Director of Development at Encompass Health
Know before you go
Here’s what you need to know about Rise 2026:
- Date: Tuesday, March 3, 2026
- Time: 8:30AM–6:30PM
- Location: BJCC East Hall, 2100 Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd N.
- Register now
- Early bird rate: $425
- Standard rate (Register after January 10): $500
Want to put your brand at the center of Alabama’s largest gathering of purpose-driven leaders? Sponsor Rise 2026 to support Momentum’s mission while showcasing your organization as a champion of courage and clarity in leadership. Table sponsor benefits include:
- Premier recognition as a Table Sponsor on event signage, slides, emails, website + social media
- One (1) table of 8 at the 2026 Leadership Conference
- Advanced check-in
- Priority seating opportunities in breakout session rooms
- Invitations to the Courage Kickoff Party on March 2 for your employees and stakeholders
Join Momentum Leaders on March 3 at the BJCC East Hall for Rise 2026—Register yourself (+ your team!) today.
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