Business Today’s 52nd International Conference will bring together a diverse group of business-oriented undergraduates from across the world for an all-expenses-paid conference in Manhattan this November 6th through 8th, 2026.
This year’s theme, “The Social Architecture,” explores how the invisible structures of relationships, rituals, and trust shape every organization. In a world increasingly organized by data, platforms, and automation, this theme asks how leaders can design environments that still put people—rather than processes—at the center. Across industries, we’ll examine how culture is built (or broken) through everyday interactions, from team norms and meeting rhythms to how we onboard, mentor, and make decisions together. Through keynotes, panels, and interactive sessions, we’ll spotlight the practices that create deeper connection in an age of constant connection: spaces for genuine conversation, communities of belonging, and networks that prioritize depth over breadth. Ultimately, we ask: how do we build organizations that are not just high-performing, but humane—places where structure supports real learning, shared purpose, and lasting impact?
Past keynotes have included Steve Forbes (CEO, Forbes Magazine), Muhtar Kent (Former CEO of Coca-Cola), Wendy Kopp (CEO and Co-Founder of Teach For All), Jane Fraser (CEO, Citigroup), Douglas Peterson (former President & CEO of S&P Global), Anthony Capuano (CEO of Marriott International), Scott Mills (President & CEO of BET+).
The application deadlines are below. Applicants are selected on a rolling basis, so applying as early as possible is recommended. International students are STRONGLY encouraged to apply in the 1st round and will have decreased chances of being considered in the regular round. **Follow @businesstoday1968 on Instagram for application updates!**
- Early Application: June 20th (11:59 P.M. EST)
- Regular Application: August 10th (11:59 P.M. EST)
Eligibility Notice: Applicants must be currently enrolled as undergraduate students at a college or university, or be an incoming first-year (rising freshman) undergraduate student who will be enrolling in a college or university in the fall. Graduate students (e.g., MBA, MA, PhD) are not eligible. Please note: students currently enrolled at Princeton University are not eligible to apply.
Additionally, we are excited to announce that there is now one additional way of being accepted to the International Conference: the Impact Challenge! For more information about the Impact Challenge visit https://businesstoday.applytojob.com/apply/RythzyU7Mk/2026-Impact-Challenge.
We will also be hosting a virtual International Conference, in which attendees will receive the opportunity to attend executive seminars and panels from wherever they are. The virtual conference will happen at the same time as the in-person one. If interested, please check "Yes" for the question regarding consideration for the virtual conference.
Please note that the application is susceptible to deleting progress when refreshing. It is recommended to complete the application in one sitting or save your work in a separate document.
Please also note that the Student Relations team has multiple A.I. detection tools that will be randomly used on applications. Please do not use any A.I. large language models when completing the written portion of the application.
Feel free to reach out to [email protected] with any questions. Best of luck!
Skills Required
- Currently enrolled undergraduate student or incoming first-year undergraduate (rising freshman)
- Graduate students (MBA, MA, PhD) are not eligible
- Students currently enrolled at Princeton University are not eligible to apply
- Apply by listed deadlines (Early: June 20; Regular: August 10)
- Do not use AI large language models for the written application; AI detection tools will be used
- Option to be considered for the virtual conference (select yes on application)
- Impact Challenge as an alternate pathway to acceptance (see application link)
What We Do
Business Today provides small and medium-sized business owners and managers with the knowledge and skills to improve their businesses through educational seminars, a national magazine for entrepreneurs, and a research board. Founded in 1968, it aims to be a leading forum for student-executive interaction, notably through the Design Nation conference, which connects undergraduate students with industry leaders to explore design across various industries.
