Skip to main content

CIO conferences are a great place to network because they bring together industry leaders and innovators to share insights on the latest trends and technologies shaping the future of IT.

Whether you're looking to pick up a new tactic for your IT initiatives or keep up with the latest in AI and cloud computing, there's an option for you. Level up your IT leadership skills at these must-attend CIO conferences in 2025.

16 Best CIO Conferences Shortlist

Here’s my list of the best CIO conferences worth attending this year:

  1. Google Cloud Next 25 - Las Vegas, NV (April 2025)
  2. Large City/County CIO Summit  - Seattle, WA (April 2025)
  3. CxO Institute: USA - New York, NY (April 2025)
  4. MIT Sloan CIO Symposium - Cambridge, MA (May 2025)
  5. CIO SoCal Summit - SoCal, USA (June 2025)
  6. American CIO & Cybersecurity Summit - San Francisco, CA (June 2025)
  7. CIO 100 Symposium & Awards - Scottsdale, AZ (August 2025)
  8. CIO Edge - Sydney, Australia (August 2025)
  9. Global CIO Executive Summit - New Orleans, LA (September 2025)
  10. IRL - Alberta, Canada (October 2025)
  11. Gartner IT Symposium/Xpo - Orlando, FL (October 2025)
  12. Melbourne CIO Executive Summit - TBA (November 2025)
  13. CISO Flagship Canada Summit - Montréal, Canada (December 2025)
  14. CIO Leadership Forum - Multiple Locations and Dates
  15. Logicalis CIO Summit - Multiple Locations and dates
  16. Digital Enterprise CIO Transformation Assembly - Multiple Locations and Dates

Find more details about each conference below.

Best CIO Conferences

Below are my summaries of the best CIO conferences on my shortlist. My reviews examine each event’s dates, location, pricing, and unique offerings.

1. Google Cloud Next 25 - Las Vegas, Nevada (April 9-11, 2025)

Google Cloud Next 25 landing page screenshot
The Google Cloud Next 25

Overview:
Google Cloud Next 25 is a premier conference for cloud professionals and enthusiasts initiated by Google Cloud. It's known for featuring industry leaders and technology experts. Past events have included notable speakers like Sundar Pichai and Thomas Kurian.

Why you should attend:
You should attend to explore the latest advancements in AI and cloud technologies. The event will feature expert-led sessions and workshops that focus on real-world applications. You'll have the opportunity to network with peers and industry leaders. The conference will help you and your team enhance cloud capabilities and stay informed on cutting-edge innovations.

2. Large City/County CIO Summit - Seattle, Washington (April 9-10, 2025)

Large City/County CIO Summit landing page screenshot
Large City/County CIO Summit

Overview:
The Large City/County CIO Summit is an exclusive event for local government CIOs, focusing on technology challenges and opportunities. It features notable speakers like Rob Lloyd, the City of Seattle's chief technology officer, and John Matelski, the Executive Director of the Center for Digital Government. The summit is known for fostering networking and strategic discussions.

Why you should attend:
You'll gain insights into cybersecurity, workforce development, and AI's role in government. The summit offers a platform for local government CIOs to discuss shared challenges. It's a chance to network with peers and learn from experienced leaders in public sector technology. Your team will benefit from the strategic knowledge shared in this focused environment.

Discover how to deliver better software and systems in rapidly scaling environments.

Discover how to deliver better software and systems in rapidly scaling environments.

By submitting this form you agree to receive our newsletter and occasional emails related to the CTO. You can unsubscribe at anytime. For more details, review our Privacy Policy. We're protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

3. CxO Institute: USA - New York, USA (April 30, 2025)

Speakers in front of the attendees at CxO Institute: USA
Introducing Speakers at CxO Institute: USA
  • Dates: April 30, 2025
  • Location: In-person in New York, USA
  • Pricing: Register to see current pricing
  • Website: CxO Institute
  • Social Media: Linkedin, Instagram

Overview:

The CxO Institute: USA is a one-day event in New York City on April 30, 2025, focusing on digital transformation, data, and cybersecurity. It's designed for leaders to discuss AI, automation, Zero Trust security, and cloud strategies. The event aims to provide actionable insights for driving innovation and managing risks.

Why you should attend:

At this event, you'll explore leveraging AI and automation to boost operational efficiency. Discussions will cover implementing Zero Trust architectures to enhance security and optimizing cloud strategies for better cost management and scalability. You'll gain insights into advanced data analytics and strategy to build cyber resilience against emerging threats by engaging with peers. This is a valuable opportunity to stay ahead in the evolving tech landscape.

4. MIT Sloan CIO Symposium - Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA (May 20, 2025)

MIT Sloan CIO Community page screenshot
The MIT Sloan CIO Community conference

Overview:

The MIT Sloan CIO Symposium is an annual event that connects MIT academics, CIOs, and industry experts to explore technology leadership. The 2025 symposium will highlight generative AI and its impact on CIO leadership in an AI-driven world. Past speakers have included leaders like Sean McCormack and Angelica Tritzo, offering insights into emerging technologies and digital transformation strategies.

Why you should attend:

Attending the MIT Sloan CIO Symposium will provide you with insights into the latest trends in AI and their impact on CIO leadership. You'll have the opportunity to network with senior IT decision-makers and gain actionable strategies to navigate the evolving technological landscape. The event also features the Innovation Showcase, highlighting early-stage companies with cutting-edge solutions. Participating in this symposium will help you stay ahead in the rapidly changing tech environment.

5. CIO SoCal Summit - Southern California, USA (June 19, 2025)

CIO SoCal Summit website landing page screenshot
The CIO SoCal Summit
  • Dates: June 19, 2025
  • Location: In-person in Southern California, USA
  • Pricing: Register to see current pricing
  • Website: CDM Media

Overview:

The CIO SoCal Summit is a one-day event for CIOs and senior IT executives to explore current technology trends and strategies. It provides a platform for networking and knowledge sharing and features case studies from industry leaders that highlight real-world challenges and successful digital initiatives.

Why you should attend:

Attending the CIO SoCal Summit will provide you with insights into the latest IT innovations and best practices. You'll be able to engage with peers through interactive sessions and panel discussions. The event focuses on addressing the challenges and opportunities faced by today's technology leaders. Participating in this summit will help you stay informed and connected in the evolving tech landscape.

6. American CIO & Cybersecurity Summit - San Francisco, California (June 2-3, 2025)

Website screenshot of American CIO & Cybersecurity Summit
American CIO & Cybersecurity Summit

Overview:
American CIO & IT Summit is an annual event for CIOs, CTOs, CISOs, and IT professionals, focusing on AI, cloud strategy, and cybersecurity. It offers networking, expert presentations, and discussions on technology trends. The summit fosters collaboration among senior-level delegates. Notable speakers this year include Iain Mulholland, Global Head of Google Cloud Product Security at Google; Nathalie D'Hers, Corporate VP, Information Technology of Microsoft.

Why you should attend:
This summit deeply delves into AI, cloud strategies, and cybersecurity management. You'll engage with top industry leaders and explore cutting-edge technology trends. The event is invitation-only, ensuring meaningful interactions with senior executives. Your team will gain valuable insights into digital transformation strategies.

7. CIO 100 Symposium & Awards - Scottsdale, Arizona (August 11-13, 2025)

Speaker discussions during CIO 100 Symposium & Awards
Panel of Speakers at CIO 100 Symposium & Awards

Overview:
CIO 100 Symposium & Awards is a prestigious event celebrating IT excellence and innovation. It brings together CIOs and industry leaders for keynotes and networking. Notable past speakers include Christie Pearce Rampone and Dr. Poppy Crum.

Why you should attend:
You'll explore the latest in data management, cybersecurity, and AI scaling. The event offers invaluable networking opportunities with top IT professionals. Engage in discussions that align technology strategies with business goals. Your team will benefit from insights shared by leading industry experts.

8. CIO Edge - Sydney, Australia (August 26, 2025)

CIOs and IT leaders attend CIO Edge Conference
CIOs and IT leaders from the region's largest enterprises and government organisations attend the CIO Edge Conference.

Overview:

CIO Edge is an invitation-only conference for CIOs and IT leaders from Australia's leading enterprise and government organizations. Its focus is on achieving operational excellence through technology leadership.

Why you should attend:

At CIO Edge, you'll engage with over 180 peers to discuss the latest IT operating models and strategies. The conference offers insights from global experts and technologists, providing actionable methodologies for enterprise-wide transformation. Networking opportunities include roundtable discussions and fast-track introductions, allowing you to learn from the experiences of others and share ideas. This is a chance to stay ahead of ANZ market trends in cybersecurity, data analytics, and digital transformation.

9. Global CIO Executive Summit - New Orleans, Louisiana, USA (September 2025)

Global CIO Executive Summit page screenshot
The Global CIO Executive Summit

Overview:

The Global CIO Executive Summit is a three-day event for CIOs leading global operations. It offers a platform to exchange ideas and validate strategies unique to large, complex organizations. Past speakers have included top executives from companies like The Kraft Heinz Company and Philips.

Why you should attend:

At this summit, you'll engage in candid discussions and deep dives into critical issues facing global CIOs. The event focuses on transitioning from tech oversight to strategic innovation, harnessing cutting-edge technology to elevate business outcomes, and optimizing resources through value maximization. It's an opportunity to connect with true peers who lead their functions globally and share similar challenges.

10. IRL - Alberta, Canada (Oct 2025)

IRL website screenshot
The innovative IRL event aims to help SaaS executives build lasting connections with other leaders.
  • Dates: October 1-4, 2025
  • Location: Alberta, Canada
  • Pricing: From $2,950
  • Website: IRL

Overview:

IRL is an immersive conference for executive teams in SaaS, focusing on scaling from millions to billions in revenue. Designed for leaders driving growth beyond $10 million ARR, it offers participant-driven sessions in a natural setting. The event emphasizes collaboration among senior leaders to tackle scaling challenges.

Why you should attend:

At IRL, you'll engage in hands-on workshops and roundtable discussions tailored to your growth stage. The conference fosters deep connections with other SaaS executives, providing a platform to share experiences and solutions. Set in the scenic landscapes of Alberta, it offers a refreshing environment to rethink strategies and drive your business forward.

11. Gartner IT Symposium/Xpo - Multiple locations and dates

Gartner IT Symposium/Xpo™ landing page screenshot
The Gartner IT Symposium/Xpo™ Conference

Gartner IT Symposium/Xpo Conference: Dates, Locations, Price

DateLocationPrice
September 8-10, 2025Gold Coast, AustraliaStandard: AU$5,725 +GSTPublic-sector: AU$4,775 +GST
October 20-23, 2025Orlando, Florida, USAStandard: $7,925Public-sector: $5,925
October 28-30, 2025Tokyo, JapanStandard: ¥352,00Public-sector: ¥295,900
November 10-13, 2025Barcelona, Spain
Standard: €6,975Public-sector: €5,350
November 17-19, 2025Kochi, India
Standard: €6,975Public-sector: €5,350

Overview:

The Gartner IT Symposium/Xpo is a premier conference for CIOs and senior IT executives, providing valuable insights into digital transformation and business strategy. It began in the late 1990s and features notable speakers like Jensen Huang, Founder and CEO of NVIDIA, and Malcolm Gladwell, Bestselling Author and Host of Revisionist History. The event provides a platform for networking and learning about future technology trends.

Why you should attend:

At this conference, you'll delve into emerging trends and strategies shaping the future of IT. Engage in interactive sessions covering cybersecurity, data analytics, and digital transformation—also, network with peers to share experiences and solutions to common challenges. Access to Gartner experts offers valuable insights to inform your organization's strategic decisions.

12. Melbourne CIO Executive Summit – Melbourne, Australia (November 2025)

Melbourne CIO Executive Summit website page screenshot
The Melbourne CIO Executive Summit Conference
  • Dates: November 2025 (specific date TBA)
  • Location: TBA
  • Pricing: TBA
  • Website: Evanta
  • Social Media: LinkedIn, X

Overview:

The Melbourne CIO Executive Summit is a one-day event for top CIOs in Melbourne to tackle shared business challenges and critical priorities. It offers peer-driven topics and interactive discussions among C-level peers. Past speakers have included executives from organizations like Coles Group and Viva Energy.

Why you should attend:

At this summit, you'll engage in interactive sessions led by CIO practitioners and thought leaders who will address current challenges in your role. The event offers opportunities for community networking, enabling you to establish new connections and catch up with peers in the Melbourne CIO community.

Additionally, you can participate in peer-to-peer meetings, connecting with like-minded professionals in private, one-on-one settings. This is an opportunity to discuss critical issues, including the integration of AI in cybersecurity, collaboration for digital innovation, and the focus on architecture and innovation.

13. CISO Flagship Canada Summit – Toronto, Ontario, Canada (December 20, 2025)

The CISO Flagship Canada Summit landing page screenshot
The CISO Flagship Canada Summit Conference
  • Dates: December 20, 2025
  • Location: In-person in Montréal, Canada
  • Pricing: Register to see the current pricing
  • Website: CDM Media

Overview:

The CISO Flagship Canada Summit is an exclusive event tailored for Chief Information Security Officers and senior IT security executives across Canada. It provides a platform to discuss emerging cybersecurity challenges and strategies. Past speakers have included leaders from major Canadian financial institutions and government agencies, such as Derek Shaw, CIO and Global Vice President, H.B. Fuller, and Ray Laudenbach, Segment Information Security Officer at Optum.

Why you should attend:

At this summit, you'll discuss the latest cybersecurity threats and solutions in-depth. The event provides opportunities to network with peers who face similar challenges in the Canadian landscape. You'll gain insights into best practices and innovative approaches to safeguarding your organization's information assets. This is a chance to stay ahead in the ever-evolving field of cybersecurity.

14. CIO Leadership Forum – Multiple locations and dates

CIO Leadership Forum landing page screenshot
The CIO Leadership Forum

CIO Leadership Forum: Dates, Locations, and Pricing below

DatesLocationsPricing
February 10-11, 2025Hollywood, FloridaStandard: $4,725; Public sector: $3,875
February 24-25, 2025Phoenix, ArizonaStandard: $4,725;Public sector: $3,875
March 11-12, 2025 London, United KingdomStandard: €4,175; Public-sector: €3,375
May 6-7, 2025Sydney, AustraliaStandard: AU$4,450 + GST; Public-sector: AU$3,450 + GST
July 9-10, 2025Tokyo, JapanStandard: JP¥ 224,400 (Tax excluded: JP¥204,000)
Public-sector: JP¥ 190,300 (Tax excluded: JP¥ 173,000)

Overview:

The CIO Leadership Forum is a series of exclusive events for Chief Information Officers, focusing on leadership development and digital business growth. Sessions explore how chief digital leaders can apply outcome-driven strategies and collaborate with C-suite peers to accelerate digital transformation. The forum provides valuable insights into navigating evolving IT challenges and driving innovation within enterprises.

Why you should attend:

At these forums, you'll access data-driven research tailored for CIOs, helping you lead beyond your function. The events offer opportunities to validate your strategies through interactions with experts and peers. Networking sessions are designed to foster meaningful connections among fellow CIOs, providing a platform for discussing challenges and sharing solutions.

Attending will equip you with actionable insights to navigate complex business landscapes and drive growth.

15. Logicalis CIO Summit - Multiple Locations and dates

Logicalis CIO Summit landing page screenshot
The Logicalis CIO Summit
  • Dates: TBD
  • Location: Multiple locations (see table below)
  • Pricing: TBD
  • Website: Logicalis
  • Social Media: LinkedIn, X, Youtube

Logicalis CIO Summit: Locations below

Location
London, UK
Sydney, Australia
Melbourne, Australia
Frankfurt, Germany
Hongkong

Overview:

The Global CIO Summit is one of the key CIO events for IT leaders looking to expand their influence beyond traditional IT functions. It emphasizes outcome-driven leadership to accelerate digital business models and drive growth. The summit offers valuable insights and networking opportunities, enabling CIOs and IT executives to navigate complex challenges in an evolving digital landscape.

Why you should attend:

At this summit, you'll explore how to spearhead the future of business and technology. The event includes sessions on applying outcome-driven leadership, leading beyond your function, and partnering with C-suite peers to accelerate digital business models and enable growth. It's an opportunity to connect with peers and gain insights to navigate complex challenges.

16. Digital Enterprise CIO Transformation Assembly - Austin, Texas, USA (March 11-12, 2025)

Digital Enterprise CIO Transformation Assembly website screenshot
Digital Enterprise CIO Transformation Assembly

Overview:

The Digital Enterprise CIO Transformation Assembly is a two-day event where global Chief Information Officers discuss industry trends and challenges. The agenda covers Artificial Intelligence, data management, and digital transformation.

Past speakers include Eileen Vidrine, former Chief Data and AI Officer at the U.S. Department of the Air Force, and Wei Manfredi, VP of Global Architecture, Data & AI at McDonald's. Sessions focus on real-world applications of AI, strategic innovation, and the evolving role of CIOs in enterprise technology.

Why you should attend:

At this assembly, you'll connect with fellow CIOs to explore topics like big data, navigating economic downturns, and strategies for successful data governance. The agenda is curated by an industry-expert advisory board, ensuring discussions are relevant and high-level. Attending will provide you with valuable insights and connections to drive your organization's digital transformation.

What's Next?

Boost your SaaS growth and leadership skills.

Subscribe to our newsletter for the latest insights from CTOs and aspiring tech leaders. We'll help you scale smarter and lead stronger with expert guides, resources, and strategies.

Katie Sanders

As a data-driven content strategist, editor, writer, and community steward, Katie helps technical leaders win at work. Her 15 years of experience in the tech space makes her well-rounded to provide technical audiences with first-hand operating wisdom so senior tech leaders can get clarity.

Tech leaders want to learn from peers who’ve been there. Katie surfaces hard-won lessons that help CTOs scale systems, teams, and strategy in the face of disruption.