​What’s it like to speak at the Summit?

If you haven’t attended before, this isn’t like other industry events.

We open the in-person summit together, before splitting into two tracks so delegates can choose content that suits their career stage and ambitions.

​

The virtual summit runs on a dedicated event platform designed for high interaction, not passive viewing. All in-person delegates receive access to the virtual event, and standalone virtual tickets are also available.

 

Our 2026 Theme: Bookkeepers Mean Business

This year, we want to celebrate what that truly looks like in practice.

Behind so many successful businesses is a bookkeeper, finance professional or payroll expert who has done far more than keep the numbers in order. They’ve offered reassurance. Spotted opportunities. Helped owners make confident decisions.

That’s the story we want to hear on stage.

We’re looking for:

• Real case studies showing the wider impact of financial support

• Stories that go beyond profit and into growth, stability and direction

• Examples of managing cashflow, tackling late payments, improving stock control, planning succession, adopting new tech or shaping strategy

If a client is willing to join you and share their perspective, even better. Hearing directly from business owners about the difference you’ve made is powerful.

 

Who attends?

Across our in-person and virtual events during Global Bookkeeping Week, we host over 800 bookkeepers.

Predominantly ICB members, we also welcome non-ICB bookkeepers who value the unique mix of community, inspiration and networking.

Recent data tells us:

• 65% are sole traders

• The average practice has 35 clients

• 7% have over 100 clients

• 54% run successful practices part time

• 78% are female

Most run small, agile practices and work closely with the businesses they support. They are thoughtful decision-makers who prioritise what benefits their clients.

 

What do they want to hear?

ICB Bookkeepers are forward-thinking, tech-savvy and community-minded. They are interested in:

• Practical new ideas and smarter ways of working

• Software and tools that genuinely make life easier

• Insight on running and growing their own businesses

• Clear updates on tax, legislation, payroll and wider business trends

Attending the Summit is a significant investment of time and money. Delegates expect sessions that educate, inspire and entertain.

It’s a competitive space. We’re looking for original content they won’t have heard elsewhere. And absolutely no sales pitches.

 

Who can apply?

Everyone is welcome.

If you have something valuable to share, we want to hear from you.

You might:

• Present solo

• Team up with a fellow bookkeeper

• Share a client success story

• Talk about working differently to create real change

If you haven’t spoken before, we can help you find coaching support. And if you’d like to talk through your idea before applying, you’re welcome to contact Elizabeth Carter.

 

How to apply

Complete the application form. You’ll be asked to provide:

• Contact details

• A high-resolution headshot

• A high-resolution company logo

• Speaker bio

• Session title and summary

• Preference for in-person or virtual

• ​

Deadline for applications: Friday 24 April.

​​