ACG’s DealMAX Conference Hits Record Scale, Reflecting Strong Middle-Market Activity
The Association for Corporate Growth said its annual DealMAX conference reached record levels in 2026, underscoring the event’s growing importance as a central hub for middle-market dealmaking and industry connectivity.
Held April 27–29 at the ARIA Resort & Casino, the three-day conference drew more than 3,500 attendees, marking the largest gathering in the event’s history. Participants included nearly 900 private equity professionals, over 900 investment bankers and approximately 900 M&A advisors, reflecting broad representation across the dealmaking ecosystem.
Expanded Participation Across Capital Markets
Attendance from lending and capital markets professionals exceeded 1,000 for the first time, as organizers sought to broaden participation across the full spectrum of dealmaking stakeholders.
The increase highlights a shift toward more integrated collaboration among private equity firms, lenders, advisors and corporate development teams, as competition for deals intensifies in the middle market.
Record Meeting Activity Signals Strong Deal Flow
DealMAX 2026 facilitated more than 140,000 one-on-one meeting requests through ACG’s proprietary scheduling platform, reflecting strong demand for direct engagement among participants.
A new “Meet Now” feature enabled real-time scheduling, improving efficiency and allowing attendees to maximize networking opportunities during the event.
Organizers also introduced an expanded DealMAX Lounge with redesigned meeting spaces and increased deal tables to accommodate higher attendance and meeting volume.
Content Focused on Market Trends and Innovation
The conference featured 61 speakers across 18 sessions, covering topics including M&A market outlooks, sector-specific trends and the growing role of artificial intelligence in dealmaking.
Panels addressed developments in consumer markets, sports investments and technology-driven transformation, while keynote sessions provided data-driven insights into current deal activity and valuation trends.
Technology and Experience Enhancements
In addition to meeting infrastructure upgrades, the event incorporated new technology features aimed at improving attendee experience. These included AI-enabled tools and interactive elements designed to streamline networking and information sharing.
Organizers said the focus on efficiency reflects evolving expectations among dealmakers, who are increasingly seeking high-impact interactions within limited timeframes.
Leadership Transition and Strategic Initiatives
The event also marked a leadership transition, with Suzie Doran assuming the role of chair of the ACG headquarters board.
During the conference, ACG announced new collaborations with technology and training providers aimed at expanding member resources and enhancing professional development opportunities.
Industry Context
DealMAX has grown into one of the most prominent gatherings for middle-market M&A professionals, serving as a platform for deal sourcing, relationship building and market intelligence.
The record turnout reflects renewed momentum in the private capital markets, as firms seek to navigate a complex environment shaped by higher interest rates, valuation adjustments and evolving financing structures.
ACG said the continued expansion of DealMAX highlights the importance of in-person connectivity in an increasingly digital investment landscape.
The organization plans to return to Las Vegas for the next edition of the conference in May 2027, with expectations of further growth as the global M&A market evolves.
The latest event underscores DealMAX’s position as a key venue for dealmakers seeking to build pipelines, exchange insights and capitalize on emerging opportunities in the middle market.
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