The Digital CPA Conference 2025 (DCPA25) is an essential gathering for firm leaders, innovators, and forward-thinking professionals eager to shape the future of accounting. Scheduled from December 7 to 10 at the Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center in National Harbor, Maryland, DCPA25 promises four days filled with learning experiences, collaborative opportunities, and future-focused strategies. However, the real value of this event extends beyond the scheduled sessions.
This year’s agenda has been meticulously designed to assist firms in transitioning from reactionary approaches to intentional strategies. Whether you are aiming to scale your advisory services, automate tax workflows, or embrace AI tools, there are numerous sessions and moments that warrant your attention.
Here are 9 standout sessions and side events that will provide you with fresh perspectives, practical tools, and opportunities for meaningful connections.
1. The Power of Data: Building a Data Strategy for Smarter Advisory
Speakers: Amanda Wilkie, Jody Padar
This session will guide you through the process of transforming client data into actionable insights. Participants will learn how leading firms are aligning their tools and strategies to enhance decision-making processes, increase the value of advisory services, and move beyond mere reactive reporting.
Attendees will explore case studies showcasing successful implementations of data strategies in accounting firms. For instance, hear how firms have used data analytics to identify trends in client behaviour, enabling them to offer tailored services that better meet client needs. By the end of this session, you will have a clearer understanding of how to leverage data to drive advisory growth and enhance client engagement.
2. Which Comes First: Process or Stack?
Speakers: Donny Shimamoto, Amy Vetter
If your technology stack feels bloated or disjointed, this session is a must-attend. You will learn the importance of documenting workflows before selecting tools that genuinely support your team's operational style.
This session will provide practical frameworks for assessing your current processes and technology. Participants will engage in exercises to identify workflow inefficiencies and determine which tools are essential. Expect to leave with actionable strategies to streamline your tech stack, ensuring it aligns with your firm’s operational goals.
3. Tax Transformation: Embracing Change Through Technology
Speakers: Jeff Cook, Liz Mason
This informative session will offer insights into how leading firms are modernising their tax preparation, review, and delivery processes. From AI-supported automation to enhanced collaboration with clients, this session will illuminate methods to reduce mundane tasks and reclaim valuable time.
Real-world examples will highlight the impact of technology on tax workflows, demonstrating how firms have successfully integrated AI and automation. Participants will gain insights into best practices for implementing these technologies, ensuring they can keep pace with an evolving industry.
4. AI in Action: The Real-World Use of Generative AI in Accounting Firms
Speakers: Marc Staut, Kristin Mathis
This practical session will delve into how firms are utilising generative AI to save time and boost productivity. Attendees will see examples of generative AI applications in crafting emails, summarising client discussions, and creating internal documentation.
In addition to showcasing these applications, the session will also provide guidance on governance and risk management associated with AI use. Participants will leave equipped with the knowledge to responsibly implement generative AI tools within their firms, ensuring they maintain compliance and protect client data.
5. Navigating the Audit Tech Landscape
Speakers: Byron Patrick and panel
The tools driving audit engagements are evolving rapidly. This session will offer a comprehensive overview of the current landscape, allowing attendees to understand what’s available, what’s effective, and how to make confident technology decisions that ensure audit teams remain efficient and compliant.
Participants will engage in discussions about various audit technologies, examining their features, benefits, and limitations. This session will empower attendees to evaluate their current audit tools and consider new options that align with their firm’s needs. You will also hear from firms that have successfully navigated technology transitions, offering insights into lessons learned and best practices.
6. From Time-Based to Value-Based Pricing
Track: CAS
This enlightening session will discuss how firms are shifting away from traditional hourly billing models toward value-based pricing structures. Attendees will learn how teams are designing pricing strategies that reflect outcomes, improve profit margins, and strengthen client relationships.
Case studies will illustrate how this transition can positively impact client satisfaction and retention. Participants will leave with practical tips on implementing value-based pricing, including methods for effectively communicating the benefits to clients and ensuring alignment between pricing and service delivery.
7. Designing Your Firm’s AI Policy
Workshop
As AI technologies become increasingly present in many firms, the need for formal policies is critical. This hands-on workshop will guide participants in drafting a foundational AI use policy for their teams. Key topics will include usage guidelines, data protection measures, and ensuring client transparency.
By collaborating with peers in this workshop, attendees will develop tailored policies that reflect the unique challenges and opportunities within their firms. The workshop will provide resources and templates to streamline the policy development process, ensuring a comprehensive approach to AI governance.
8. Peer Roundtables and Learning Lounges
These interactive sessions create a space for genuine conversations around shared challenges faced by accounting professionals. Whether issues involve capacity planning, onboarding new team members, or managing remote teams, these peer-led discussions bring practical insights from industry contemporaries.
Participants will have the opportunity to engage in small group discussions, allowing for deeper exploration of topics that matter most to them. This collaborative environment fosters the exchange of ideas, encouraging attendees to share their experiences and learn from one another.
9. Conference Tech Showcase and Partner Demos
Be sure to allocate time to explore the tech showcase during the conference. Vendors will be offering live demonstrations and Q&A sessions throughout the week, featuring solutions across categories such as workflow automation, cybersecurity, AI tools, and practice management.
This showcase provides an invaluable opportunity for attendees to evaluate and compare solutions side by side. Engaging with vendors directly will allow you to ask pertinent questions and gain insights into how these technologies can be integrated into your own practice effectively.
Side Events Around DCPA25
Beyond the official agenda, several side events will take place during DCPA25, offering more relaxed opportunities to connect, collaborate, and unwind. Hosted by trusted partners in the accounting tech space, these gatherings are designed to foster deeper conversations and strengthen community ties.
Whether you are arriving early or looking to recharge after a busy day of sessions, these events are worth adding to your calendar.
The AI After Hours Social
Date: Sunday, December 7 | Time: 7:30 PM – 10:00 PM
Location: Oxon Hill, MD (exact location shared after registration)
Hosted by: Filed, Vinyl, Karbon, Aider
Kick off DCPA25 with this casual Sunday night meetup. After the welcome reception wraps up, attendees are encouraged to join this laid-back gathering featuring golf bays, games, drinks, and light bites. This event presents a low-pressure environment for both new attendees and returning participants to meet, connect, and ease into the week ahead.
Request to Join: Registration is required and subject to approval.
Conference & Cocktails at Tom’s Watch Bar
Date: Monday, December 8 | Time: 6:30 PM – 8:30 PM
Location: Tom’s Watch Bar, National Harbor, MD
Hosted by: Softledger, Vinyl, Jetpack Workflow & Quanto
This Monday night social promises food, drinks, and a touch of friendly competition. With Topgolf swing bays, classic games, an open bar, and a full buffet, it’s the ideal way to unwind after a full day of engaging sessions. Attendees can look forward to a vibrant atmosphere, easy conversations, and the chance to build connections with peers outside the formal conference setting.
Request to Join: Registration is required and subject to approval.
Final Thought
DCPA25 is tailored for firm leaders who are serious about making progress in the accounting profession. Whether you’re rethinking your pricing strategy, evaluating new technologies, or figuring out how to incorporate AI into your workflows, this year’s sessions are focused on equipping you with the tools necessary for making clear, confident decisions.
The side events provide invaluable opportunities to build relationships and reflect on the insights gained in a more casual, authentic setting. These interactions can often lead to collaborations that extend well beyond the conference itself.
To explore the full agenda and register, visit cpa.com/digital-cpa/agenda.
If you’re interested in attending the side events, be sure to request access early, as space is limited. Don’t miss the chance to maximise your experience at DCPA25 by engaging with fellow professionals and exploring new ideas that can propel your firm forward.
