Overview
Registration
Lodging
Program
Leadership Seminar
Mobile Tour
Sponsors
Overview
The National Conference of Regions is NARC’s forum to discuss key policy issues and determine a legislative agenda for the year ahead, targeting topics central to our members and their local elected officials.
NARC hosts its annual National Conference of Regions in Washington, DC for councils of government, metropolitan planning organizations, and other regional organizations, and their local elected leaders and professional staff. The conference draws a national audience consisting of elected city, county, and state officials, diverse professionals, academics, and private sector representatives.
![NARC_Group[1]](https://i0.wp.com/narc.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/NARC_Group1.jpg?resize=150%2C150&ssl=1)
Registration
Secure your spot and join regional leaders from across the country for this must-attend event.
Member Registration
Non-Member Registration
By registering for the conference, attendees agree to abide by the following Code of Conduct.
Lodging
This year’s conference will take place at the Royal Sonesta Hotel Washington, DC – Capitol Hill. Located at 20 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20001, the Royal Sonesta is steps away from NARC headquarters and Congressional offices. NARC is offering an exclusive rate for conference attendees.
Our hotel block at the Royal Sonesta—Capitol Hill is now closed. If you still are in need of accommodations, please contact ann.link@narc.org, as rooms may become available.
Hotel Address:
Royal Sonesta Washington DC Capitol Hill
20 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20001
Please note the address. There are two Royal Sonesta hotels in Washington, DC. Our conference is at the Capitol Hill location.
Conference Program
This year’s sessions will explore the new presidential administration’s priorities and initiatives, how to position your work to align with the administration’s priorities, and legislative updates from Congress.
Sessions will also address our four key policy areas: transportation, economic and community development, emergency management and public safety, and energy and the environment. They are designed to equip regional leaders to shape policy and advocate effectively for their communities, on Capitol Hill, and with federal agencies. Stay tuned for a program that empowers your voice in Washington.
Leadership Seminar
Speaker: Tim Rahschulte, PhD, Chief Executive Officer, Professional Development Academy
Date/Time: Sunday, February 1, 2026; 8:30 AM – 12:30 PM ET
Location: NARC HQ, 660 N Capitol Street, NW DC
Cost: $185 for conference registrants; $285 if not registered
Today’s government and regional leaders are navigating unprecedented complexity and balancing evolving community needs, shifting policy landscapes, and growing demands for innovation and accountability. Don’t miss this leadership seminar focused on real-world strategies and leadership skills needed to guide your teams and communities through change effectively. Led by Dr. Tim Rahschulte, Chief Architect of the National Association of Regional Councils’ High Performance Leadership Academy, this session will explore the driving forces behind the growing need for change in government, from economic pressures to workforce shifts and more. Dr. Rahschulte will also share proven frameworks and leadership practices to help you build adaptability, foster resilience, and lead with a positive mindset—even in the face of resistance and uncertainty. Participants will walk away with practical concepts for planning, implementing, and sustaining change—plus insights from peers facing similar challenges. By the end of this session, participants will be better prepared to lead through complexity with clarity, confidence, and consistency.
Interested in participating in the full 12-week NARC High Performance Leadership Academy? Attend this workshop for your chance to win one of three FULL SCHOLARSHIPS.
Mobile Tour
Join an exclusive tour of DC’s award-winning rail system! The Washington Area Metropolitan Transportation Authority—WMATA or Metro to locals—was named the 2025 Outstanding Public Transit Agency of the Year by the American Public Transportation Association (APTA). On this behind-the-scenes tour, you’ll take in the beauty of Union Station, see system infrastructure up close, and learn about Metro’s recent service, safety, and design improvements. Along the way, learn about the region’s new funding initiatives, including the adoption of the DMV Moves plan, and discuss how a regional approach is shaping the future of transit in the DC area.
Meet at Union Station in the Main Hall (where it meets the West Hall) at 2 PM, Sunday, February 1st.
Sponsor
Days Until Conference
Annual Conference 2026
Hosted by Indian Nations
Council of Governments
Tulsa, Oklahoma
June 7-10, 2026
Executive Directors Conference & Board Retreat 2026
Hosted by San Luis Obispo Council of Governments
Pismo Beach, CA
October 18-21, 2026