Best Trade Shows For Accounting Software in 2025
Trade shows are pivotal events for accounting software vendors, providing invaluable opportunities for networking, lead generation, and staying abreast of industry developments. Choosing the right trade show can significantly impact a company's success in the highly competitive accounting landscape. By attending these events, vendors and professionals can showcase their products, connect with prospective clients, and stay informed of emerging trends and technologies. This guide provides a comprehensive analysis of the best trade shows for accounting software, helping businesses and professionals make informed decisions about which events to attend or exhibit at. Within this fast changing technological landscape, it's crucial to get the most up to date information.
What's In This Guide
- •Our Selection Methodology
- •Selection Criteria
- •AICPA & CIMA ENGAGE - Best Overall - Comprehensive event for accounting professionals.
- •Scaling New Heights - Best for QuickBooks ProAdvisors - Focused on QuickBooks expertise.
- •Accountex USA - Best for Broad Exposure - Extensive event for accounting and finance professionals.
- •XeroCon - Best for Xero Users - Highly specialized event for Xero accounting platform.
- •ICPA Conferences - Best for CPAs - Focused training geared toward CPAs.
- •Conclusion & Recommendations
- •Frequently Asked Questions
Our Selection Methodology
Our selection process involved analyzing data from multiple sources, including industry reports, exhibitor feedback, and attendee surveys. We utilized AI algorithms to process and analyze trade show metrics across the above selection criteria. These include the number of attendees, the quality of conference sessions, and exhibitor profiles for each show. User reviews and expert opinions were also collected and incorporated into the final assessment. This multifaceted approach provided weighted scores for each trade show, enabling a structured ranking based on objective criteria.
Selection Criteria
Target Audience Relevance
Evaluates the show's success in attracting the right audience: accounting professionals, business owners, and decision-makers relevant to accounting software.
Exhibitor Quality and Quantity
Assesses the number and reputation of exhibitors to determine networking and lead generation opportunities.
Educational Content
Considers the quality and relevance of educational sessions, workshops, and keynote speeches on industry trends.
Networking Opportunities
Focuses on structured and informal networking prospects within the event, which can be in the form of organized meetups, receptions, or shared spaces.
Cost and Value
Compares the cost of exhibiting or attending against the potential return on investment, considering factors such as lead generation and brand exposure.
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Top 5 Trade Shows For Accounting Software in 2025
AICPA & CIMA ENGAGE
Best Overall - Comprehensive event for accounting professionals.
https://engage.aicpa.org/Pros
- Excellent educational content tailored for accounting professionals.
- High-quality networking opportunities.
- Significant exposure to leading software providers.
Cons
- Can be relatively more expensive compared to smaller, more localized events.
- Requires significant time and resource commitment to prepare and attend.
Key Specifications
The AICPA & CIMA ENGAGE event is an outstanding trade show for accounting software, bringing together industry leaders, software developers, and CPAs for several days which involves several tracks of educational sessions, workshops, and networking opportunities. ENGAGE offers unparalleled educational content as well as an extensive exhibition hall with booths from the leading accounting tech providers. The conference includes top-notch speakers and educational sessions, covering areas like cloud accounting, financial reporting, technology solutions, and industry trends. It attracts a high-quality audience from leading accounting firms and businesses.
Scaling New Heights
Best for QuickBooks ProAdvisors - Focused on QuickBooks expertise.
https://www.accountexusa.com/scaling-new-heightsPros
- Highly focused on QuickBooks-related training and networking.
- Exceptional hands-on training sessions.
- Strong networking opportunities for ProAdvisors and consultants.
Cons
- Smaller scale compared to national or international events.
Key Specifications
Scaling New Heights, hosted by The Sleeter Group (now part of Accountex USA), is specifically designed for QuickBooks ProAdvisors. Offers a deep dive into QuickBooks software, with hands-on training and breakout sessions which covers topics such as advanced bookkeeping, accounting software, and advisory services. Attendees include accountants, bookkeepers, and consultants. This event provides unparalleled expertise in a focused environment.
Accountex USA
Best for Broad Exposure - Extensive event for accounting and finance professionals.
https://www.accountexusa.com/Pros
- Broad range of exhibitors, including both established and emerging software vendors.
- Extensive selection of educational sessions and workshops.
- Strong emphasis on networking for a wide audience.
Cons
- Can be broad in scope, requiring careful planning.
Key Specifications
Accountex USA presents an expansive event encompassing numerous aspects of accounting and finance, including a strong focus on accounting software and technology. This comprehensive event attracts accounting professionals, business owners, and technology vendors. Offers a vast exhibit hall with a broad range of software and technology solutions, insightful educational sessions, and networking events to help improve business.
XeroCon
Best for Xero Users - Highly specialized event for Xero accounting platform.
https://www.xero.com/xerocon/Pros
- Exceptional focus on the Xero platform and ecosystem.
- Excellent training resources for Xero users and partners.
- Strong community-oriented networking opportunities.
Cons
- Can be a niche event, that might not meet the needs of everyone
Key Specifications
XeroCon is a trade show specifically for Xero accounting platform users, partners, and developers. The event features Xero executives, software developers, and accountants. This event is highly specialized, concentrating on the Xero ecosystem. The focus is on advanced training, new product announcements, and networking within the Xero community. XeroCon provides advanced training sessions, and updates on new features and integrations.
Pros
- Provides targeted content for Certified Public Accountants and other accounting professionals.
- Features specialized content in tax and technology updates.
- Network with other CPAs
Cons
- Smaller scale and may not offer as many diverse options as larger events.
Key Specifications
ICPA (Institute of Certified Public Accountants) hosts regional and national conferences which include exhibits from accounting software companies. These conferences typically provide education on accounting principles, tax updates, and technology. Offers specific training and networking events geared toward CPAs. The educational sessions are developed by experts and cover current topics and trends.
Conclusion
Choosing the right trade show for your accounting software needs depends on your specific goals, whether it's lead generation, networking, or staying updated on industry trends. The recommended trade shows provide a good mix of these elements, focusing on a targeted audience and providing opportunities for meaningful interactions and business growth. Make sure to check dates and locations well in advance and register early to maximize your benefit from these important events.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I choose the right accounting software trade show for my business?
Consider the show's focus, the target audience, the cost of participation, and the potential ROI. Research past attendees and exhibitors to gauge the quality of networking opportunities. Also, look for shows with relevant educational sessions and workshops.
What are the typical costs associated with attending or exhibiting at an accounting software trade show?
Exhibiting typically involves booth fees, display equipment, marketing materials, staff travel, and promotional activities during the show. Sponsorship can add further costs but offers enhanced visibility and networking opportunities. Attending requires registration fees, travel, and accommodation.
How can I maximize my return on investment from attending or exhibiting at a trade show?
Be prepared with marketing materials, including brochures and presentations. Network actively with attendees, collect leads, and follow up promptly after the show. Track your ROI by evaluating leads generated, sales closed, and brand awareness achieved.
Where can I find a list of upcoming accounting software trade shows?
Online directories, industry publications, and professional organizations often list upcoming trade shows. Also, check the websites of major accounting software vendors and industry influencers who often announce their participation in major events.
What educational opportunities should I look for at an accounting software trade show?
Look for shows that offer educational sessions, workshops, and keynote presentations by industry experts. These can offer insightful updates on emerging accounting trends and best practices.