Deadline:
August 10, 2026
Program Starts: November 06, 2026
Program Ends: November 08, 2026
Location(s)
Online United States of America
Hilton Midtown, NYC; We will also be hosting a virtual International Conference, in which attendees will receive the opportunity to attend executive seminars and panels from wherever they are. The virtual conference will happen at the same time as the in-person one.
Overview
The International Conference is a conference that connects undergraduate students from around the world with top business executives. We connect the leaders of today with students like you — the leaders of tomorrow — to create a meaningful dialogue on the current business landscape.
This year’s theme is “The Human Algorithm.” The conference will be hosted at The Westin New York Grand Central in NYC from November 8th to 10th.
Details
For the past 50 years, Business Today has attracted top undergraduate students from across the world to be part of the International Conference. This unique opportunity exposes attendees to diverse viewpoints, not only from many industries and companies, but also from students of different countries, universities, and backgrounds. True to our mission, we connect influential business executives with top undergraduate students to develop the next generation of leaders. At Business Today’s International Conference, we aim to create a meaningful dialogue in which students and executives can connect and learn from each other so that together we can face the issues of tomorrow.
This year’s theme, “The Social Architecture,” explores how the invisible structures of relationships, rituals, and trust shape every organization. In a world increasingly organized by data, platforms, and automation, this theme asks how leaders can design environments that still put people—rather than processes—at the center. Across industries, we’ll examine how culture is built (or broken) through everyday interactions, from team norms and meeting rhythms to how we onboard, mentor, and make decisions together. Through keynotes, panels, and interactive sessions, we’ll spotlight the practices that create deeper connection in an age of constant connection: spaces for genuine conversation, communities of belonging, and networks that prioritize depth over breadth. Ultimately, we ask: how do we build organizations that are not just high-performing, but humane—places where structure supports real learning, shared purpose, and lasting impact?
Past keynotes have included Steve Forbes (CEO, Forbes Magazine), Muhtar Kent (Former CEO of Coca-Cola), Wendy Kopp (CEO and Co-Founder of Teach For All), Jane Fraser (CEO, Citigroup), Douglas Peterson (former President & CEO of S&P Global), Anthony Capuano (CEO of Marriott International), Scott Mills (President & CEO of BET+).
The application deadlines are below. Applicants are selected on a rolling basis, so applying as early as possible is recommended. International students are STRONGLY encouraged to apply in the 1st round and will have decreased chances of being considered in the regular round. **Follow @businesstoday1968 on Instagram for application updates!**
- Early Application: June 20th
- Regular Application: August 10th
ABOUT BUSINESS TODAY
Business Today is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization founded by Steve Forbes in 1968. For the past 50 years, our goal has been to bridge the gap between influential business leaders, from all industries, and top undergraduate students from across the world. BT creates a dynamic forum in which students from all backgrounds can be educated and inspired.
Opportunity is About
Eligibility
Candidates should be from:
Description of Ideal Candidate
Eligibility Notice: Applicants must be currently enrolled as undergraduate students at a college or university. Graduate students (e.g., MBA, MA, PhD) are not eligible. Please note: students currently enrolled at Princeton University are not eligible to apply.
Dates
Deadline: August 10, 2026
Program starts:
November 06, 2026
Program ends:
November 08, 2026
Program Starts: November 06, 2026
Program Ends: November 08, 2026
Cost/funding for participants
Do I have to pay to attend this conference?
No, this is all-expenses paid. We cover transportation to New York, hotel accommodations in New York, meals, and fun experiences. We do not cover Visa costs. There is a $75 security deposit to secure your spot in the conference.
In case of a virtual format, we will continue to provide a platform to connect all our attendees around the world to leading executives regardless of the student’s financial circumstances, such that the International Conference remains all-expenses paid.
Un-save Opportunity
Internships, scholarships, student conferences and competitions.
