The NCEO 2026 Annual Conference in Milwaukee, Wisconsin brought together a powerful community of employee ownership advocates, business leaders, and industry experts and it did not disappoint.

From the moment the conference kicked off, there was a clear theme: employee ownership is not just growing, it’s evolving.

A Standout Keynote: Adam Grant

One of the highlights of this year’s conference was the keynote from organizational psychologist and bestselling author Adam Grant.

Grant’s message resonated deeply with the ESOP community. He explored how great organizations build cultures that encourage curiosity, challenge assumptions, and empower individuals to think differently. His insights on rethinking leadership, fostering psychological safety, and creating environments where employees feel both valued and accountable aligned perfectly with the principles of employee ownership.

A few key ideas that stood out:

• The importance of encouraging employees to question and contribute, not just execute
• Building cultures where feedback flows in all directions
• Redefining success beyond short-term results to long-term impact

For ESOP companies, these ideas reinforced a simple truth: ownership thrives in environments where people feel heard, trusted, and inspired to contribute.

Key Takeaways from the Sessions

1. Culture Leads the Way

Companies that invest in employee engagement, communication, and ownership education continue to outperform. Ownership culture isn’t automatic, it’s intentional.

2. Communication Drives Value

Transparent, consistent communication about what employee ownership means is critical. The most successful ESOPs are those where employees truly understand how their work impacts company value.

3. Leadership Development Matters More Than Ever

Many sessions emphasized preparing the next generation of leaders within ESOPs. Succession planning is no longer optional; it’s a strategic priority.

4. Innovation Within ESOP Structures

From new governance models to creative incentive programs, companies are finding fresh ways to keep employee ownership relevant and engaging.

Looking Ahead

The ideas, conversations, and connections from NCEO 2026, especially the challenge from Adam Grant to rethink how we lead and engage, will continue to shape how organizations grow, lead, and empower their employees in the years ahead.

We’re already looking forward to what’s next and more importantly, implementing the ideas and insights we’re bringing back with us.  Now it’s time to get to work.