The 2026 Emerging Leaders & Markets (ELM) Conference took place on June 12, 2026, at Columbia University, bringing together developers, contractors, public officials, investors, and industry leaders for a full day of networking, education, and collaboration. The program featured keynote addresses, the inaugural Deal Tank live project showcase, a mayoral fireside chat, and discussions led by distinguished speakers from across the real estate, finance, and public sectors.

The conference also featured multiple panel discussions covering topics including technology, equitable development, local finance, regional growth, joint ventures, and strategic partnerships, highlighting opportunities shaping the future of New York City's built environment.