Data governance isn't just a buzzword anymore – it's a must-have for modern organizations. Looking ahead to 2025, we've handpicked the conferences and sessions where governance leaders share real solutions to today's challenges. Whether you're just starting your governance journey or scaling existing practices, these events bring together the experts and insights you need to build trust in your data.

TDWI Transform West 

Date: February 23-28, 2025 

Location: Las Vegas, Nevada

TDWI's flagship conference delivers intensive, vendor-neutral training across AI, analytics, and data management. With over 57 masterclasses, hands-on labs, and a dedicated leadership summit, this event stands out for its practical, interactive approach. What makes it unique is its "closed loop" learning model – featuring virtual office hours with instructors even after the conference ends to ensure you're successfully implementing new skills. Perfect for data professionals looking to transform both their technical capabilities and strategic thinking.

State of Data Governance Roundtable

Date: February 26, 2025 

Location: Virtual

In this forward-looking virtual roundtable hosted by Secoda, industry experts will explore how organizations are transforming data governance from a compliance necessity into an AI innovation accelerator. Join Google Cloud's Data & AI Governance Lead Tyler Fischella and other leaders as they share practical strategies for using governance as a competitive advantage, showcasing how effective governance can drive business value while maintaining trust and security in AI initiatives.

Gartner Data & Analytics Summit 

Date: March 11-13, 2025 

Location: Orlando, Florida

The Gartner Data & Analytics Summit is where data and analytics leaders gather to explore the latest trends, technologies, and strategies. With tracks covering data governance, analytics leadership, AI implementation, and modern data architecture, this summit provides insights from industry analysts and practical advice from practitioners.

Data Leaders Forum: The State of Data Governance 

Date: April 2, 2025 

Location: Virtual

This focused one-day event dives deep into enterprise data governance, exploring how theory meets practice in 2025. The event features five expert panels, including a Secoda product showcase, alongside roundtable discussions on governance trends and industry-specific breakout sessions. If you're involved in data governance or looking to strengthen your organization's data practices, this is a must-attend event to explore real-world applications and challenges across industries.

MDS Fest 3.0 

Date: May 2025 (exact data TBA)

Location: Virtual

Born from the community and now in its third year, MDS Fest continues its mission of amplifying voices in the data community. The conference maintains its commitment to being free and accessible to all, focusing on practical insights and first-time speakers.

Big Data London 

Date: September 24-25, 2025

Location: London, England

As the UK's leading data, analytics, and AI conference, Big Data London offers free attendance and brings together hundreds of partners and expert speakers. With tracks covering everything from the modern data stack to data governance and data mesh, this conference continues to be a key event in the European data calendar.

DGIQ (Data Governance & Information Quality Conference) 

Date: May 5-9, 2025 

Location: Anaheim, California

The definitive gathering for data governance professionals joins forces with Enterprise Data World (EDW) for an expanded five-day summit. This powerhouse combination brings together the brightest minds in data governance, quality, and management. Whether you're launching a governance program or scaling existing practices, expect practical workshops, real-world case studies, and strategies you can implement immediately.

Ready to level up your data governance game in 2025?

Conferences offer a unique blend of learning, networking, and inspiration that you simply can't get from online courses or webinars alone. They're your chance to connect with the brightest minds in data governance, discover emerging compliance and privacy trends before they hit mainstream, and bring fresh perspectives back to your team.

Here's your next step: Pick one conference from this list that best aligns with your governance goals and start building your case to attend. Focus on the unique value that particular conference brings – whether it's deep dives into regulatory frameworks, face time with governance leaders, or specific sessions that address your organization's compliance and data management challenges.

Remember, investing in your data governance knowledge isn't just about personal development – it's about bringing enhanced risk management and compliance expertise back to your organization and staying ahead in the rapidly evolving regulatory landscape.

Pro tip: DLF and MDS Fest are still free to attend and virtual, making it a no-brainer for teams looking to strengthen their governance practices!