2026 - 2027 Raleigh Durham Events

2026

SEPTEMBER 10 - THE ESOP OPPORTUNITY (sponsored by SES ESOP Strategies)

Moderator
Ethan Stambler, Sr VP, SES ESOP Strategies

Panelists
Rachel Tzortzis, CFO, S&ME
Walt Mayo, Sr, Operating Partner, Apis & Heritage Capital Partners

Historically seen as a niche transaction structure, ESOPs (formally, “Employee Stock Ownership Plans”) are being utilized to achieve an expanding set of opportunities for diverse participants across the lower-middle market.

Moderated by Ethan Stambler of SES ESOP Strategies, the discussion will begin with a concise ESOP primer and highlights of why ESOP activity is expanding across the Lower-Middle Market. The conversation will then turn to first-hand perspective from leaders in the evolving ESOP space.

Whether you think you know about ESOPs…or have little understanding, this session will provide valuable insight into the expanding opportunities available through this unique structure.

OCTOBER 22 - PRIVATE CREDIT PANEL: CUTTING THROUGH THE HEADLINES

Moderator
TBA

Panelists
TBA

Private credit is in the headlines daily—but how should allocators parse the news flow when determining the appropriate role for private credit in their portfolios?

Join us for a candid discussion featuring investors with decades of experience across cycles. This panel will move beyond soundbites to explore the real risks, opportunities, and structural dynamics shaping today’s private credit markets. This timely program offers institutional allocators and investment professionals the opportunity to gain actionable insights directly from experienced market participants.

NOVEMBER 12 - COMING CHANGES IN NIL & COLLEGE SPORTS

Speaker
Bubba Cunningham, Athletic Director, University of North Carolina

DECEMBER 8 - ANNUAL MEMBER/GUEST HOLIDAY PARTY (Capital Grille - Raleigh)

It is a Raleigh ACG Tradition! The Annual Holiday Member/Guest Networking Party is always a huge hit and THE place to make new connections as 2026 pulls to a close.

2027

JANUARY 28 – ANNUAL CEO/CFO OUTLOOK PANEL

Join us as a group of area CEOs and CFOs, from varying industries and company sizes, make their predictions for what lies ahead for business in 2026.

Moderator
TBD

Panelists
Stephen Perry, Founder & Exec Chairman, Kymanox
Joey Pointer, President & CEO, Fleet Feet

FEBRUARY 25 – TBA

MARCH 11 – DEAL STORY (sponsored by Lamkin Road)

APRIL 20 & 21 – ANNUAL CAPITAL CONFERENCE AND DEALSOURCE (The Westin, Brier Creek)

It is all about who you meet.
ACG Raleigh Durham provides the perfect environment to make new connections and catch up with established contacts at our annual M&A Conference. From private DealSource meetings and pre-set attendee meetings to chance meetings made at networking sessions, connections and deals are here waiting to be made.

MAY 13 - SPEED NETWORKING

JUNE - SUMMER SOCIAL

Join us for a relaxed networking event to connect with board members and other attendees, exchange ideas, and build meaningful professional relationships in a casual, welcoming setting.

JULY - ANNUAL MEET IN THE MIDDLE AT RED OAK BREWERY

Join us for the Annual Meet in the Middle at Red Oak Brewery, where professionals from across Raleigh Durham and Piedmont Triad come together to connect, collaborate, and grow their networks in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. Enjoy great conversations, new business opportunities, and local craft brews.

*Dates, times, and content are subject to change.

REGISTER FOR EVENTS AT

WWW.ACG.ORG/RALEIGHDURHAM

Refund Policy

For Monthly programs, Women's Forum, Roundtables, and Nextgen programs, refunds can be obtained up to 10 business days prior to the event. Substitutions are always allowed. The refund policy for premier events will be stated on the event webpage.

false