CDIA Connect 2026 brought together leaders across the consumer data ecosystem for several days of meaningful discussion, collaboration, and connection in Washington, DC. From conversations on AI and innovation to regulatory priorities, fraud prevention, litigation trends, and financial inclusion, this year’s conference reflected both the complexity of today’s landscape and the industry’s shared commitment to strengthening the consumer reporting system for the future.

As Dan Smith, CEO of Consumer Data Industry Association, shared during the conference:

“We are there in life’s most important financial moments, helping open doors through accurate, objective data. That’s the foundation of a system that expands access, builds trust, and powers opportunity for millions of consumers.”

Dan’s remarks served as a reminder of why we as an ecosystem must continue coming together to defend and strengthen the value of consumer data, support responsible innovation, and preserve a system that helps create financial opportunity for millions of consumers.

CDIA Connect 2026 officially kicked off with remarks from Heather Russell, Board Chair of CDIA, who reminded attendees of the broader impact of the industry’s work:

“When consumers have access to opportunities, communities thrive, the economy thrives, and the country thrives.”

She emphasized the collective responsibility “to make this system better for consumers and better for the country,” setting the tone for a conference centered on thoughtful dialogue, innovation, and collaboration.

One of the defining moments of this year’s event was the continued growth of the Women in Consumer Data Forum, which welcomed more than double last year’s attendance. The forum created a dedicated space for women across the industry to connect, share experiences, and grow as leaders.

Attendees heard from keynote speaker Shelley Leonard, President at Xactus, who delivered an inspiring message on authentic leadership, collaboration, and finding your voice at every stage of your career. Sessions throughout the day explored topics including communication strategies, leadership development, and the role women are playing in driving innovation across the consumer data industry.

The forum also included a meaningful mentorship initiative through Girls on the Run DC, where attendees wrote handwritten notes of encouragement and advice for the next generation of young leaders, a small but impactful reminder of the importance of paying it forward.

Throughout the week, conference sessions tackled many of the most pressing issues facing the industry today, including:

  • FCRA liability reform
  • AI-driven dispute management
  • Litigation and enforcement trends
  • Data privacy and compliance
  • Medical debt policy
  • Fraud prevention initiatives
  • Federal pre-emption
  • Section 1033 rulemaking
  • The future of tri-merge and consumer reporting innovation

A key highlight of the conference was a fireside chat between Dan Smith and Geof Gradler, Deputy Director of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, which explored the evolving regulatory landscape, CFPB’s current priorities, changes in supervision and examination practices.

Attendees also heard from keynote speaker Liz Pagel, SVP, Global Head of Alternative Data Solutions at TransUnion, who shared insights into the future of consumer reporting and the growing role of alternative and aggregated data. Her discussion examined how cash-flow insights, permission-based data models, rental reporting, and AI are reshaping the ecosystem while raising important conversations around trust, risk, and consumer protection.

Beyond the sessions themselves, one of the most valuable aspects of CDIA Connect 2026 was the networking and relationship-building that took place throughout the event. Whether during networking lunches, hallway conversations, receptions, or panel discussions, attendees had countless opportunities to exchange ideas, ask questions, collaborate, and build new connections across the industry.

The conference welcomed more than 250 attendees overall, reflecting the continued momentum and engagement surrounding the important work being done throughout the consumer data ecosystem.

CDIA extends its sincere thanks to all speakers, moderators, sponsors, members, event volunteers, attendees, and behind-the-scenes teams who helped make this year’s conference such a success.

As the conference concluded, one message remained clear: the conversations started at CDIA Connect 2026 will continue long after the event itself. The industry’s commitment to innovation, consumer protection, and collaboration remains stronger than ever.

CDIA looks forward to continuing these important discussions at the Consumer Reporting Roundtable this fall #ReturnOfTheNerds. #ValueofConsumerData #Future of Consumer Reporting