The Education Foundation of the Independent Bankers Association of Texas (IBAT) is gearing up for the fourth-annual IBAT EDGE, a program that offers two days of education, renowned industry keynote speakers and leadership development training focused on community banks in Texas. The goal is to Educate, Develop, Guide and Empower (EDGE) community bank employees. This year’s event is being held May 4–6 at the Waco Convention Center in downtown Waco.
Keynote Speaker Anne Grady
Anne Grady is a best-selling author, entrepreneur and leading expert on building resilient leaders, teams and organizations. For more than 20 years, she has helped some of the world’s top organizations, including Microsoft, Dell Technologies, Lockheed Martin, Johnson & Johnson, ADP and Google, develop the mindset and skills needed to thrive through change and challenge. A two-time TEDx speaker with a master’s degree in organizational communication, Grady is also a regular contributor to publications such as Harvard Business Review, Entrepreneur, Fast Company and Forbes. Drawing from both cutting-edge research and her own personal experiences overcoming adversity, Grady blends neuroscience, psychology and powerful storytelling with wit and authenticity, delivering practical strategies audiences can immediately apply to improve relationships, increase productivity and reduce stress.
Leadership Panel
This high-impact leadership panel brings together three exceptional bankers—Brian Bowers, Zach Gilbert and Sarah Long—alongside renowned economist Dr. William Chittenden for a dynamic conversation on what leadership truly demands in today’s rapidly evolving financial landscape. From navigating economic uncertainty and regulatory complexity to driving innovation and strengthening culture, this session will explore the mindset and competencies leaders must cultivate to thrive in times of change. Expect thoughtful dialogue, practical takeaways and a forward-looking perspective you can apply within your institution.
Breakout Sessions
IBAT EDGE 2026 attendees can move freely across six focused educational tracks, choosing the sessions that matter most to their role, priorities and challenges: compliance; credit, lending and risk management; operations; marketing; leadership and strategy; and human resources/wildcard. Each breakout goes beyond surface-level discussions to address the real challenges community banks face every day. From regulatory change and operational pressures to deposit strategy, loan growth and leadership development, EDGE focuses on what works, what’s changing and what your bank needs to know now.
Accommodations for the event will be somewhat unconventional for an IBAT conference. The organization is encouraging attendees to stay at a property and price point that makes them comfortable.
Registration for IBAT EDGE 2026 is $995 for IBAT members and $1,595 for non-members. Click here to learn more and register online for IBAT EDGE 2026.
