Small and midsize CPA firms are under increasing pressure—from talent constraints and shrinking compliance margins to growing client demand for higher-value, strategic guidance. The firms that are scaling effectively are doing so by intentionally connecting three disciplines: AI-enabled operations, expanded and specialized CAS and advisory services, and a disciplined, client-centric service model.
In this keynote, Jim Bourke outlines how firm leaders can move from experimentation to execution. He will share how to identify and deploy safe, high-impact AI pilots that improve quality and throughput; how to strengthen and extend existing CAS practices by delivering new and expanded advisory services; and how to elevate client service in ways that deepen relationships and protect revenue.
Attendees will gain insight into how high-performing firms are using AI in day-to-day practice, why CAS continues to outpace overall firm growth when supported by clear strategy, niches, and dedicated teams, and how firms are successfully cross-selling advisory services and integrating multiple offerings to drive sustainable growth and stronger client outcomes.
Private equity continues to reshape the growth trajectory of leading accounting firms. In this panel, leaders from Accounting Today’s 2026 Fastest-Growing Firms share how PE has shaped their firm models, accelerated growth, and introduced new pressures and expectations. Panelists will discuss what PE has enabled, how it differentiates their firms, and what it really takes to manage rapid, PE-backed growth.
Firm leaders from Accounting Today’s 2026 Fastest-Growing Firms go beyond revenue metrics to share how they built growth that lasts. This keynote panel explores how firm leaders evolved their strategies, differentiated their practices, navigated staffing and operational challenges, and adapted as they scaled—while maintaining strong cultures, client relationships, and long-term sustainability.
What clients value and what accountants believe they value are often worlds apart. In this impactful Day Two keynote, Joe Woodard challenges accountants to rethink their approach to value and reposition themselves in the eyes of their clients.
Joe will share strategies to establish yourself as a trusted curator and interpreter of critical business information, a driver of financial clarity, and a protector of your clients’ businesses. By shifting how clients perceive your role—from a cost center to a strategic asset—you’ll address the systemic price-to-value issue that has long plagued the accounting and bookkeeping professions.
Join Joe for this transformative session and learn how to elevate your value and grow stronger client relationships.
What you’ll learn:
- Five ways to shift your clients’ thinking about your value
- A 3-tiered model for packaging and pricing bookkeeping and tax services
- The 4-step communication map for getting the clients to agree to your desired price
No one knows better how to grow an accounting firm than those who have done it – and this panel of the 2025 Fastest Growing Firms brings together some of the savviest: Firm leaders who have built thriving practices that are more than standing up to the biggest challenges in accounting. They’ll share their strategies for growth; for keeping clients, staff and partners happy; for managing technology; and much more.