Governmental Affairs Conference 2026
Governmental Affairs Conference 2026
Overview
Shape the future of credit union advocacy at the largest and most influential government relations conference in the credit union industry. Governmental Affairs Conference (GAC) brings thousands of credit union professionals, policymakers, and system leaders to Washington, D.C., for an experience that drives advocacy and reinforces our commitment to more than 144 million credit union members nationwide.
Following a year of significant wins, including the success of the Don’t Tax My Credit Union campaign, our industry is more energized than ever. Now is the time to build on that success, tell your stories, ignite collective action, and shape what comes next.
What you'll experience at GAC 2026
- Dynamic sessions featuring a powerful mix of federal policymakers, regulatory leaders, and industry experts who shape credit union priorities and drive real-world impact.
- Coordinated Capitol Hill meetings led by your state league, designed to amplify credit unions’ unified voice and advance our shared legislative agenda.
- The largest exhibit hall in the credit union industry, featuring innovative products, solutions, and strategies that empower your institution to grow and compete.
- Targeted networking opportunities that bring together influential credit union leaders, policy insiders, communications experts, and advocacy professionals for meaningful collaboration.
- Unified action that protects our industry, strengthens our communities, tells our story, and propels the credit union movement forward.
Who should attend
GAC is for leaders who are passionate about advocacy and making real change for the industry. No other event delivers the alignment, access, and action that GAC does. If you’re invested in the future of credit unions, your place is here.
- Credit union executives, CEOs, and board members
- Professionals in government relations and political affairs, including those engaged with a political action committee (PAC)
- Communication and marketing strategists, member engagement leaders
- League and system leaders
- First-time advocates and emerging voices
- Industry partners, fintechs, and service providers
- Anyone passionate about protecting, empowering, and advancing the credit union mission
Schedule
GAC takes place March 1–5, 2026, in Washington, D.C.
From opening day to your final Capitol Hill meeting, expect bold conversations that reflect the current landscape, spark action, and position credit unions to stay competitive and relevant into the future.
The schedule will feature:
- High-energy sessions featuring voices shaping financial services and public policy
- State league-coordinated Capitol Hill meetings that bring your story and impact directly to lawmakers
- Topic-driven breakouts and peer-to-peer engagement
- Networking that ignites ideas and prepares you to lead with purpose
Pricing & Registration
Step into the center of credit union advocacy
Join thousands of leaders as we unite in Washington, D.C., to shape the future of our industry. Across five unforgettable days, credit union professionals, policymakers, and thought leaders come together to drive progress, tell our stories, influence policy, and connect with purpose.
Your registration includes
- Entry to all keynote and general sessions
- Access to the exhibit hall and curated networking events
- Breakfast and lunch on select days
- Participation in your league’s scheduled Capitol Hill meetings (coordination required)
Payment details
Payment is due at registration. ACH, VISA, MasterCard, and American Express are accepted. Contact gacinfo@americascreditunions.org or call 800-356-9655 (option 4) for check or invoice payments.
Refund and substitution policy
Written cancellations received 30+ days before the event are subject to a 25% fee. No refunds within 30 days. Substitutions are accepted with advance notice.
Hotel & Travel
Plan your stay in Washington, D.C.
All official GAC hotels are conveniently located near the Walter E. Washington Convention Center. Book through our official housing partner to secure preferred rates.
Conference venue
Walter E. Washington Convention Center
801 Allen Y. Lew Place NW
Washington, DC 20001
The GAC hotel blocks are open. To book within your League's hotel block, contact your League.
2026 Governmental Affairs Conference Hotels
AC Hotel Washington DC Convention Center
601 K Street, NW
Washington, DC 20001
Room Rate: $333.00
Capital Hilton
1001 16th Street NW
Washington, DC 20036
Room Rate: $364.00
Conrad Washington DC
950 New York Avenue, NW
Washington, DC 20001
Room Rate: $434.00
Courtyard Washington Downtown Convention Center
901 L Street, NW
Washington, DC 20001
Room Rate: $333.00
Eaton DC
1201 K St. NW
Washington, DC 20005
Room Rate: $309.00
Embassy Suites Washington DC Convention Center
900 10th Street, NW
Washington, DC 20001
Room Rate: $365.00
Grand Hyatt Washington
1000 H Street, NW
Washington, DC 20001
Room Rate: $344.00
Hamilton Hotel Washington DC
1001 14th Street, NW
Washington, DC 20005
Room Rate: $345.00
The Henley Park Hotel
926 Massachusetts Avenue, NW
Washington, DC 20001
Room Rate: $320.00
Holiday Inn Express Washington DC Downtown
317 K Street, NW
Washington, DC 20001
Room Rate: $299.00
Homewood Suites by Hilton Washington DC Convention Center
465 New York Avenue, NW
Washington, DC 20001
Room Rate: $325.00
Hotel Zena
1155 14th St NW
Washington, DC 20005
Room Rate: $279.00
Hyatt House Washington DC/Downtown/Convention Center
899 O St NW
Washington, DC 20001
Room Rate: $279.00
Kimpton Hotel Monaco
700 F St NW
Washington, DC 20004
Room Rate: $340.00
Marriott Marquis Washington DC
901 Massachusetts Avenue, NW
Washington, DC 20001
Room Rate: $367.00
Marriott at Metro Center
775 12th Street, NW
Washington, DC 20005
Room Rate: $358.00
Motto by Hilton Washington DC
627 H Street, NW
Washington, DC 20001
Room Rate: $315.00
Moxy Washington DC Downtown
1011 K Street, NW
Washington, DC 20001
Room Rate: $333.00
Residence Inn Washington Downtown Convention Center
901 L Street, NW
Washington, DC 20001
Room Rate: $340.00
Riggs Washington DC
900 F St NW
Washington, DC 20004
Room Rate: $366.00
Westin Washington DC Downtown
999 9th Street, NW
Washington, DC 20001
Room Rate: $355.00
The Westin City Center
1400 M St NW
Washington DC 20005
Room Rate: $358.00
Hotel reservation requests will be accepted until February 12, 2026, subject to availability. Rates are quoted for the room, and all reservations are on a first-come, first-served basis. The GAC rates are available only when you book directly with onPeak, the GAC Official Housing provider. All rooms are subject to applicable taxes.
Reservations canceled on or before Friday, December 19, 2025, will not be charged a cancellation fee. Reservations canceled on or after Saturday, December 20, 2025, will be subject to a one-night room and tax cancellation fee per room.
All reservations, changes, and cancellations must be made with the Housing Bureau by Friday, February 13, 2026, at 4:30 p.m. (EST).
Between February 6-13, 2026, the Housing Bureau will transfer reservation information to participating hotels. During this time, no changes can be made.
Beginning Monday, February 16, 2026, all changes and cancellations must be made directly with the hotel, and all cancellations are non-refundable.
*State league sub blocks are at these hotels and may not be available for general housing. If you are a member of your state league, contact the league to find the hotel the league has blocked. You will receive instructions from your state league on how to reserve a room in the state league block. Guest rooms subject to availability.
Hotel rates listed are subject to 15.95% sales tax (tax is subject to change)
If the date you are looking to book is not available at the time of making a reservation, complete the reservation for the nights that are available. Once you receive your email acknowledgement from onPeak, click on the link in the Wait List section. At that time, you can wait list those additional night/s. You can also call (855) 906-2270 to speak with an onPeak team member to wait list your night/s. There is not a wait list for specific hotels. If the hotel you prefer is not available, we suggest that you secure a room at one of the available hotels. You are welcome to check back with onPeak on hotel availability.
GAC’s official housing is handled exclusively by onPeak. Please be aware that there are companies out there that claim to provide housing services for the GAC that are not affiliated with America’s Credit Unions. In the future you may receive a fax, email or phone call that offers you cut-rate housing. The author’s apparent intent is to convince you that the offer is made on behalf of GAC. The offer is not made on GAC’s behalf.
For federal credit unions to qualify for tax exemption from state and local taxes assessed to room charges, final payment must be made with a federal credit union-issued check, share draft or credit card. If paying with a share draft, contact the hotel to obtain the requirements. Payments made by personal check, personal share draft or personal credit card will not qualify for the exemption. The NCUA Tax Exemption Letter must be presented upon hotel check-in by the attendee.
For more information, call 800-356-9655 and select option 4, or e-mail gacinfo@americascreditunions.org.
BOOK YOUR FLIGHT
Discounted airfare through our airline partners:
Delta Airlines
- Book online here
- Call to book: (800) 328-1111 (Mon. through Fri. from 8:00 a.m. – 6:30 p.m. ET) and use code NY3XT
United Airlines
- Book online here
- Call to book: (800) 426-1122 (Mon. through Fri. from 8:00 a.m. – 6:30 p.m. ET) and use code ZR7G651311
Alaska Airlines
To use your Discount Code, go online to alaskaair.com and input the Discount Code ECMO611 when searching for flights. The discount will be applied to any flights meeting the contract parameters. By clicking the “?” next to the discount code box after entering the code, you may view a detailed description of the rules.
Attendee Info
Code of Conduct
We want everyone's event experience to be welcoming, respectful, and safe.
Cancellations
All cancellations must be received in writing. Please explain the cancellation briefly and submit it via email to hello@americascreditunions.org. Cancellations received more than 30 days before the event are subject to a 25% administrative fee on the order total. No refunds will be granted for cancellations received on or after 30 days before the event. Substitutions are accepted before the start of the program. Additional costs may apply. Please provide the event name, current participant name, and new participant name to hello@americascreditunions.org.
Tours
Optional events for attendees and guests
Saturday, February 28, 2026 | 6:00 – 9:00 pm
Price: $431 per adult
Step into Georgetown’s hidden gem, The Alex Craft Cocktail Cellar; an intimate speakeasy tucked beneath The Graham Hotel. Known for its sultry ambiance, inventive cocktails, and vintage charm, this space creates the perfect backdrop for an evening of connection and indulgence. Savor an exclusive experience complete with expertly crafted cocktails, a curated culinary selection, and the soulful soundtrack of a live jazz duo performing throughout the evening.
What is included:
- Private dinner at The Alex Craft Cocktail Cellar with live jazz performance
- Roundtrip Transportation from the Marriott Marquis
Special Considerations
- 21+ Adults only, please.
- Tickets for this event are non-refundable.
- Dressy casual attire is suggested (khakis or nice jeans, blouses, button-ups, dresses). Based on anticipated weather patterns, a jacket or light coat is also suggested for comfort.
Note
The bus will depart from the Marriott Marquis at 6:00 pm. Please gather 15 minutes before departure. The tour will only depart and return to the Marriott Marquis Washington, DC. There will be no additional drop-off/pick-up stops for participants.
The Marriott Marquis Washington DC 901 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Washington, District of Columbia, USA, 20001
Sunday, March 1, 2026 | 10:00 am-1:00 pm
Price: $335 per adult
Begin your day in style with an elegant private brunch in the Glover Park Room at The Pembroke, one of Washington, D.C’s most celebrated dining destinations. Savor a curated brunch menu featuring seasonal flavors, artful presentation, and the perfect balance of sweet and savory dishes. Following brunch, the indulgence continues at The Chocolate House, a Dupont Circle gem celebrated for its exceptional collection of artisan confections from around the world. In this private tasting experience, two expert guides will lead guests through an exploration of eight carefully selected chocolate samples – each with its own story, origin, and flavor profile.
What is included:
- Private brunch at Pembroke
- Guided chocolate tasting experience at The Chocolate House
- Roundtrip Transportation
Special Considerations
- Casual wear suggested with comfortable walking shoes. Based on anticipated weather patterns, a jacket or light coat is also suggested for comfort.
- Chocolate tasting may not be able to accommodate all dietary restrictions
- Adults only, please.
- Tickets to this event are non-refundable.
Note
The tour departs from the Convention Center South Lobby of the L Street Entrance at 10:00 am. Meet 15 minutes prior to departure. The tour will only depart and return to the Convention Center. There will be no additional drop-off/pick-up stops for participants.
Monday, March 2, 2025 | 10:45 am – 2:00 pm
Price: $280 per adult
Experience a private guided tour of the National Archives in Washington, D.C., where you’ll explore foundational documents like the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, and the Bill of Rights. Your guide will provide detailed historical context and insights into the preservation and significance of these records. The tour offers a closer look at exhibits and archival treasures not typically accessible to the general public. Following the tour, enjoy lunch at CIRCA at Foggy Bottom, a vibrant neighborhood bistro known for its contemporary American cuisine and relaxed atmosphere.
What is included
- Private guided tour of the National Archives Museum
- Lunch at CIRCA
- Roundtrip Transportation
Special Considerations
- Casual wear suggested with comfortable walking shoes. Based on anticipated weather patterns, a jacket or light coat is also suggested for comfort.
- Adults only, please.
- Tickets to this event are non-refundable.
Note
The tour departs from the Convention Center South Lobby of the L Street Entrance at 10:45 am. Meet 15 minutes prior to departure. The tour will only depart and return to the convention center. There will be no additional drop-off/pick-up stops for participants.
Tuesday, March 3, 2026 | 10:45 am – 1:45 pm
Price: $300 per adult
Discover the power of women’s voices in art at the National Museum of Women in the Arts – the world’s only major museum dedicated solely to women artists. This private, docent-led tour offers a curated look at works from classical to contemporary, spotlighting the stories and impact of artists who have shaped and redefined art history.
Following the tour, enjoy lunch at women-owned Centrolina, an acclaimed Italian restaurant led by Chef Amy Brandwein – one of D.C.’s top female chefs.
What is included
- Private guided tour of National Museum of Women in the Arts
- Lunch at Centrolina
- Roundtrip Transportation
Special considerations
- Casual wear suggested with comfortable walking shoes. Based on anticipated weather patterns, a jacket or light coat is also suggested for comfort.
- Adults only, please
- Tickets to this event are non-refundable.
Note
The tour departs from the Convention Center South Lobby of the L Street Entrance at 10:45 am. Meet 15 minutes prior to departure. The tour will only depart and return to the convention center. There will be no additional drop-off/pick-up stops for participants.
Online Experience
Virtual Governmental Affairs Conference 2026
Experience the nation’s premier credit union advocacy event online. Virtual GAC 2026 gives you access to keynote sessions with national leaders and select breakout discussions on advocacy and economic policy.
Whether attending in Washington or exclusively online, Virtual GAC 2026 keeps you connected to the conversations shaping credit union priorities.
More details are coming soon.
Press Credentials
Media inquiries and credential requests are welcome. Submit in advance for review.
Past GAC events have demonstrated the strength of credit union advocacy and the continued growth of our movement. GAC is where credit union advocates from across the USA come together to influence policy, strengthen connections, and move the industry forward.
If you have any questions, please reach out to press@americascreditunions.org.