2026 Conference

Save the Date!

Disaster Recovery, Rebuilding, and Resilience Conference
Presented by the Southern Municipal Finance Society

Asheville, NC | September 23–25, 2026

We’re bringing together state and local governments, industry experts, finance professionals, and community partners to explore how municipalities can rebuild stronger, smarter, and more equitably in advance of and after natural disasters.

Wednesday, September 23, 2026 - Community Service Event and Welcome Reception

Thursday, September 24, 2026 - Panels to include hardening infrastructure, changes to FEMA, and climate and insurance risk.  Keynotes (invited) include the Mayor of Asheville and Former Administrator of FEMA

Thursday evening - Local Bus Tour and "Pick Your Adventure" Dine Around

 - Hear the analysts' perspective of disaster risk analysis and a Fireside Chat with journalists who covered Hurricane Helene, during the storm and the aftermath.

Please mark your calendar—more information is on the way.

 Asheville offers the ideal setting for the conference—an innovative mountain city with a history of rebuilding and a commitment to sustainable growth. Surrounded by the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville blends natural infrastructure with a vibrant arts culture, nationally recognized restaurants and bars, and abundant outdoor experiences. It’s a place where attendees can explore trails and rivers, discover local galleries and makers, enjoy award‑winning breweries and dining, and bring the family to a destination that’s as welcoming as it is inspiring. Special hotel rates have been extended as a courtesy for the weekends before and after the conference.