The CTO Craft Con Experience
We’re not here to overwhelm you with endless tracks or pack you into an expo hall with thousands of strangers.
CTO Craft Con is designed to be focused, human, and genuinely useful.
You’ll hear from experienced tech leaders on stage – and just as importantly, you’ll have the space to talk, reflect and ask your own questions. This isn’t about passive listening all day. It’s about making sense of the challenges you’re facing with your peers.
Whether you’re here for deep thinking, tactical tips, or a chance to recharge with others who understand the pressure of your role, CTO Craft Con is designed to meet you where you are.
Beyond the Stage
-
Coffee Corners
Pull up a chair during the breaks and join themed chats on topics like Tech & Parenthood, Scaling Teams or Hiring Headaches -
Circles Breakfast
Hear from Circles members about what to expect and what their Circle has meant for their development at this exclusive taster session -
Pre-Event Mixer
We understand that walking into a conference can be daunting, so our pre-event mixer is designed to help you make connections ahead of the event. Don't miss this chance to build your network before the conference even begins! -
End of Day 2 - Debrief Drinks
Our conference closes as it began – with the community. Join us for informal networking drinks at the end of day two, where speakers, sponsors and peers come together to share final reflections, swap stories, and make connections that last long after the conference doors close.
The After Party at Lane7
The conversations don’t stop when the conference ends. Join us at the After Party to keep the energy flowing with drinks, nibbles, and plenty of networking.
Hosted at Lane7, you’ll dive into a vibrant mix of bowling, arcade games, and social spaces – all designed to spark fun and friendly competition. It’s the ideal way to unwind, connect with fellow tech leaders, and celebrate two inspiring days of ideas and insights.
Diverse Formats for 2026
In 2026, we’re bringing back beloved formats like keynotes, panels, and lightning talks, and we’re excited to build on the success of the CTO Craft Roundtables.
These interactive group sessions put you in the mix, offering a deeper, hands-on experience that engages every participant.
Roundtables are crafted to be participatory and stimulating, fostering an environment where ideas flow freely, connections are forged, and meaningful discussions thrive.
Smarter Networking Tools
We know walking into a room full of strangers can be daunting – especially if you’re flying solo. That’s why we’re building in little ways to make connecting easier (and less awkward).
Traffic Light Stickers
Not in the mood to be pitched? Keen to chat? You’re in control. Our optional traffic light stickers let you signal your openness to sponsor conversations, so you can focus on the connections that matter most.
“Ask Me About…” Tags
We’ll also have optional badge tags with themes like AI, Hiring, Imposter Syndrome, or Career Change. It’s a subtle way to share your interests and open the door to conversations with like-minded folks.
Conversation Starter Stickers
Think of these as little icebreakers you wear. Pop a sticker on your badge to share a fun fact, a challenge you’re working through, or a topic you’d love to chat about — like:
“Ask me about scaling a team”
“Looking for a co-founder”
“Remote team wrangler”
These help spark spontaneous conversations and make networking feel a lot more natural.
And if you’re ever unsure or just want someone to chat to – come find us.
The CTO Craft team will be there throughout the event to help with introductions, point you toward people with shared interests, or simply say hello. We’re here to make sure no one’s left standing awkwardly by the coffee.
Register Now to Build Connections That Last
Secure your place alongside peers shaping the future of tech in finance. We’ll share real stories, solve real challenges, and send you back with ideas ready to put into practice.