Thinking About Attending SMBash 2026?
Whether you’re actively searching for a business, already operating one, or exploring what life beyond a traditional career might look like, SMBash2026 is designed for people who want real conversations, real insights, and real progress.
This isn’t a conference built on buzzwords or theoretical frameworks. SMBash is where operators, searchers, investors, and advisors come together to talk honestly about what it actually takes to buy, run, and grow a small business.
If you’re considering attending—or you’ve already grabbed your ticket—this guide will walk you through what to expect, how to prepare, and how to get the most value from your time in Dallas.
📍 When and Where Is SMBash 2026?
Dates: April 22–24, 2026
Location: The Rayleigh Underground, Dallas, Texas
SMBash 2026 kicks off on Wednesday evening, April 22, with a welcome happy hour, opening keynote, and dinner—designed to ease you into the experience and start building connections immediately.
The conference continues with two full days of content on Thursday and Friday, wrapping up by 4:00 PM on Friday, April 24, making travel logistics easy for attendees flying in and out.
The Rayleigh Underground provides an intimate, focused setting that encourages real conversation—not ballroom-style anonymity.
What’s on the Agenda?
SMBash is intentionally built around two core tracks:
🔹 The Searcher Track
For those actively looking to acquire a business—or preparing to do so—this track dives into:
Deal sourcing strategies that actually work
Evaluating opportunities and avoiding common traps
Understanding financing, SBA loans, and investor alignment
Navigating LOIs, diligence, and closing with confidence
🔹 The Operator Track
For current owners and operators, this track focuses on:
Leading teams post-acquisition
Managing cash flow and profitability
Building systems and processes that scale
Navigating the emotional side of ownership
Across both tracks, you’ll find:
Tactical panels led by real operators
Keynotes from experienced founders and investors
Small-group sessions for deeper discussion
Curated networking moments designed to spark meaningful conversations
This is not a pitch-fest. There are no flashy sales decks or surface-level success stories. SMBash is built around real talk, real lessons, and real people.
Where Should You Stay?
We’ve secured hotel blocks at two convenient locations:
Texican Court – Valencia Hotel Collection
This is where the SMBash hosts will be staying and where much of the informal networking happens.Marriott Dallas Las Colinas
Another nearby option with easy access to the venue.
Both of these hotels are walkable to the Rayleigh Underground. Rooms tend to fill quickly, especially as the event approaches, so we recommend securing your ticket early to receive hotel booking details and access to our room blocks.
What to Pack for SMBash
This isn’t a suit-and-tie conference—but it is a serious one.
Here’s what we recommend bringing:
Business casual attire (comfort matters—especially shoes)
Notebook or laptop for notes and reflections
Business cards (yes, people still exchange them)
Curiosity and humility — the most valuable tools you’ll bring
A willingness to ask questions and share your own experiences
You’ll get more out of SMBash if you show up ready to engage.
How to Get the Most Out of SMBash
Attending is just the beginning. Here’s how to maximize your experience:
1. Arrive Early
The Wednesday evening welcome sets the tone. It’s one of the easiest ways to start conversations without pressure.
2. Come With Questions
Whether you’re wondering about deal structure, leadership challenges, or post-close realities—bring your real questions. The room is built for it.
3. Engage Beyond Your Comfort Zone
Some of the most valuable conversations happen in hallways, at meals, or during casual breaks. Say hello. Sit with someone new.
4. Take Notes—and Then Take Action
The insights you gain are only valuable if you use them. Identify 2–3 takeaways you’ll apply immediately when you return home.
5. Follow Up
After the event, follow up with the people you met. Send a note. Book a call. Stay connected. SMBash is a community, not a one-off event.
Why SMBash Is Different
SMBash isn’t trying to be everything to everyone. It’s intentionally focused on searchers and operators who want to do this work well.
People come to SMBash because:
They want honest conversations, not polished pitches
They value experience over theory
They’re serious about building something meaningful
You’ll find people who are candid about their wins, their mistakes, and the lessons that came with both.
Ready to Join Us?
SMBash 2026 is more than a conference—it’s a catalyst. It’s where clarity replaces confusion, and where relationships form that last far beyond the event itself.
If you’re serious about entrepreneurship through acquisition or becominga better operator, this is where you belong.
🎟️ Grab your ticket early and join us in Dallas, April 22–24, 2026.
Let’s make 2026 the year everything clicks.
