Professionals in the payments and FinTech sectors will gather in New York City on May 5 and 6, 2024, for the inaugural CHNGNetwork. This innovative event, created by Karen Webster, CEO of PYMNTS, and Emmy Award-winning producer Vinnie Potestivo, aims to redefine industry engagement by fostering meaningful discussions rather than marketing pitches.
Unlike traditional conferences, CHNGNetwork is designed as a two-day series of conversations focused on driving real change. Webster emphasized the importance of creating a space for leaders who are committed to understanding and shaping the future of the digital economy. “We’re bringing together a highly curated group of executives, change makers, builders, and innovators,” she stated in a recent interview.
Why CHNGNetwork Matters Now
The timing of CHNGNetwork is particularly significant. According to Webster, the convergence of artificial intelligence, data, and new regulations is reshaping economic landscapes. “We’re at a different inflection point,” she said, reflecting on how recent advancements have transformed traditional business models.
The event aims to create a forum where participants can share strategies and insights on how to leverage these changes effectively. The previous iteration of in-person events by PYMNTS, such as the Innovation Project, laid the groundwork for this new approach. After five years of successful gatherings, the format was paused to reassess its relevance, particularly during the digital shift caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
What Makes CHNGNetwork Unique
Webster pointed out several features that distinguish CHNGNetwork from typical conferences. Firstly, it emphasizes an immersive experience rather than traditional panels. The event will showcase seven core themes or “planks” that will facilitate cross-disciplinary discussions, drawing on diverse perspectives from both within and outside the industry.
Another unique aspect is the commitment to confidentiality during discussions, allowing participants to engage candidly about the challenges they face in their organizations. This off-the-record format fosters genuine interactions that can lead to actionable insights. The event will also include extensive digital elements and a documentary that captures the essence of the discussions, ensuring that the ideas shared can resonate beyond the event itself.
Webster defines attendees as “change makers,” individuals dedicated to transforming the current landscape. “Change makers are willing to invest the energy, the resources, and the time required to make outcomes real,” she explained. This focus on actionable change is a core tenet of the CHNGNetwork mission.
As Webster stated, “We’re focusing on the concrete decisions, partnerships, architectures, and execution that actually move the needle.” Participants can expect to leave with a clearer understanding of what it takes to implement change in their own organizations.
In essence, CHNGNetwork is positioned as a pivotal gathering for those who wish to be at the forefront of innovation in the payments and digital economy. With a strict attendance cap of 550 participants, the organizers aim to foster an environment conducive to meaningful networking and collaboration.
Webster concluded by inviting industry leaders to participate: “If you want to be part of change, we believe you need to be in that room.” For those interested in attending, sponsorship opportunities are available, and additional information about the event can be requested through PYMNTS.
As the CHNGNetwork prepares to make its debut, it promises to be a transformative experience for all involved, setting the stage for future conversations that could define the next chapter of the digital economy.