The 21st Annual Believers in Business Conference welcomed more than 300 participants from across the country, including students representing 20+ business schools, to gather and “Come and seek first the kingdom of God” alongside a generation of MBAs, founders, investors, and leaders eager to treasure Christ above all.

 

Conference Highlights

• 309 total participants, marking the second-highest attendance in conference history

• 50+ speakers and mentors generously invested their time and wisdom into the next generation of business leaders

• Meaningful networking and kingdom-centered connections formed across a wide range of industries

• Through the generosity of donors, the conference provided registration, travel, and housing scholarships for more than 80 students who otherwise would not have been able to attend

• The conference reflected a vibrant global community, with students representing every continent except Antarctica

 

This year’s theme, “Seek First,” was drawn from Matthew 6:33, which calls us to “seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.” Throughout the weekend, speakers encouraged participants to build lives and careers grounded in this kingdom-first vision.

 

David Miller, PhD, Director of the Princeton Faith & Work Initiative, urged students to develop their decision-making framework before a crisis arrives, shaping convictions that will guide them under pressure. Toni Townes-Whitley, Fortune 500 CEO and Board member, challenged attendees with the reality that growth sometimes requires us to outgrow our current circle. Jonathan Reckford, CEO of Habitat for Humanity International, reflected on leadership by emphasizing that service is a calling, not a strategy. Steven Preston CEO of Goodwill Industries highlighted that in leadership, the heart—not the brain—is often the stronger muscle. Ndidi Okonkwo Nwuneli, CEO/President of the ONE Campaign, and Mezuo Nwuneli, Managing Partner of Sahel Capital, shared about social innovation, impact investing, and building legacy through partnership, inviting students to imagine businesses that create lasting transformation.

 

Voices from Participants

 

• God gave me a ton of clarity on my business, and I landed a speaking event gig!

• It was so impactful from the worship, all the way to the speakers. I have spent time this week going over my notes and diving deep into bible study.

• Great conversations. Opportunities to support people in prayer. Inspiration from speakers.

• Beyond the stage, something else happened. Hallway conversations. Shared meals. Strangers holding space for each other like old friends. We made promises to stay connected and build together. Some people say an MBA is about the degree. For me, it’s becoming something else entirely. It’s the rooms that stretch you and the people who remind you you’re not building alone. Last weekend was an affirmation. I came here for a reason.

 

We celebrate the seeds planted and the work God is doing in the lives of all who attended. We are deeply grateful for the generous support and partnerships that make this conference possible and allow it to continue growing each year. We also want to extend a special thank you to this year’s Student Leadership Team for their outstanding dedication and leadership in organizing Believers in Business 2026, and to our wonderful sponsors and donors who helped make this conference happen.