8+ HOURS OF NETWORKING
Be introduced to the people
you want to connect with most - uniquely.
60+ EXPERT SPEAKERS
Absorb thought leadership from the top subject matter experts across sectors and strategies.
350+ ATTENDEES
Feel comfortable within the small scale, focused environment - a Kayo signature benefit.
about
In the competitive world of M&A, where the stakes are high and connections drive success, Kayo's M&A Summit offers more than just another conference — it’s a launchpad for meaningful deals and career-defining partnerships. Over two dynamic days in Boston, 350+ women leaders in mergers & acquisitions, private equity, and capital markets will gather to exchange strategies, uncover market insights for 2026, and gain the edge needed to thrive in a fast-paced industry.
eliminate barriers
From the curated M&A Marketplace to scheduled Meet the Speakers to our signature Wind-Down Walk through Boston Common, every program segment is crafted to foster organic introductions and deep, lasting relationships. You won't just gain contacts, but allies, mentors, and collaborators who can help you tackle the challenges of dealmaking with confidence and support.
LIBBY CANTRILL
Managing Director,
Pacific Investment Management Company (PIMCO)
SUSAN WEISS
Managing Director,
Blackstone
MAGGIE WILMOUTH
Director,
William Blair
NISHITA CUMMNINGS
Managing Partner & Co-Founder,
Composition Capital
agenda
Intentionally curated structured introductions, thought leadership discussions and organic networking over experiences. View full agenda here.
CONTENT
From keynotes to fireside chats to panels, thought leaders share their perspectives on the industry. No fluff, no press – just authentic conversations from top experts.
EXPERIENCES
Walking into a bustling conference overflowing with people can be intimidating. That’s why Kayo events are small-scale with focused environments, designed with experiences, such as the Wind-Down Walk, to facilitate connections.
NETWORKING
Meet the people you want to connect with most, organically. We make it easy to network with female business leaders and learn from them in a one-on-one setting.
featured networking sessions
Get the introductions you want to make most. View networking opportunities.
BORROWER/LENDER NETWORKING
Day 1 | October 14 | 1:00 - 2:15 PM
Offered for direct access to a curated group of motivated borrowers and private credit and commercial bank lenders. Rotations are pre-designed to help you forge connections that can fuel your next big deal.
Preregistration Required.
M&A MARKETPLACE
Day 1 | October 14 | 2:30 - 3:30 PM
Where top dealmakers, advisors, and investment bankers gather for assigned structured networking—rotations that introduce you to the right partners who can help you unlock new opportunities.
Preregistration Required.
attendees
Get the introductions to the people you want to connect with most. View the Past Attendee List here.
general partners
Private equity investors, deal originators, merchant banks, family offices, fee-earning LPs, portfolio company c-suite executives, and operating partners.
Past participating firms:
- Advent International
- Ares
- Bain Capital
- KKR
- TPG
investment banks
Investment bankers and equity and debt capital market professionals.
Past participating firms:
- Goldman Sachs
- Houlihan Lokey
- Lincoln International
- Morgan Stanley
- Stifel
lenders
All lenders, including private credit institutions and commercial banks.
Past participating firms:
- Bank of America
- Banc of California
- CoBank
- Midcap Financial
- Wells Fargo
corporate m&a
Executives of private and public companies, companies interested in M&A, private equity, capital markets and strategic decision-making, including Corporate Development and other C-suite leaders.
Past participating firms:
- Advocate Aurora Health
- Chevron
- National Grid Partners
- Shell Ventures
- World Kinect Sustainability Ventures
service providers
Service providers to investors and companies, including accountants, consultants, commercial brokers, executive search firms, insurance firms, attorneys, placement agents, and software providers.
Past participating firms:
- Atlantic Global Risk
- FTI Consulting
- Holland & Knight LLP
- Ropes & Gray LLP
- RSM
“The knowledge share and power networking were highlights to the conference!
I’m leaving with many more friends and connections than ever before.”
Lauren Williams, CHRO, Victor Capital Partners, 2024 Attendee