Join the EAA Annual Congress Host Programme – Prague 2026
Following the successful launch of the EAA Annual Congress Host Programme at the 2025 congress in Rome, the EAA Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee (DEIC) is delighted to continue the initiative at the 2026 Annual Congress in Prague. Building on the positive feedback from participants in Rome, the programme aims to make the congress experience more welcoming, accessible, productive and engaging for first-time attendees.
What is the Host Programme?
Due to the size of the congress, it can sometimes be challenging for new members to connect with colleagues and navigate the programme. The Host Programme pairs first‑time attendees with experienced EAA members who help them navigate the congress, connect with colleagues to expand their network, and engage more fully with the academic accounting community.
The main idea is that EAA Hosts will initiate contact with Attendees by email before the congress and arrange to meet at the venue. A welcoming space with drinks and refreshments will be reserved on Wednesday 27 May from 12:00–13:00 for participants to meet before the Congress’ Opening Session. Hosts and Attendees are also encouraged to connect throughout the congress, including at parallel sessions, symposia, and social events. EAA DEIC members will be available to answer questions, at the EAA Host programme hangout corner where host/attendees can meet throughout the congress.
Using the EAA Annual Congress Programme, Hosts may also suggest sessions and activities that Attendees might find valuable. The goal is for Hosts to share their knowledge and experience so that Attendees can make the most of their first EAA Annual Congress. Hosts are also encouraged to introduce Attendees to other colleagues, helping early career researchers and those new to the EAA community build their own professional networks. Ideally, Hosts will attend their Attendees’ presentations and, after the congress, offer to stay in touch.
This year we are introducing a drinks event on the last day of the congress for everyone involved in the Host Programme. This will take place on Friday 29th May at 15:30–16:30, immediately after the DEIC Symposium 9, to thank Hosts and give participants another opportunity to connect.
Interested in being a Host?
If you have attended at least two EAA Annual Congresses and would like to support a new attendee, please complete the Host application form.
Are you a first-time Attendee at the 2026 EAA Annual Congress in Prague?
If you would appreciate guidance and conversation from an experienced EAA member, please complete the Attendee application form
Please submit your application no later than April 15th at 11:59 pm CET.
Please contact us if you have any questions about the EAA DEIC Host Programme
EVENT DETAILS
Welcome gathering
Date / time: Wednesday, 27 May 2026 (12:00 – 13:00)
Location: IB202 QM (Italská Building Quattro Modulare)
Farewell meeting
Date / time: Friday, 29 May 2026 (15:30 – 16:30)
Location: IB305 AK (Italská Building)
FAQs
How many Attendees will be assigned to each Host?
Each Host will be matched with 2-3 Attendees. The DEIC will match new members with volunteer Hosts on a first-come, first-served basis, so please register early.
How are Hosts matched with Attendees?
We aim to match Attendees with Hosts who have similar teaching or research areas. We will also consider arrival times, so please make sure to provide any relevant details to help with matching.
How will I receive contact information?
We will notify you once the matching process has been completed. The DEIC will email both Hosts and Attendees with names and contact information.
Who qualifies as an Attendee?
Anyone attending their first EAA Annual Congress.
Missed connections?
Even with the best intentions, plans can sometimes go awry. If you are having trouble connecting at the congress, please visit the EAA Host Programme hangout corner. There will be a QR code that you can scan and start exchanging messages with Host or Attendee.
What are the Hosts expected to do?
Hosts are encouraged to:
What are the Attendees expected to do?
Attendees are encouraged to:
