***2026***
CLOC announced that its flagship event, the CLOC Global Institute (CGI), will take place May 11–14, 2026 at McCormick Convention Center in Chicago.
The move to Chicago reflects CLOC’s broader effort to make its flagship event more accessible to a wider range of professionals. The CLOC Global Institute has earned a reputation as a valuable forum for those working to improve the operations of legal departments. Its practical, peer-led programming supports professional development, facilitates the exchange of ideas, and strengthens connections across the legal ops community.
When asked about the decision to relocate the event, CLOC Executive Director Oyango Snell offered the following perspective:
“Las Vegas is a great home for the CLOC Global Institute, but we recognize that it’s not the right fit for everyone, especially when you consider tightening budgets and reductions in professional development activities. We’ve heard from companies that can’t approve travel to Las Vegas and from folks on the East Coast who find it a haul. So next year, we’re heading to Chicago, my hometown, for a change of pace and a chance to bring even more people into the mix.
For attendees, hotel rates are in line with what we’ve offered in Vegas once you factor in resort fees and food. The airport is a bit farther out and restaurants are a quick ride away, but the experience will be just as strong, dynamic, and inclusive with great substantive content, plenty to eat, and time to connect to establish, build, and nurture relationships.
I think our sponsors will embrace the change. Chicago can be costly but CLOC’s turnkey approach means we are covering the added costs that can drive up exhibiting elsewhere. We’re working through the logistics but the bottom line is that every city has its quirks. However, the value of participating in the CGI and connecting with our stakeholders is extremely high.
After Chicago, we’re back to Las Vegas and then off to Nashville in 2028. We’re continuing to explore new cities to keep CGI fresh and open to more people within our growing legal ops community.”
CGI 2026 in Chicago could draw participants from a broader range of industries and regions, bringing fresh perspectives and new energy to the conversation. Pass it on.
#LegalOps #CLOC #CGI2026
Published April 10, 2025.
