Payments 2020 Conference Cancelled Due to COVID-19

March 13, 2020

As you know, we have been carefully monitoring novel coronavirus (COVID-19) developments both domestically and globally over the past few weeks.

It is with deep regret that I announce that we are canceling the Smarter Faster Payments 2020 Conference at the Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center due to the health crisis caused by the emergence and spread of COVID-19. We are deeply disappointed that we will not be able to deliver the unparalleled education, incomparable networking opportunities, and the latest payments solutions through this year’s conference.

After discussions with our leadership and key conference stakeholders, and given the swift spread of COVID-19, we feel that we have no other choice than to cancel the event. Many of you have travel restrictions and are prevented from attending. Beyond that, we believe it is our responsibility to safeguard the health of all Payments attendees, exhibitors, sponsors, speakers and staff that contribute to this important event. This is an unprecedented decision and was made with much deliberation.

We would like to thank everyone that has participated in creating this event. Although it will not be held as planned, it in no way diminishes your contribution and we our thank you for all your help in its creation. Thank you, too, to all of you who provided us input and reasoned opinions that helped us make this decision. Our member community has risen to the public health challenge that we face, and we stand strong as an organization to further serve and educate the payments community.

We are working to develop a free virtual event for all registered to access select Payments 2020 educational content and connect with the exceptional exhibitors and sponsors. This virtual venue will also enable those seeking to earn Continuing Educational Credits (CECs) for the Accredited ACH Professional (AAP) and Accredited Payments Risk Professional (APRP) to do so. Please keep an eye out in the coming weeks for more information.

I want to stress that despite our disappointment at having to cancel this year’s event, we are more excited than ever about the future of the Smarter Faster Payments Conference and our relationship with you. We look forward to welcoming you to Smarter Faster Payments 2021 being held in San Francisco from Aug. 9-12, 2021.

Sincerely,

Jane Larimer
President and CEO