Everything You Need to Know About the Upcoming 2026 MDA Clinical & Scientific Conference

The 2026 MDA Clinical & Scientific Conference is quickly approaching. Taking place March 8-11, 2026, at the Hilton Orlando in Orlando Florida, this year’s conference will explore the latest research and clinical advancements for neuromuscular disease. In an era of new treatments and life-changing discoveries, this gathering of leading clinicians, researchers, industry partners, advocacy organizations and community members is an opportunity to gain valuable insights as we showcase groundbreaking research and clinical accomplishments. The conference is a one-of-a-kind global forum for neuromuscular disease professionals to share knowledge, spark innovation, and continue to move the field of neuromuscular disease research, care and treatment forward.

“The 2026 MDA Clinical & Scientific Conference reflects the remarkable momentum of our field as treatments for neuromuscular diseases rapidly advance. Almost every major breakthrough in research, care, and treatment has roots in the connections and collaborations formed at this conference,” says Sharon Hesterlee, PhD, President and CEO, Muscular Dystrophy Association. “This year’s agenda highlights the innovation driving us forward—from gene therapies and disease-modifying drugs to transformative approaches in clinical care. The breadth of expertise represented by our session chairs and speakers underscores Muscular Dystrophy Association’s role as the central convener of the global neuromuscular community, bringing together the very leaders who are shaping the future of this field.”

Keynote Speaker: John F. Crowley

This year’s keynote presentation will be delivered by John F. Crowley, President and CEO of the Biotechnology Innovation Organization (BIO). His keynote, “Driving the Future of Innovation, Policy, and Patient Impact,” will explore how patient-driven advocacy, biotechnology entrepreneurship, and emerging technologies are transforming the landscape of medical research and care. He will highlight the vital role of organizations like Muscular Dystrophy Association and BIO in building a robust ecosystem that empowers early diagnosis, fosters equitable access, and accelerates the development of transformative therapies for rare and neuromuscular diseases.

“We are living in an extraordinary era for biotechnology—one where innovation, data-driven insights, and patient partnerships are transforming what’s possible for people living with rare diseases,” John says.  “For 75 years, the Muscular Dystrophy Association has embodied that spirit, fueling discovery, accelerating new therapies, and uniting a global community of scientists, clinicians, affiliated healthcare providers, advocates, and families. I am honored to be part of this important conference and look forward to a lively gathering that deepens relationships, moves science forward and builds the types of partnerships that will transform the standard of care for patients around the world.”

Conference Agenda

Conference programming boasts seven tracks with multiple, topic-specific presentations from expert chairs. Planned tracks include:

• Allied Health
• Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS)
• Care Trends
• Disease Mechanism & Therapeutic Strategy
• Drug Development Considerations
• Lab to Life
• Neurology

You can view the full agenda and session topics online here.

Collective advocacy through the NeuroMuscular Advocacy Collaborative (NMAC) at Conference

Alongside the scientific sessions and research updates, an equally powerful convening takes place: the annual meeting of the NeuroMuscular Advocacy Collaborative (NMAC). This gathering unites more than 30 patient advocacy organizations to align on shared policy priorities and strengthen the collective voice of the neuromuscular community.

Conference registration

The conference will be held March 8-11 in Orlando, Florida. Detailed information about the conference and registration can be found here.

Members of the neuromuscular disease community registered with MDA are welcome to participate in the virtual conference at no cost or attend in person at a discounted rate offered for patients, caregivers, and MDA volunteers until allotted spaces are filled. People living with neuromuscular conditions and their  families interested in attending virtually or in-person, please complete this form prior to registration. Once verified by MDA, individuals will receive a separate email containing a registration link for the 2026 MDA Clinical & Scientific Conference.