The Cooperative COMPASS 2026

Find your financial rhythm. Amplify your co-op’s impact.

In a city that knows how to mix tradition with innovation, The COMPASS conference is designed for professionals involved in the financial planning and management of cooperatives.

COMPASS offers a mix of high-impact learning and meaningful peer connections designed to help you tune up your knowledge and amplify your impact.

Soak in the sounds of Nashville while gaining the latest tools, insights, and strategies to strengthen financial oversight, meet compliance, and tackle your co-op’s most complex challenges.

Don’t miss these informative sessions from CLA professionals:

Automating Routine Tasks: Practical Applications for Cooperative Accounting Teams
Monday, May 4, 2026  |  10:40 – 11:55 a.m.

This session begins with an overview of incorporating robotic process automation (RPA) into financial workflows, followed by a panel of cooperative accounting professionals sharing real-life examples of how they’ve streamlined routine tasks through automation.

Learn what tools and approaches have worked, the challenges they faced, and how automation is freeing up time for higher-value work within cooperative accounting and finance teams.

Learning objectives:

Understanding automation: Learn about automation and its practical applications around finance workflows.
Recognizing benefits: Understand the advantages of increased efficiency, reduced errors, and improved employee satisfaction.
Implementing strategies: Learn the necessary steps for successfully deploying automation in your organization.
Real-world examples: Review practical examples and case studies showcasing the impact of automation within cooperative finance teams.

Accounting for Equity Method Investments and Alternative Assets
Tuesday, May 5, 2026  |  11:20 a.m. – 12:15 p.m.

This session explores the nuanced world of accounting for equity method investments and alternative assets, offering clarity on complex reporting requirements, valuation challenges, and step up acquisitions.

Attendees will gain a deeper understanding of:

Equity method accounting: When and how to apply it, including recognition of income, adjustments for ownership changes, and handling intercompany transactions.

Alternative investments: Accounting considerations for hedge funds, private equity, venture capital, and real assets, including fair value measurement and disclosure requirements.

Regulatory and reporting updates: Key changes in GAAP that impact investment accounting.

Practical applications: Real-world examples and case studies to illustrate common pitfalls and industry best practices.

Powering the Future: A Fireside Chat for Electric Cooperatives
Tuesday, May 5, 2026  |  1:15 – 2:30 p.m.

Our panel of industry CFOs and leaders tackle the distinctive financial dynamics of electric cooperatives.

With a focus on real-world challenges, this session offers a insights, new ideas, and refined financial strategies. Topics include

• Crafting effective rate structures that balance member value and sustainability
• Navigating cash flow complexities unique to the energy sector
• Building budgets that align with cooperative principles while addressing industry-specific demands