Welcome back to the Kansas City Courier, your go-to guide for the latest news, can’t-miss updates, and insider tips for our 2026 Annual Convention happening on Oct. 3-6 in Kansas City. 

Curious to learn more about what’s on the agenda? Check out our schedule-at-a-glance.

This year’s education sessions are going to be nothing like you’ve seen before. At #NCPA2026, each session will focus on teaching you “how” you can turn peer-tested strategies into results at your pharmacy. Throughout the meeting, you'll be able to choose from more than 30 educational sessions and the opportunity to earn up to 12 hours of continuing education.

Learn how to grow your business, incorporate AI, strengthen your bottom line, expand patient care services, navigate emerging technologies, and advocate more effectively for independent pharmacy. You and your team members can learn together and take back things like how to prepare for and respond to LTC audits. Want to participate in the new ACCESS program? We’ll show you how to make sure your pharmacy workflow is ready to take that on.

Additionally, back by popular demand, Shoot the Breeze® returns with candid, interactive discussions where pharmacy owners tackle today's biggest challenges, share what's working, and exchange ideas you can implement immediately. You'll also find our Take 5 sessions, where your peers deliver five-minute presentations on strategies that are delivering results in their pharmacies, followed by 10 minutes for questions and learning how to apply those ideas into your practice. Come for the “what” and leave with the “how."

NCPA is excited to again host the Community Pharmacy Residency and Fellowship Showcase! The showcase provides an opportunity to network with students who are passionate about community pharmacy and recruit your next resident or fellow. Reserve your space to promote your program at this year's showcase. The Residency and Fellowship Showcase will take place on Sunday, Oct. 4, during the 2026 NCPA Annual Convention.

Learn more and register by Aug. 13.

Open to all pharmacists and pharmacy students, the NCPA Innovation Center is hosting the Innovation in Community Practice Poster Symposium on Oct. 4 to showcase independent community pharmacies that are advancing community practice through innovative ideas and research. The symposium is designed to engage pharmacists and pharmacy students in peer-to-peer learning about new opportunities to advance their practices.

Learn more and apply by Aug. 13.

In the days leading up to our Annual Convention, we are hosting several workshops that offer in-depth insights into issues shaping the business and practice of pharmacy today. These hands-on courses, on Oct. 1-2, will cover the fundamentals of pharmacy ownership, real-world applications for AI technology, long-term care pharmacy at home, and ways to advance your existing LTC pharmacy services.

Secure your spot for one (or more) of our pre-convention workshops.

Please note: To sign up for pre-convention courses, you must register through the convention registration process, even if you’re not attending the full convention. Separate registration fees apply.

Experience the excitement of college basketball at the College Basketball Experience, a one-of-a-kind interactive attraction connected to the T-Mobile Center. Home to the National Collegiate Basketball Hall of Fame, visitors can test their skills with shooting, passing, and dunk challenges, step behind the broadcast desk to call game highlights, and explore the history and legends of the sport through immersive exhibits. Whether you're a devoted basketball fan or simply looking for a unique Kansas City experience, this attraction offers fun for visitors of all ages.

Learn more and secure your tickets.

Discover the latest products, services, and solutions designed to help your independent pharmacy succeed at the #NCPA2026 Expo Hall. Meet with exhibitors offering everything from pharmacy management systems and robotics to wholesalers, buying groups, front-end merchandise, and more.

Curious about who’ll be on the expo floor? See the up-to-date lineup!