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Conversations. Camaraderie. Career-Building.
Small firms, mighty impact. Get ready to brainstorm with your professional peers, friends and colleagues about how to overcome today’s biggest challenges. Our objective: to facilitate a meaningful exchange of ideas that address real world problems, surprises and paths to success, while attendees forge new connections vital to their profession.
OVERNIGHT ACCOMMODATIONSSpecial room rates are available at Treetops Resort in Gaylord. Please call 1-866-348-5249 and mention the code MICPA 2025 to receive our discounted pricing. The cutoff date to make a reservation at our discounted price is July 18, 2025.
CONFERENCE T-SHIRTEach registrant will receive one Small Firm Practitioner Conference T-shirt as part of their registration. When selecting sessions for the day please let us know which size t-shirt you would like.
PRICING DETAILSRegister early to take advantage of the best price! Please note, discounted pricing is already reflected in the online price. No promo code is needed.Through July 17: $212 MICPA Members/ $287 Non-Members July 18 - August 1: $222 MICPA Members/ $297 Non-MembersAugust 2 - August 14: $232 MICPA Members/ $307 Non-MembersView the digital brochure
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After registering for this event, you can customize your sessions via 'My Registrations'
Using AI Effectively in Your PracticeDiscover how AI tools like ChatGPT, Gemini, and Copilot can transform your accounting, audit and tax processes in your firm. We explore practical applications, from issuing prompts to safeguarding data, ensuring you leave ready to enhance your practice's efficiency and productivity with AI. Thomas G. Stephens, Jr., CPA, CGMA, CITP – Shareholder, K2 Enterprises, Woodstock, GA
09:40 AM - 10:30 AM
Fraud? At My Client? No WayThink fraud can’t happen at your client’s organization? Think again. This session walks through real-world examples of how fraud is discovered, the warning signs CPAs often overlook, and the steps you should take when something doesn’t look right. Build your awareness and sharpen your instincts to better protect your clients—and your reputation.Speaker to be announced.
10:50 AM - 11:40 AM
What CPAs Need to Know About Retirement & Investment Plans From fee disclosures to fiduciary risk, retirement plans can be a minefield for clients and an opportunity for informed CPAs. Unpack investment menus, share classes, and liability concerns so you can confidently assess plan structures and add meaningful value. Brian Raymond, AIF®, CMFC®, CPFA®, CHSA® – Vice President, Business Development, Sentinel Group, Troy
Redefining Success: Tools for Emerging Firms to Scale Your PracticeSmall firm leaders face an evolving landscape- where capacity, client expectations, and strategic growth must align. Come away with actionable insights into scalable business models, modern tools, and intentional decisions that empower you to grow your practice.Ed Rivera – Director, BDO Alliance USA, Grand Rapids
11:50 AM - 12:40 PM
A WISP AwayEach year, the IRS issues an updated edition of its Written Information Security Plan (WISP) template to better assist CPAs, tax preparers and small practitioners with drafting an effective WISP. Develop a customized WISP to fit your business needs and identify the latest resources available to assist. Time will be spent on the requirement for a security plan as well as its implementation.Brad Messer, MBA, CBSA, EA – Vice President & Enrolled Agent, Messner & Fox, LLC, Financial Guardians, New Stanton, PA
01:40 PM - 02:30 PM
Bring your best ideas, experiences and questions to swap with peers and other professionals during this moderated event.
02:40 PM - 03:30 PM
03:40 PM - 04:30 PM
04:40 PM - 05:30 PM
Defining Success: What Today’s Firm Should Strive to Be – A Small Firm PanelSuccess in public accounting isn’t one-size-fits-all—it evolves with your firm’s age, leadership, types of services and goals. This dynamic panel explores how to define and pursue success through intentional leadership, risk management, and a clear sense of purpose. Hear how mission, vision, and branding shape firm identity, what it means to lead with an entrepreneurial mindset, and how to align personal and professional growth with long-term success.Bradley Booms, CPA – Booms Accounting, Bad Axe Shanna Johnson, CPA – Johnson CPA & Company PC, AlpenaChristine Peters, CPA – Shareholder, Partyka & Company PC, WarrenModerator: Kareyna Miller, CPA, CRISC – Founder, LEACIF, Otter Lake
05:30 PM - 06:00 PM