RETURNING TO BOSTON · JULY 2026
2026 ZTTK GLOBAL
COMMUNITY CONFERENCE
July 17–19, 2026 · Boston Marriott Cambridge · Cambridge, MA
📍 Cambridge, MA · 📅 3-Day Program · 🎥 In-Person + Virtual · 👶 Free Childcare Available
Conference begins in:
✨ More details coming soon! Registration is open now — secure your spot and check back regularly as the full program, speakers, and agenda are confirmed.
ABOUT THE CONFERENCE
Where the ZTTK Community Comes Together
The ZTTK Community Conference brings together families, caregivers, researchers, clinicians, and industry partners dedicated to empowering the lives of our SON-Shines. In 2025, we gathered 180+ attendees for two inspiring days of connection, learning, and hope. We can't wait to do it again — bigger and better — in Boston this July.
Building on the success of our inaugural conference, this year's event will continue to strengthen connections across the ZTTK community, share the latest in research and clinical care, and advance patient-centered science — all while providing a welcoming, accessible space for families.
"We look forward to once again strengthening connections, sharing knowledge, and advancing patient-centered research. We hope you'll join us!"
— Ada Lio, Executive Director
PROGRAM SCHEDULE
What to Expect
Science & Research Day
1:00 – 5:00 PM
- 4:00 – 6:00 PM — Family Registration Open
- 5:00 – 6:00 PM — Scientific Happy Hour at the hotel
- 6:00 PM — Optional Family / CAB / SAB / Researcher Social Time — Eastern Food Hall
Family Day One
8:00 AM – 4:00 PM · Reception & Dinner 6:00 – 8:00 PM
- 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM — SON-Shine Program & Sibling Program (available Family Day 1 & 2)
- 9:30 AM – 4:00 PM — Bio Sample Collection Opportunity (sign-up required; Family Day 1 only)
- Genetics Q&A — sign-up sheet at registration
- Citizen Health booth — learn how to participate in ZTTK research
Family Day Two
8:00 AM – 12:00 PM
- Afternoon — Red Sox Game (pre-sign-up required)
Agenda is subject to minor updates before the conference.
CONFERENCE DETAILS
Everything You Need to Know
All the practical information to help you plan your trip to Cambridge.
Venue
Boston Marriott Cambridge
50 Broadway, Cambridge, MA 02142
All sessions, childcare, and dining on one accessible floor.
Hotel & Accommodations
Group rate of $160++ per night at the Boston Marriott Cambridge. Booking details sent after registration.
Travel Stipends
Travel stipends are available again this year! Apply below — notifications sent Mid-April. Does not guarantee a stipend.
Apply for a Travel Stipend →Virtual Attendance
Can't make it in person? A virtual option will be available! Details will be shared closer to the conference date.
Virtual details coming soonKIDS & FAMILY
Free Childcare — Included
Just like in 2025, we're offering two types of complimentary childcare. Sign up during the registration process. Questions? Contact Abby Jensen at abby@zttk.org
☀️ SON-Shine Room
Managed by Corporate Kids Events, Inc. — experienced with ZTTK and kids with special needs. 1:2 provider-to-child ratio, customized care. Adjacent to the general session room, everything on one floor. Snacks provided; kids join parents for lunch.
🎉 Sibling Activity Room
A special dedicated space for siblings with their own agenda and activities. Welcome to visit SON-Shine siblings anytime! Older siblings may come and go with parental approval. Same floor, adjacent to main sessions.
Help Another Family Attend
Donations collected through conference registration go directly toward travel assistance for ZTTK families. Your generosity makes it possible for more families to experience this meaningful gathering.