DO NOT read a paper. Get a publication Have a perfect copy of your paper ready to hand to an Editor of one of the many magazines represented at the meeting. Make that connection People at the meeting are going to be interested in what you deem important for study. You can make invaluable connection with such soul mates at conferences in friendships which can last for decades. Either way, it is heartening to know that others are interested in the same things you are.
Every profession is a group of human beings.
The cocktail parties and receptions are often the best places to pick up this informal information. Formal papers may not focus on the trendy aspects as much as hallway exchanges. Every national meeting has one or two sessions devoted to grant writing. Attend these sessions and learn what might be fundable. This kind of grantsmanship is good for you and good for your school.