Don't get the problem. Professor picks conference, grad student submits paper and professor's group pays the trip. Isn't that how it's done? I always enjoyed those conferences.
SQL Server. Dozens of free events a year, one in most major cities, 20-40
Sessions/Presenters, token payment that covers lunch (and ensures attendance).
The main event (PASS Summit) is held yearly, has 150 to 200 presentations/presenters, and presenters admission is free. It’s a community event and it’s freaking fantastic.
Idk what conferences you're going to man I've enjoyed mine once I get through that preliminary don't know anyone struggle. Having speakers in person allows actual conversation beyond the q+a. Also students and "trainees" get actually discounted rates. Besides which your PIs funding should be reimbursing you which is means you get cc points for free.
I just love how some things cost astronomical amounts of money just because academia or the company is supposed to cover those expenses and nobody sane is not going to buy that for themselves anyway :(
It's like the nerdy forgotten stepchild of the hospitals, insurance, and pharmaceutical industries. They make up numbers amongst themselves for the little guy to pay.