Wednesday, April 16
9am - 5pm
What is the Big Vision for our community? Join a multi-sector gathering designed to ignite visionary thinking and inclusive regional storytelling.
The EVOLVE Conference launches with a day-long exploration of how we build the relational capital and community cohesion, to envision and shape the future of our hometown. CIVIC FUTURES is a pioneering multi-sector gathering designed to inspire bold regional storytelling rooted in inclusion, creativity, and innovation.
This full-day event unites changemakers from diverse sectors—private industry, government, philanthropy, academia, and institutions—into a dynamic, creative space. Through interactive dialogue we’ll explore: What could our region be known for? And What coalitions and partnerships are essential to getting us there?
Together, we’ll co-create a roadmap for the region’s identity and growth, paving the way for meaningful action.
Themes:
Democracy 2026 - As Charlottesville and the nation approach the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, we have a unique opportunity to reflect on the evolving promise of democracy in one of the cradles of the American story.
The Innovation Economy - What if Charlottesville were known as an innovation destination? This theme explores the intersection of technology, workforce development, and investment, highlighting an economy that fosters bold ideas and shared opportunity.
Big Vision & Regional Storytelling - A region’s identity is shaped by the stories it tells to others, and to itself. How can we craft a narrative that authentically represents our community’s past and present, while inspiring collaboration toward a vibrant future.
Coalitions and Collaboration - Transformative change doesn’t happen in silos—it requires trust, friendship, and deep collaboration across sectors, institutions, and communities. How can we build action-oriented coalitions that tackle our biggest challenges?
Featured Speakers:
Badges:
Check out the full EVOLVE Conference experience!
All Conference Tracks have a Scholarship Option available for attendees in need of financial assistance.
Raise a glass to celebrate Charlottesville’s most innovative companies and organizations.
Tom Tom’s annual Innovation Mixer is the place to be. This multi-lounge extravaganza highlights the most innovative ideas and people in the region at the CODE Building.
Set in the midst of the EVOLVE Conference and thousands of leaders, the mixer assembles a diverse range of innovators -- from biotech, energy, data, defense, social impact, wellness, and technology --- and the funders who are fueling their growth.
