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?
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Note: This Conference session is ticketed.Please purchase your
tickets on Eventbrite. You will then receive an email from Sched with login information that allows you to make your personal schedule.
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A special thank you to our sponsors: The 13th Annual Tom Tom Festival is presented with the University of Virginia, UVA Innovates, Virginia Tourism, RL Beyer Custom Homes, and Ludwig Kuttner.
