As the world grapples with pressing environmental and social challenges, the ChangeNOW 2026 summit is set to bring together a diverse array of leaders and innovators from across the globe. Scheduled from March 30 to April 1 at the historic Grand Palais in Paris, this pivotal event is poised to ignite discussions around actionable solutions that can steer the planet towards a more sustainable future.
Convergence of Global Leaders
This year’s summit will draw an impressive crowd of over 40,000 attendees, representing 140 countries, including 10,000 companies, 1,200 investors, and 1,000 journalists. ChangeNOW is not merely an annual gathering; it stands as the world’s largest event dedicated to advancing sustainable solutions. The summit serves as a focal point for addressing the urgent need for climate action, especially as seven of the nine planetary boundaries identified by scientists have already been breached.
Santiago Lefebvre, the founder and CEO of ChangeNOW, emphasised the imperative of action in light of these stark realities. “In a world shaped by planetary limits, the question is not whether to act, but how,” he stated, urging collaboration across sectors to forge effective pathways for sustainability.
What to Expect at ChangeNOW 2026
Attendees can look forward to a dynamic programme that includes thematic zones covering critical areas such as food security, health, agriculture, urban development, circular economy, fashion, and biodiversity. A selection of 1,000 sustainable solutions will be showcased, all chosen for their significant impact and potential for large-scale deployment.
In addition to the exhibition, the summit will host over 50 workshops and a series of talks featuring global thought leaders and innovators. Networking opportunities will abound, from ice-breaker sessions to sector-specific meet-ups, fostering collaboration among participants.
The summit has a track record of facilitating impactful partnerships. Previous collaborations include Slovenian startup PlanetCare working with the French Ministry of Ecological and Social Transition to eliminate plastic microfibre pollution, and the launch of the Women Social Entrepreneurship Institute by the French and Kenyan Red Cross.
A Line-up of Influential Voices
The summit will feature more than 500 speakers, including scientists, activists, business leaders, and public figures. Among the notable personalities slated to present are Laurent Fabius, former President of COP21, and Johan Rockström, the scientist behind the planetary boundaries framework. Additionally, actor Matt Damon will join virtually to discuss his work in water and sanitation through his initiatives, WaterEquity and Water.org.
The agenda promises a rich variety of topics, with sessions covering everything from emissions reduction strategies to the importance of nature-based solutions. The first morning alone will feature discussions on “Environmental Intelligence” and “Making Nature Protection Sexy,” illustrating the summit’s commitment to engaging and inspiring dialogue.
Opportunities for Public Engagement
ChangeNOW 2026 is not just for industry insiders; it actively invites public participation. On April 1, the Grand Palais will open its doors to the general public, allowing visitors to explore innovative solutions presented by exhibitors and attend various conferences. Families will also benefit from the Families for Change programme, making the event accessible and educational for younger audiences.
Moreover, the Impact Job Fair on the same day will connect job seekers with 500 recruiters offering over 600 job opportunities, alongside training providers aiming to equip individuals for meaningful employment in sustainability-focused roles.
Why it Matters
The ChangeNOW summit represents more than just a series of discussions; it is a vital platform for catalysing the urgent action needed to combat climate change and its far-reaching effects. By uniting diverse stakeholders—from entrepreneurs to policymakers—this event aims to foster innovative solutions that can reshape our future. In a time when the stakes have never been higher, the outcomes of ChangeNOW 2026 could play a crucial role in steering global efforts towards a sustainable and equitable world.
