The ChangeNOW 2026 summit is set to take place at the historic Grand Palais in Paris, bringing together an impressive array of global leaders and innovators to tackle pressing environmental and social issues. Highlighting the urgent need for action, this year’s event will focus on practical solutions within the framework of planetary boundaries, as experts from various sectors unite to chart a sustainable path forward.
A Crucial Meeting of Minds
Scheduled from March 30 to April 1, 2026, ChangeNOW will welcome participants from over 140 countries, anticipating a turnout of 40,000 attendees, including representatives from 10,000 companies, 1,200 investors, and 1,000 journalists. The summit aims to foster collaboration among diverse stakeholders—entrepreneurs, NGOs, corporate leaders, and policy makers—who will engage in discussions about crucial topics such as climate governance, cross-border cooperation, and European sovereignty.
Santiago Lefebvre, the founder and CEO of ChangeNOW, emphasised the significance of the summit, stating, “In a world shaped by planetary limits, the question is not whether to act, but how. ChangeNOW brings together science, business, and civil leadership to structure concrete action.” This year’s summit will serve as a platform for showcasing innovative yet achievable solutions to some of the most daunting challenges facing our planet.
What to Expect at the Summit
ChangeNOW is not merely an annual event; it is the world’s largest gathering dedicated to environmental and social solutions. This year, the summit’s thematic zones will explore various sectors including food, health, agriculture, and biodiversity, presenting 1,000 sustainable solutions aimed at addressing major global challenges. Participants will have the chance to attend more than 50 workshops and engage in networking opportunities ranging from ice-breaker sessions to one-on-one meetings by sector.
The summit’s history is rich with impactful collaborations. For instance, Slovenian startup PlanetCare has successfully partnered with the French Ministry of Ecological and Social Transition to enact policies that prevent the pollution of 500 tons of plastic microfibres. Furthermore, the Blue Ocean Partners’ collaboration with Swen Capital Partners has resulted in significant funding aimed at ocean health innovations.
Prominent Voices at ChangeNOW
This year’s summit will feature over 500 speakers from diverse backgrounds, including scientists, activists, and business leaders. Key figures such as Laurent Fabius, President of COP21, and Johan Rockström, a pioneer in planetary boundaries research, will share their insights. Additionally, high-profile speakers like Matt Damon will contribute to discussions on water and sanitation, leveraging his expertise as co-founder of WaterEquity.
The event will also include a variety of panels addressing crucial themes such as emissions reduction and nature-based solutions. Notable discussions will range from ‘Environmental Intelligence’ to ‘Making Nature Protection Sexy’, promising a dynamic and engaging experience for attendees.
Opportunities for the Public
ChangeNOW 2026 is designed to be inclusive, offering opportunities for the general public to participate on April 1. Visitors are invited to explore innovative solutions showcased by exhibitors within the Grand Palais and attend open conferences throughout the day. Families can engage with educational activities, and young attendees under 18 can secure free tickets.
Moreover, the summit will host an Impact Job Fair featuring over 500 recruiters offering more than 600 job opportunities, alongside training programmes for those seeking meaningful careers in sustainability.
Why it Matters
As the world grapples with the impacts of climate change and environmental degradation, the ChangeNOW summit emerges as a pivotal initiative, uniting a diverse range of voices to foster actionable solutions. By addressing the urgent challenges we face through collaboration and innovation, this summit not only inspires hope but amplifies the call for immediate action. With such a formidable gathering on the horizon, the potential for meaningful change is palpable, underscoring the necessity of collective commitment to a sustainable future.
