An immersive urban leadership conference, Next City Vanguard, will take place in Chicago from September 15-18, 2026. The event aims to connect, challenge, and inspire rising leaders across a variety of sectors, including urban planning, community development, and sustainability.
A Focus on Equity
The 2026 conference will center on the theme “The America That Never Was: In Pursuit of Housing, Jobs, Community Wealth Building, and Environmental Justice.” Participants will engage in tours, panels, workshops, and receptions designed to foster understanding of urban challenges and innovations.
Vanguard draws participants from diverse backgrounds, including startup founders, government officials, and nonprofit leaders. Alumni have continued to collaborate and create impact in cities globally, according to past participants.
A Transformative Experience
One past participant described the conference as “a transformative experience” that fosters “meaningful exchanges” and empowers “a network of changemakers.” The experience is designed to extend beyond the event itself, driving tangible results in communities.
Those selected to attend will not pay a conference fee, but are responsible for their own travel and accommodations. Limited travel stipends may be available.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Next City Vanguard conference?
Next City Vanguard is an immersive urban leadership conference designed to connect, challenge, and inspire rising leaders across sectors like urban planning and sustainability.
What is the theme of the 2026 conference?
The theme of the 2026 Vanguard conference is “The America That Never Was: In Pursuit of Housing, Jobs, Community Wealth Building, and Environmental Justice.”
What are the application deadlines and fees?
Earlybird applications are open from March 2nd to April 7th with a $25 fee. The application deadline is May 14th, with a $35 fee.
How might the connections forged at this conference shape future urban development initiatives?
