Dignified Futures

April 30-May 1, 2027 | California

Call for Presentations Coming Soon!

How might dignified futures be coaxed from the present?

How might design be a force for dignity?

The pace of change isn’t slowing — and the “now” feels heavier than ever. Political shifts, scarce resources, and constant urgency short-circuits our best intentions to collaborate, listen, and create with care. In the rush, it’s easy for dignity to get lost in the noise.

But what if we chose a different rhythm? What if we designed the updraft together - one that lifts possibility, connection, and shared purpose?

Dignified Futures 2026 is a space to explore that question. A call to reimagine how we design systems for social impact - grounded in dignity, powered by community, and moved by curiosity. Let’s learn, experiment, and build forward… together.

A smiling man with light skin, dark hair, and a beard wearing a black shirt, against a white background.

“We need to aim higher. The work we do isn't only impactful – it's essential. The people we serve need and deserve it.”

Juhan Sonin, CEO @ GoInvo

2024 Conference: Songs for Social Justice

At the 2024 conference in Boston, we were joined by students from Berklee School of Music as they performed songs and poetry on health topics and gave us a strong reminder why we do the work we do.

Conference Organizers

  • Chris McCarthy

    Chris McCarthy

    Founder, Innovation Learning Network (ILN)

    Co-Host & Co-MC

  • Amy Heymans

    Amy Heymans

    Founder & Chief Strategy Officer, Beneficent

    Co-Host & Co-MC

  • “We honor the dignity of our fellow human beings by acknowledging each person’s infinite value, equality, and uniqueness.”

    Davie Jaffe Changing the World from the Inside Out

Contact Us

Have a question about the conference? Want to stay informed or collaborate in some way? We can’t wait to hear from you!