
For decades, innovation has played a vital role in American economic leadership. The United States built its advantage by creating outsized impact through bold ideas and a belief in the power of business to affect positive change.
Today, that advantage is no longer assured. World-class innovation requires sustained investment in research, an ethical regulatory environment, access to global talent, and a culture that values collaboration and divergent thinking—all of which is currently under strain. Political rhetoric and policy debates have called into question the health and sustainability of America's innovation ecosystem.
On the eve of the country’s 250th birthday, we'll take a close look at this question from multiple angles. Where does the U.S. stand on the global innovation stage? What’s at stake if America loses momentum? Through panel discussions and breakout sessions, we'll unpack what still works and what must change.
In a moment of political uncertainty, business leaders—not governments alone—will determine whether American innovation stalls or accelerates. This year’s Impact Council annual meeting will challenge executives to consider the role they must play in keeping the U.S. competitive in a rapidly shifting global landscape.
We hope you will join us at Grace Farms. You or your office may RSVP on your behalf below. Registration for individual sessions and speakers will be announced in the coming weeks.
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2026 Impact Council: The New Rules of Business
The annual meeting will be featured in the Fall 2026 issue of Fast Company. Additionally, quotes and comments from member roundtables throughout the meeting will be covered on fastcompany.com, and the big themes that emerge during the meeting will inform Fast Company’s coverage for weeks and months to come. Last year’s editorial package featuring the Impact Council may be found here.
