What is the Fast Company Impact Council?
The Fast Company Impact Council is an invitation-only leadership group formed in 2019 to bring together purpose-driven leaders from different industries and disciplines. Throughout the year, members convene for a mix of optional on-the-record and “Chatham House Rules” virtual gatherings that help inform Fast Company’s editorial coverage on innovation, social impact, leadership, technology, creativity, and design in business.
What is the purpose of the annual meeting?
Members will have the chance to meet each other in person, hear from experts, and share their insights about the challenges and opportunities they see in business in 2026 and beyond.
What is the theme of the annual meeting?
For decades, innovation has been central to American economic leadership—built on bold ideas and a belief in business as a force for positive change.
Today, that advantage is no longer assured. World-class innovation requires sustained investment in research, ethical regulation, access to global talent, and a culture that values collaboration and divergent thinking—all of which are currently under strain.
On the eve of the country's 250th birthday, we'll examine 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 their role in keeping the U.S. competitive in a rapidly shifting global landscape.
What is the event address?
Grace Farms
365 Lukes Wood Rd.
New Canaan, CT 06840
What is the timing of the annual meeting?
The Impact Council Annual Meeting is a full-day event starting at 9:00 a.m. ET and ending with a cocktail reception at 4:30 p.m ET with fellow Impact Council members and members of the Fast Company editorial team. Lunch will be served. Transporation to and from NYC will be provided.
How will the annual meeting be covered in Fast Company?
The annual meeting will be featured in the Fall 2026 issue of Fast Company. (Past features may be found here, here, and here.) 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.
Is there a dress code for the event?
Business casual attire.
Will every member be included in the print issue?
Every member’s name, title, and company will be listed in the print issue.
I can’t attend the annual meeting. Will I still be included in the print issue?
Yes, you don’t need to attend to be listed in the magazine. We will strive to find other opportunities for non-attendees to connect with journalists to share insights for our digital coverage, but part of what makes the event coverage so lively is the exchange of ideas with other members.
Bus Transportation Details:
Fast Company will provide complimentary round-trip coach transportation from Manhattan.
Pickup Location: 31st Street at the corner of 8th Avenue (in front of Moynihan Train Hall at Penn Station)
Arrival Time: 7:15 AM
Departure Time: 7:30 AM SHARP
Estimated Return to NYC: 6:30 PM
• You will be asked to finalize your mode of transportation (bus, train, or self-transport via car) during Session Selection the week of May 20
• WiFi will be available on the bus
• Look for Fast Company representatives who will be on-site to assist you
Travel Recommendations:
• We strongly recommend all attendees arrive in NYC on Monday, June 1st to ensure you are present for the early morning bus departure on June 2nd.
• Fast Company will provide complimentary coach bus transportation (recommended). We are making adjustments to the 2026 schedule to avoid any traffic issues experienced last year.
• Alternative transportation options:
Metro North train service to New Canaan station
Self-transport via car
Hotel Recommendations:
Please note: there is no room block for this event. The hotels below are simply recommendations for your convenience.
• Kimpton Hotel Eventi — 851 6th Ave, New York, NY 10001 (Stylish boutique hotel, just 3 blocks from the pickup location)
• Hyatt Herald Square New York — 30 W 31st St, New York, NY 10001 (Modern hotel steps from Moynihan Train Hall, directly adjacent to the pickup point)
• Hyatt Place New York/Midtown-South — 52 W 36th St, New York, NY 10018 (Spacious rooms with rooftop Empire State Building views; 5-minute walk to pickup)
• Courtyard by Marriott Manhattan/Times Square West — 307 W 37th St at 8th Ave, New York, NY 10018 (Well-appointed Marriott property right on 8th Avenue, 6 blocks from pickup)
• The Ritz-Carlton New York, NoMad — 25 W 28th St, New York, NY 10001 (Luxury option a short walk away for guests seeking an elevated experience)