Join us for the 18th annual Sustain Dane Summit on Friday, November 6, 2026.
Join us on Friday, November 6, 2026, for the 18th Annual Sustain Dane Summit at the Monona Terrace Community & Convention Center from 8:00 AM–3:00 PM. The Summit brings together people from across sectors to learn, connect, reflect on progress, and build skills for creating a more sustainable and resilient future.
Creating meaningful climate solutions requires both individual actions and systemic change. We understand that the health of our environment is inseparable from the health of people. This year’s Summit will explore how these approaches work together, using our food system as a powerful example of how everyday choices, community initiatives, and broader policies can collectively shape a more sustainable future.
Sarah Lloyd will be joining us for our 2026 keynote session. From the food on our plates to the fields where it is grown, our food system is shaped by a web of environmental, economic, and social actions. This session will unpack those connections and explore how change happens at different levels – from the choices we make every day to the systems that shape those choices.
Sarah Lloyd is a farmer, researcher, and rural sociologist who brings a deep understanding of the connections between people, land, and our food system. Through her work and lived experience, Sarah explores how farmers, communities, and institutions can build more resilient and sustainable food systems. She works off-farm for the Soil Health & Agroecological Living Lab at University of Wisconsin-Madison, the Forever Green Initiative at the University of Minnesota, and the Wisconsin Food Hub Cooperative.
This session will connect the big-picture forces shaping our food system with the experiences of those working within it. We will explore how individual choices and systemic solutions can work together to create meaningful climate action.
Local Businesses Taking Action:
The Summit will showcase how local businesses and organizations are turning sustainability ideas into real-world projects. As major employers, innovators, and community leaders, businesses have a unique opportunity to drive climate solutions at scale and spark ripple effects across our community. Hear directly from businesses about the initiatives they have developed over the past year and learn how collective action can create meaningful community impact.
Live Forward Awards:
Who do you know that’s making a difference in the sustainability of our communities? The Live Forward Awards honor local changemakers and emerging leaders who are creating positive impact through sustainability, community well-being, and resilience. Nominate someone for the Sustain Dane 2026 Live Forward Awards today!
Award recipients receive a $250 recognition award and community-wide recognition for their contributions. Nominees and awardees will be recognized at the 2026 Sustain Dane Summit on Friday, November 6. Nomination deadline is Friday, September 4 at 11:59 PM.
Member Registrations
Member organizations receive complimentary registration based on their membership size and level. See below for the number of registrations for each size & level. Thank you to our members and supporting partners!
Interested in additional visibility at the Summit?
Learn more in the sponsorship packet here. Sponsorship levels range from $500 to $10,000. Through sponsorship of the 2026 Summit, you can:
- Elevate your organization’s commitment to sustainability in Dane County
- Participate in meaningful learning, networking, and professional development
- Gain business development as a leader in corporate social responsibility
- Be visible through extensive marketing, press releases, and online promotions
Email Claire Oleksiak at claire@sustaindane.org to discuss your desired sponsorship level. For maximum recognition opportunity, secure sponsorship by September 30, 2026.
Scholarships
Scholarships are available—email hello@sustaindane.org for info.
Registration Deadline
Register by October 31 to ensure we can accommodate dietary requests and to receive a printed name tag.
Getting There
Check out RoundTrip for alternative transit methods. Parking for the Monona Terrace.
