A national conversation.
Rooted in Spartanburg.
Every child's future is shaped by more than talent or determination, it is shaped by the opportunities they encounter, the relationships they build, and the communities that invest in their success.
Thrive 2026 brings together educators, practitioners, nonprofit professionals, business partners, philanthropists, policymakers, and government leaders to explore how stronger relationships, partnerships, and community connections expand opportunity and help children and families thrive.
Hosted in Spartanburg, South Carolina, a nationally recognized model for cross-sector collaboration and collective impact, Thrive 2026 is more than a conference. It is a place to connect with innovative leaders, learn from proven strategies, and build the partnerships that create lasting change.
Together, we'll discover how communities can transform systems, expand opportunity, and ensure every child has the relationships, resources, and support needed to achieve life success and reach their full potential.
October 29, 2026
7:45 AM – 4:00 PM
Spartanburg Marriott
Spartanburg, South Carolina
$200 TO ATTEND
Includes full conference admission, continental breakfast, lunch, materials, and networking opportunities.
Leading Voices. Bold Ideas. Real Impact
FEATURED SPEAKERS
DR. RAJ CHETTY
Keynote Speaker
Professor of Economics at Harvard University and Director of Opportunity Insights. His research uses large-scale data to better understand how neighborhoods, social networks, and community connections shape opportunity and life outcomes.
CHRISTIAN RHODES
Featured Speaker
Chief National Impact Officer of Harlem Children's Zone. Christian leads one of the nation's most recognized place-based organizations, working to create pathways of opportunity through education, family support, and community investment.
LISA M. LAWSON
Featured Speaker
President and CEO of the Annie E. Casey Foundation and Board Chair of the Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond, Lisa M. Lawson leads national efforts to improve outcomes for children, youth and families. She champions Thrive by 25® and is the author of Thrive: How the Science of the Adolescent Brain Helps Us Imagine a Better Future for All Children, exploring how adolescent development can shape brighter futures for young people.
A full day of learning, connection, and inspiration.
WHAT TO EXPECT
INSPIRING IDEAS
Hear from nationally recognized leaders and researchers.
REAL CONVERSATIONS
Engage in discussions about communities and opportunity.
CROSS-SECTOR PERSPECTIVES
Learn from leaders in education, business, nonprofit, government, and more.
PRACTICAL TAKEAWAYS
Gain ideas you can apply in your work and community.
MEANINGFUL CONNECTIONS
Build relationships with peers from across the region and beyond.
A detailed agenda will be shared as speakers and sessions are finalized.
Stay in Downtown Spartanburg
PLAN YOUR STAY
Spartanburg Marriott
Conference Venue
AC Hotel Spartanburg
13-15 Minute Walk
Fairfield Inn & Suites
4-5 Minute Walk
Need additional options?
Explore more places to stay
Be part of the conversation that helps communities thrive.
$200 TO ATTEND
Includes full conference admission, continental breakfast, lunch, materials, and networking opportunities.