In 2026, as the United States marks its 250th anniversary, ARNOVA invites scholars, practitioners, and community leaders from around the world to reflect on the enduring civic activity that fuels voluntary spirit and the collective pursuit of the common good. From the earliest mutual aid societies and reform movements to contemporary networks of social entrepreneurs and community organizers, voluntary action has been central to the American democracy, and it resonates far beyond U.S. borders.
A quarter of a millennium later, this anniversary presents an inflection point to both celebrate and critically examine how grassroots efforts, philanthropy, and nonprofit institutions wordwide have shaped civic life, democratic inclusion, and self-governance across time and place. The theme also invites comparison and learning across diverse country contexts.
How have geographically, economically, and politically diverse societies cultivated civic capacity and voluntary association to advance democracy, resilience, and citizen and community engagement? What can we learn from global movements that connect local action to systemic institutional change that strengthen democracy? When do democratic institutions fail and what role does civil society play in these dynamics? What are the antecedents of democratic backsliding and how can civil society organization help rebuild democracy? What role do nonprofits play shaping civic discourse? How are nonprofits mobilizing citizens and individuals for civic and political action, including electoral participation? We invite proposals that deal with these questions, pertinent to the conference theme, and also invite proposals that align with the standing conference tracks.
Igniting Civic Action challenges us to look backward and forward, locally and globally. As we reflect on centuries of voluntary action, we ask how today's civic actors, across nations, traditions, and communities, can ignite new forms of democratic engagement, trust, and shared purpose in an interconnected world.
Important Dates
March 16: Submissions open
April 30: Abstract submission process closes for non-members
May 7: Abstract submission process closes for members
June 15: Submitters Notified
Submission link: https://bit.ly/arnova2026
If you have any questions about the conference or would like assistance with your submission, please email conference@arnova.org.
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Yun Ha Cho
Kelley School of Business, Indiana University
Bloomington IN
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