2025 Impact Summit and Gala

The annual Impact Summit & Gala is the leading national event for South Asian American changemakers—bringing together elected officials, organizers, advocates, and community leaders. This year’s theme, Desis Persist: Our Stories, Our Strength, honors the resilience of our communities and the urgency of this moment. Join us in Washington, DC for two days of inspiration, action, and celebration—culminating in a powerful Gala that lifts up South Asian leadership and impact.

RSVP and Purchase Tickets

  • RSVP and Purchase Tickets

    Our daytime Summit will offer numerous trainings, keynotes from the nation’s top leaders, and networking opportunities.

    Early bird ticket rates for the two-day Summit are only $75 and includes lunch and refreshments (both days). 

    Our can’t-miss gala will feature incredible keynotes, entertainment, food and beverages on September 17th. Ticket prices start at $250.

    RSVP for both events and purchase your tickets here.

  • Call for Proposals

    Help us shape this year’s Summit and Gala! We’re inviting submissions from performers, organizations, and workshop leaders.

    We are seeking proposals for three types of opportunities:

    • Artistic performance in dance, singing, poetry, instrumental or any other expressive methods
    • Facilitate an affinity group or networking session for like-minded community members
    • Showcase your organization and share resources throughout our Summit at our table expo or sell products at the Gala

    Learn more: Proposal Fact Sheet

    Submit a proposal

    Proposals will be accepted until Tuesday, July 15th, 2025 at 11:59 PM ET.
    All accepted submissions and facilitators will be notified by August 22, 2025.

  • Award Nominations

    This year, we are awarding three awards at our 2025 Summit & Gala: Desis Persist on September 16th and 17th in Washington, DC:

    The Dalip Singh Saund Award is presented to an elected official for outstanding public service and dedication to civic engagement and involvement at the state and local levels of government.

    The Dr. Shyamala Gopalan Harris Award is given to an individual who demonstrates courage, determination, and commitment to allyship and the cause of civil rights for all in the United States.

    The Voices of the Diaspora Award honors a storyteller, artist, or organization whose work uplifts the diverse experiences of the South Asian American diaspora.

    Submit a nomination

  • Summit Agenda

    2025 Summit and Gala: Desis Persist
    Our Stories, Our Strength
    September 16-17, 2025 

    Get ready for an unforgettable two days of learning, connection, and action. Full agenda coming soon!

    September 16th: 12:30 PM – 5:00 PM
    Kick off the Summit with an afternoon of community-building, networking, and inspiration. Enjoy dynamic keynotes and hands-on workshops focused on Storytelling & Identity, Policy Advocacy, and Solidarity & Allyship

    September 17th: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
    Take your impact to the next level with a day devoted to civic engagement and leadership. Highlights include an Indian American Congressional Panel, trainings on community organizing & running for office, and a Capitol Hill Day of Action. We’ll go to the Hill to meet with U.S. Representatives and Senators to advocate for our communities. Training provided!

  • Event Sponsors

    Learn more about our sponsorship opportunities here.

    By joining as a sponsor for the 2025 Summit and Gala, you are investing in the future of our diaspora’s civic engagement and participation as we work towards better representation of the more than 5 million in our communities.

    For questions about sponsorship or to confirm participation, please contact prerana@iaimpact.org.