Impact Summit 2024: Call for Proposals

A cornerstone event within our community, Indian American Impact’s annual Summit and Gala brings together hundreds of South Asian American changemakers and community leaders to engage in meaningful dialogue, celebrate achievements, and chart the course for our collective future.

Held less than six months ahead of the 2024 elections, this year’s Summit and Gala: Desis Decide isn’t just another gathering; it’s a rallying cry for Indian and South Asian Americans to recognize the pivotal role we play in shaping the political landscape of our nation. Our community has the potential to be the margin of victory, influencing outcomes and determining who represents us at every level of government.

  • The Opportunity

    We are opening up submissions for workshops and trainings so YOU can help shape this year’s Summit. Have an issue you want to present on or a training you think will help develop the next generation of policymakers, leaders, and activists? Share your ideas with us! 

    We are seeking proposals for three types of opportunities: 

    • Lead a breakout session workshop or training along one of the following tracks: Activism through Art, Allyship in Action, or Sustainable Organizing
    • 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

    Read more about each opportunity below and apply by March 24th for consideration!

  • Breakout Sessions

    On May 15th, we are seeking community input for the following tracks: Activism through Art, Allyship in Action, and Sustainable Organizing.

    Activism through Art Art often propels entire movements forward and inspires people to action. If you are an artist who leverages their platform or medium to advance a cause or issue important to South Asian American communities, we invite you to lead a session to share your art and advice with Summit attendees. Examples of session topics include, but are not limited to, South Asian voices in print, activism through film, storytelling, or a workshop for freelancers. 
    Allyship in Action This conference track focuses on fostering inclusive communities and spaces both within the South Asian American diaspora and beyond, with a particular focus on marginalized communities and other communities of color. In these sessions, participants will gain insights and tools to become more effective allies. Examples of session topics include, but are not limited to, LGBTQ+ inclusion, combating anti blackness, or faith-based workshops. 
    Sustainable Organizing This track is dedicated to promoting mental health and well-being within the realm of activism and community organizing. Participants will explore strategies for managing stress, prioritizing self-care, reducing burnout, and maintaining resilience while pursuing social change initiatives.

    Presenters and facilitators should create a session that tailors to 75 people in theater style seating. To review the sessions offered last year, view our 2023 Summit program.

     In addition to reaching a diverse, national audience, presenters can expect: 

    • $250 honorarium for up to 3 session facilitators or presenters 
    • Waived Summit ticket fee ($75)
    • Discounted gala ticket ($150) 

    Please note: We are unable to provide travel or accommodation reimbursements at this time.

  • Affinity Groups or Networking Session

    For the first time, Impact is soliciting proposals from experienced and passionate community leaders to facilitate affinity groups or networking sessions for attendees who share a common identity. We hope these sessions provide a platform for like-minded individuals to come together in a safe, inclusive space to share insights and foster meaningful connections. 

    These 1-1.5 hour-long sessions will take place on either the morning of May 15th, evening of May 15th (“happy hour”), or after Summit concludes at 4:00 PM on May 16th. Unlike the structured breakout sessions, these affinity group meetings are intended to be more informal, encouraging open dialogue and collaboration in a relaxed setting.

    Examples of potential affinity groups or networking sessions include, but are not limited to young professionals, faith-based affinity groups, LGBTQ+, women, small business leaders, and youth.

    In addition to reaching a diverse, national audience, presenters can expect: 

    • Waived Summit ticket fee ($75)
    • Discounted gala ticket ($150) 

    Please note: We are unable to provide travel or accommodation reimbursements at this time.

  • Table Expo

    For the first time, we will be hosting a tabling expo for vendors, sponsors, and community partners to connect with our Summit audience. While most tables will be allocated for sponsors and vendors, we are seeking proposals from community partners that can offer educational resources relevant to a national audience and/or have significant volunteer needs. Additionally, we are committed to amplifying voices from historically marginalized diaspora communities. Tabling at our Summit offers a unique platform to engage with a diverse audience of stakeholders and expand your reach. 

    Please note: Impact will provide a table but organizations tabling will need to provide all other materials including volunteers who are able to staff the table on May 15th and 16th for the entirety of the allocated time slots.

  • To Apply:

    Submissions for the 2024 Impact Summit will open on February 21, 2024. Proposals will be accepted until March 24th, 2024. All accepted submissions and facilitators will be notified by April 4, 2024.

    To apply, please fill out this form.

    Questions? Contact summit@iaimpact.org

Submit your proposal: