2027 Midwest Sustainability Summit
Wednesday, June 9
Sharonville Convention Center, Cincinnati, Ohio
Flagship Event of Cincinnati Climate Week
About the Summit
The Midwest Sustainability Summit is the largest sustainability conference in the Midwest, bringing together 650 passionate and visionary leaders to share inspiring, forward-thinking, and solution-oriented ideas that propel us toward a healthier, more resilient, sustainable, and equitable future. Join Fortune 500 powerhouses, innovative entrepreneurs, government officials, sustainability directors, academic, non-profit, and community leaders committed to solving some of the region’s toughest environmental problems while creating a positive economic impact.
The Summit is hosted by Green Umbrella. Planning partners include Ohio Environmental Council, City of Cincinnati, City of Dayton, University of Cincinnati, University of Dayton, and Baraza Impact Design Studio.
Call for Speakers
Interested in speaking at the Midwest Sustainability Summit? Submissions are now open for panel discussions, workshops, and short talks. Submissions close on December 31, 2026.
Call for Artists & Performers
We want to see your artwork and performances at this year's Summit! Applications are now open for paintings, drawings, sculptures, and performances. Submissions close on March 26, 2027.
Call for Posters
Have research you want to present at this year's Summit? Applications are now open for our Summit Poster Session. Submissions close on March 26, 2027.
Building What's Next: From Resilience to Abundance
Theme & Tracks
Building What’s Next: From Resilience to Abundance invites us to look at what is already taking root across our region and ask where we can go from here.
In 2027, we’ll come together to share what’s working, learn from what isn’t, and create space for changemakers of all ages, backgrounds, experience levels to take action across our region. Together, we’ll explore what it means to build a Midwest where people and the planet have the opportunity to flourish.
Explore are 2027 Session Tracks, which interconnect areas of work that are central to Green Umbrella’s mission and to building a thriving, resilient region.
Reduce Emissions
Transforming the systems that power and move our communities is essential to building a thriving future. This track explores cleaner, more efficient energy, buildings, and transportation, along with the policies, investments, technologies, and partnerships that can accelerate the transition.
Build Resilient & Equitable Food Systems
Transforming the systems that power and move our communities is essential to building a thriving future. This track explores cleaner, more efficient energy, buildings, and transportation, along with the policies, investments, technologies, and partnerships that can accelerate the transition.
Create Thriving Greenspace
Healthy communities depend on healthy natural systems. This track explores how we can protect, restore, and expand greenspace and green infrastructure to strengthen climate resilience, support biodiversity, connect people with nature, and create healthier, more livable communities.
Support Local Communities
The future is built in communities, and communities need people, resources, knowledge, and partnerships to shape it. This track explores the leadership, funding, policy, workforce, housing, and community-based strategies that help turn climate and sustainability goals into meaningful, lasting action.
Summit Timeline
Mark your calendar with key dates!
Speaker Submissions Close
December 31, 2026
Early Bird Registration
January 4, 2027 - March 15, 2027
General Registration
March 16, 2027 - May 15, 2027
Artist and Poster Submissions Close
March 26, 2027
Community at the Summit
The issues we face affect everyone in our region and require creativity and focused solutions. That's why working together is essential.
The Midwest Sustainability Summit brings together communities and leaders from across the region to educate, network, and build on their impact. Learn about the communities we unite and how you can maximize your Summit experience.
Regional decision-makers and advocates who shape local and regional policies, extending influence beyond our cities and building partnerships for localized sustainable and equitable change.
Action teams and educators who build systems and create cultures of lasting impact, imperative research, foster strong community support, and create accessible opportunities to get involved in climate action.
City planners and agriculture stewards who build sustainable foundations that shape our communities from the soil to the boardroom.
University professors, engaged students, and youth changemakers who mobilize individuals and communities through educational resources and research.
Senior executives and experienced business leaders who shape corporate culture throughout our region.