The 2026 Summit

Wednesday 10th June 2026
ICC Belfast

Launch Coming Soon!

About the Summit

NICVA SUMMIT is Northern Ireland’s flagship event for the voluntary, community and social enterprise (VCSE) sector, bringing together the people, ideas and leadership driving social change. Taking place on Wednesday 10 June 2026 at ICC Belfast, the SUMMIT builds on the success of our inaugural event in 2024, creating a space to share learning, explore key issues and strengthen connections across the sector.

What to expect

  • Keynote sessions from influential voices and sector leaders

  • Member-led workshops and discussions sharing practical learning and innovation

  • Interactive activities and experiences showcasing the work of the sector

  • Opportunities to connect with peers, partners and policymakers

Inspire.

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Connect.

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Strenghten.

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Inspire. 〰️ Connect. 〰️ Strenghten. 〰️

Our Programme

Unlocking the Potential of Voluntary and Community Action in Northern Ireland. Our full programme information will be available here soon.

  • 09:00 – 09:45 Registration Open
    Check-in, network and visit the Exhibitor Hub – Refreshments available.

    09:45 – 09:50 Opening Remarks

    09:50 – 10:10 Opening Address
    Leadership at a Time of Change

    10:10 – 10:55 Keynote Address
    Between Crisis and Possibility – The Real State of Civil Society

    10:55 – 11:10 International Address
    Civil Society Under Pressure – Lessons from the United States

    11.10 – 11.40 Break – network and visit the Exhibitor Hub. Refreshments available.

    11:40-12:50 Engagement Hubs – Session One
    Choose from 7 facilitated interactive discussions. (Details to follow).

  • 12:50 – 13:50 Lunch - network and visit the Exhibitor Hub

    13:50 – 15:00 Engagement Hubs – Session Two
    Choose from 7 facilitated interactive discussions. (Details to follow).

    15:00 – 15:30 Break – network and visit the Exhibitor Hub. Refreshments available

    15.30 – 16.30 Panel Discussion
    From Survival to System Change – Reimagining the Role of the Voluntary and Community Sector

    16:35 – 17:05 Fireside Discussion
    Community, Change and the Role of Government (incl. Q&A)

    17:05-17:15 Closing Remarks