Tickets are on Sale for the Big Thinking Summit in June in Edmonton

The Big Thinking Summit 2026 is a three-day gathering that brings together people who care about ideas that make a real difference. Hosted by the Federation for the Humanities and Social Sciences, the Summit highlights how humanities and social sciences research is helping shape policy, strengthen communities, spark creativity, and respond to some of Canada’s most urgent challenges.

Big Thinking Summit 2026 in Edmonton

This year’s theme, Inflection Point, recognizes that we’re living through a time of rapid change and uncertainty - and that the humanities and social sciences have an important role to play in helping us move forward. The Summit invites academics, policymakers, community leaders, artists, industry professionals, and others to come together to share ideas, explore pressing issues, and build collaborations that lead to meaningful action.

For 2026, there’s a special interest focus in proposals that cross disciplines and sectors, challenge traditional boundaries, and show the impact of HSS knowledge in the real world. Whether your work involves policy analysis, creative practice, community-based research, experimental methods, publishing, advocacy, or applied research outside academia, there’s a place for your perspective at the Summit.

You do not need to be affiliated with a scholarly association or a Federation member institution to participate - and registration is discounted for students. The summit will convene June 9 to 11, 2026 at Edmonton Convention Centre.