While 2025 sees relatively few conferences explicitly focused on "Beyond GDP," several notable events center on economics, responsibility, and systemic change. These conferences (and one summer-school) provide valuable opportunities to discuss transformative approaches to monetary and fiscal policy and the shift toward sustainable and equitable economic models. If you know of any additional conferences focusing on systemic economic change, please feel free to share. Below is an overview of upcoming events in 2025 related to these themes.
Date & Location: March 26–27, 2025, at the Washington Hilton in Washington, D.C.
Overview: The Just Economy Conference is a premier national event that convenes community, business, foundation, policy, and government leaders dedicated to creating an economy that delivers equitable opportunities for all Americans to build wealth and live well. The conference features keynote speakers, main stage conversations, and a diverse array of sessions and workshops designed to foster networking, idea-sharing, and critical discussions aimed at shaping a more just economic future.
Price: Early bird pricing is available:
General Admission: $800
Nonprofit: $500
NCRC Organization Member: $300
Just Economy Club Member: $400
Student/Intern: $100
Retired: $100
Registration is now open.
Website: Just Economy Conference
Wellbeing Economy Forum
Date & Location: May 8–9, 2025, at Harpa Concert Hall in Reykjavík, Iceland.
Overview: The forum will examine the shift toward wellbeing-centered economic models, focusing on policies and practices that prioritize human and planetary health. Key topics include aligning public budgets with wellbeing goals, developing alternative economic metrics, and strengthening the connections between health, prosperity, and environmental limits.
Price: ISK 15,000, including light refreshments and lunch; additional side events may have separate fees.
Website: Wellbeing Economy Forum
World Circular Economy Forum 2025
Date & Location: May 13–14, 2025, at Ibirapuera Park in São Paulo, Brazil.
Overview: The ninth edition of the World Circular Economy Forum (WCEF) will explore tropical solutions for sustainable growth, the power of the regenerative economy, and bioeconomic strategies. Key sessions will focus on the indispensable role of the production sector in driving the transition toward a circular economy. Attendance in person is by invitation only, with online participation open to everyone.
Price: Details to be announced; please check the event website for updates.
Website: WCEF 2025
EBA 2025 Annual Conference
Date & Location: June 10–12, 2025, in Nashville, Tennessee, USA.
Overview: Hosted by the Environmental Bankers Association, the conference will discuss sustainability in banking and innovative approaches to environmental and social risk management. Sessions will highlight practical tools for aligning finance with sustainable development goals.
Price: Registration details are available on the event website.
Website: EBA 2025
16th International Workshop On Cooperative And Responsible Finance For Development
Date & Location: June 19–20, 2025, at the University of Trento, Italy.
Overview: The workshop will focus on cooperative finance, ethical banking, and their roles in sustainable development. Discussions will explore new models for responsible financial practices that support community development and resilience.
Price: Participation costs are available on the event website.
Website: Euricse 2025
I8th Conference of the International Society for Ecological Economics and 11th International Degrowth Conference
Date & Location: June 24–27, 2025, in Oslo, Norway.
Overview: This combined event will explore ecological economics and degrowth strategies for addressing global environmental and social challenges. Sessions will emphasize system transformation, equity, and sustainable development.
Price: To be announced; details will be available on the conference website.
Website: ISSE Degrowth 2025
ISB Summer School
Date & Location: June 29 – July 4, 2025, in Bochum, Germany, hosted by GLS Bank.
Overview: This summer school, organized by the Institute for Social Banking, offers in-depth training on sustainable banking and finance. The 16th edition will focus on "Finance for a Regenerative Future," exploring how capital can flow toward initiatives that regenerate ecosystems and enhance social well-being.
Price: Registration details are available on the event website.
Website: ISB Summer School 2025