Introduction
Every spring, the historic city of Oxford transforms into a global hub for changemakers, innovators, and social entrepreneurs. In April 2026, this vibrant ecosystem will once again come alive through a powerful convergence of events anchored by the Skoll World Forum.
Taking place from April 21 to April 24, 2026, the Skoll World Forum is more than a conference. It is part of a broader ecosystem that includes the Marmalade Festival and The Sidebar. Together, these events create a dynamic week of dialogue, collaboration, and innovation in the global development sector.
This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about Skoll World Forum 2026, including schedule, participation options, key highlights, and how to engage with the wider Oxford event ecosystem.
What is the Skoll World Forum
The Skoll World Forum is a globally recognized convening hosted by the Skoll Foundation in partnership with the Saïd Business School at the University of Oxford.
Since its launch in 2004, the forum has played a critical role in advancing social entrepreneurship by bringing together leaders from across sectors. The event highlights innovative solutions, fosters partnerships, and strengthens the global ecosystem for social impact.
Participation in the forum is curated, meaning attendees are typically invited based on their contributions to social innovation and development.
A Vibrant Week in Oxford: More Than Just a Forum
Marmalade Festival
The Marmalade Festival, hosted by the Old Fire Station since 2012, runs alongside the Skoll World Forum and is open to everyone.
Marmalade offers a wide range of independently organized sessions including workshops, panel discussions, performances, and film screenings. It connects global conversations with local communities, creating an inclusive platform for shared learning and collaboration.
The Sidebar
Launched in 2024, The Sidebar adds a creative and community driven dimension to the week. It provides open and accessible spaces for informal dialogue, networking, and collaboration.
The Sidebar features crowd sourced discussion groups and digital tools such as People and Event Maps that help participants connect and discover opportunities. Registration is free and open to all.
Skoll World Forum 2026 Dates and Format
The Skoll World Forum 2026 will take place from April 21 to April 24, 2026, both in person in Oxford and online.
The hybrid format ensures global accessibility, allowing participants from around the world to join virtually and engage with sessions, discussions, and networking opportunities.
Detailed Schedule and Program Overview
Tuesday, April 21
Registration and connection activities begin at 12:30pm
Shared opening session at 3:00pm
Welcome reception at 4:30pm
Serendipity dinners at 6:30pm
Evening events from 8:30pm
Wednesday, April 22
Sessions and workshops from 8:00am to 4:00pm
Opening Plenary at 5:00pm
Oxford college dinners at 7:00pm
Evening events from 8:30pm
Thursday, April 23
Full day sessions from 8:00am to 4:00pm
Skoll Awards Plenary at 5:00pm
Awards reception at 6:30pm
Evening events from 8:30pm
Friday, April 24
Morning networking from 8:00am
Closing Plenary at 10:30am
Farewell lunch from 12:00pm
Networking and wrap party in the evening
Key Information Summary
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Event Name | Skoll World Forum 2026 |
| Dates | April 21 to April 24, 2026 |
| Location | Oxford, United Kingdom and online |
| Host | Skoll Foundation |
| Associated Events | Marmalade Festival, The Sidebar |
| Participation | Invitation based with open access options |
| Format | Hybrid |
| Focus Areas | Social innovation, climate, health, equity |
Key Links and How to Use Them
Skoll World Forum Main Page
https://skoll.org/skoll-world-forum/
This page provides complete information about the forum, themes, speakers, and updates.
Virtual Participation Registration
https://skoll.org/skoll-world-forum/swf2026online/
Register here to attend the Skoll World Forum 2026 online from anywhere in the world.
Frequently Asked Questions
https://skoll.org/skoll-world-forum/faq/
Find answers to common queries about participation, logistics, and access.
Delegates and Speakers Information
https://web.cvent.com/event/1e71ddc4-8253-4ac8-8092-0cf48d5fc247/websitePage:e44200cc-97b3-473c-bc4d-a0dec921d5b4
Details for invited delegates, speakers, and official participants.
Marmalade Festival Website
https://www.marmalade.io/
Browse sessions, explore the calendar, and register for open events during the forum week.
The Sidebar Platform
http://theside.bar/
Sign up for free, explore People and Event Maps, and join community discussions.
How to Participate in Skoll World Forum 2026
Invitation Based Attendance
The main forum is curated, meaning participants are selected based on their work and impact in the social sector.
Virtual Participation
Anyone can register online to access selected sessions and engage with global discussions.
Attend Marmalade Festival
Open to all, Marmalade allows participants to join workshops and community led events.
Join The Sidebar
The Sidebar provides free access to networking spaces and interactive engagement tools.
Why This Week Matters for the Development Sector
The Skoll World Forum week is one of the most influential gatherings in the global development ecosystem. It connects ideas, funding, and action in a way that accelerates real change.
By combining invitation only and open access platforms, it ensures both high level dialogue and grassroots participation.
Benefits for Students and Young Professionals
Exposure to global leaders and ideas
Access to networking and collaboration opportunities
Learning from real world case studies
Opportunities to engage without formal invitations
Tips to Maximize Your Experience
Plan your sessions in advance
Engage actively in discussions
Attend open events and side sessions
Network with intention
Follow up after the event
Speakers at Skoll World Forum 2026
The Skoll World Forum annually brings together more than 100 speakers and performers from across the world. These speakers represent diverse sectors including social entrepreneurship, policy, philanthropy, arts, and grassroots activism.
The forum highlights global issues such as economic inclusion, climate action, health systems, and human rights. It also emphasizes the role of artists and storytellers in inspiring social change.
Featured Plenarists and Performers
Some of the most prominent global voices expected at the forum include:
Noubar Afeyan Founder and CEO of Flagship Pioneering
Trevor Noah Founder of Trevor Noah Foundation
Juan Manuel Santos Nobel Peace Prize Laureate and Chair of The Elders
Ilwad Elman COO of Elman Peace and Human Rights Centre
Tarun Cherukuri Co founder and CEO of Indus Action
Kate Kallot Founder and CEO of Amini
Alaa Murabit Managing Partner at 500 Global
Madame Gandhi Artist and social advocate
Ricky Kej Grammy Award winner and UN Goodwill Ambassador
These plenary speakers bring global visibility and deep expertise across sectors, making the forum a powerful space for thought leadership.
Selected Speakers from the Global Network
The broader speaker lineup includes leaders from influential organizations worldwide. Some notable names include:
Cheryl Dorsey CEO of Echoing Green
Celina de Sola Co founder of Glasswing International
Shabana Basij-Rasikh President of SOLA
Raj Kumar President of Devex
Vivek Maru CEO of Namati
Angeline Murimirwa CEO of CAMFED
Gayatri Nair Lobo CEO of Educate Girls
Ndidi Okonkwo Nwuneli CEO of ONE Campaign
Piyush Tewari Founder of SaveLIFE Foundation
The diversity of speakers ensures a rich exchange of ideas and perspectives across regions and sectors.
Why the Speaker Lineup Matters
The Skoll World Forum is known for curating speakers who are actively driving change in their fields. The presence of Nobel laureates, global CEOs, grassroots leaders, and artists creates a unique interdisciplinary environment.
Participants gain insights not only from policy and business leaders but also from storytellers and community innovators, making the forum holistic and impactful.
Development Wala will be participating in the Skoll World Forum 2026 and the The Marmalade Festival in Oxford, UK.
The Skoll World Forum is a globally recognised convening hosted by the Skoll Foundation in partnership with Saïd Business School at the University of Oxford. It brings together global leaders, innovators, and changemakers to address the world’s most pressing social challenges.
Our founder, Kumar Preetam Puri, will represent Development Wala and Gramin Bharti on Tuesday, 21 April and Wednesday, 22 April 2026 in Oxford, United Kingdom.
Development Wala is India’s premier one-stop platform for NGOs, social enterprises, and changemakers, offering end-to-end support from registration and compliance to hiring, mentorship, and impact documentation.
Conclusion
The Skoll World Forum 2026, along with Marmalade Festival and The Sidebar, offers a unique and powerful platform for anyone interested in social impact and global development.
Whether you are attending in person, joining virtually, or participating through open platforms, this week in Oxford can be transformative for your learning, network, and career.
Take the first step by exploring the links above and becoming part of this global movement for change.
Tags: skoll world forum, marmalade festival oxford, sidebar oxford, social entrepreneurship events, global development conference, oxford events 2026, nonprofit networking, social impact careers
Check attendees list here:
Follow us and stay updated on the latest Non-Profit / social work Jobs and opportunities
Follow Kumar Preetam Puri on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kumarpreetampuri/
Development Wala LinkedIn Page: https://www.linkedin.com/company/development-wala/
📲 WhatsApp channel: https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaCxEqA0G0XoVCQyUx38
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/developmentwala_official/
Discover more from Development Wala
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.