The Carolina Ocean Alliance recognizes the importance of investing in students and Early Career Professionals who are interested in working towards community-solutions for a regenerative future. COA is proud to partner with FutureSwell to offer an exciting opportunity for student and early career communicators, creatives, and storytellers to attend The Hope Summit 2026 and be part of the collaborative storytelling process of the summit.
The Hope Summit 2026 will explore how, to create vibrant communities, we must redefine our understanding of who and what is part of a community. The need for community has never been stronger. Communities around the world are rebuilding networks of care and resilience, reconnecting people with themselves, their neighbors, the institutions that seek to serve them, and the ecosystems that support and sustain them.
Up to 25 students and Early Career Professionals will receive a sponsored Conference Pass to attend The Hope Summit 2026 Conference in person and at least an additional 25 will receive virtual-only conference passes (for both days) from October 1st to 2nd. Students and Early Career Professionals attending The Hope Summit 2026 Conference will have access to all main stage and virtual Conference panels, speakers, and workshops including the opportunity network with speakers, panelists, and experienced attendees during the Conference lunches at The Charleston Museum.
Applications will close on September 1st.
In exchange for your sponsored pass, all recipients will create a short video, blog post, podcast, or other creative expression of your experience at The Hope Summit. This can include an interview with one of the speakers or featured attendees, a deeper dive into a panel or program topic that resonated with you, profiles of organizations participating in The Hope Summit 2026 Community Festival, or a story that blends your experiences at The Hope Summit 2026 with how you are working to create a vibrant community.
