HOPE Global Forums, the world’s largest gathering dedicated to economic inclusion, financial literacy and the empowerment of underserved communities, announced today an influential lineup of confirmed speakers for its 2026 Annual Meeting, taking place December 2–3 at the Signia by Hilton in downtown Atlanta. The event will bring together thousands of leaders from business, government, technology, entertainment, and philanthropy to explore how innovation and economic progress can create greater opportunity for all.

Hosted by Operation HOPE and Co-Chaired by Operation HOPE Founder, Chairman and CEO John Hope Bryant, Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens and civil rights icon Ambassador Andrew Young, this year’s gathering will feature an extraordinary mix of influential voices and changemakers.

Confirmed speakers include:

  • Ken Chenault, Chairman and Managing Director, General Catalyst; Former Chairman and CEO, American Express

  • Reid Hoffman, Co-Founder, LinkedIn; Partner, Greylock

  • T.D. Jakes, Chairman, TDJ Enterprises

  • Michael Milken, Chairman, Milken Institute

  • Jonathan Capehart, Journalist and Television Host

  • Kelsey Grammer, Emmy Award-Winning Actor and Producer

  • Jim Clifton, Chairman, Gallup

  • Rev. Al Sharpton, Founder and President, National Action Network

  • Dallas Austin, Grammy Award-Winning Music Producer and Songwriter

  • Bill Duke, Actor, Director and Producer

  • And many more special guests to be announced!

Under the theme “Capitalism, Tech, and AI in a Human-Centric World,” the 2026 Annual Meeting will feature thought-provoking keynote conversations, panel discussions and interactive sessions examining some of the most pressing economic and societal challenges of our time. Discussions will explore the rapidly evolving impact of artificial intelligence and technology on business and the workforce, the future of capitalism, and opportunities to expand financial inclusion, entrepreneurship and economic mobility.

“Technology and AI are fundamentally changing how we live, work and participate in the economy, and we have an extraordinary opportunity to shape what comes next,” said John Hope Bryant, Founder, Chairman and CEO of Operation HOPE. “The leaders joining us at this year’s HOPE Global Forums bring diverse perspectives and experiences, but share a commitment to building a future where innovation drives opportunity and economic progress benefits everyone. We look forward to bringing these voices together for meaningful conversations that inspire action.”

Now in its 12th year in Atlanta, the Annual Meeting of the HOPE Global Forums has grown into a major global convening, welcoming more than 5,000 in-person attendees from over 30 countries annually, with millions more engaging through its global digital audience.

Registration & Sponsorship Information

The 2026 Annual Meeting of the HOPE Global Forums is open to anyone passionate about financial literacy, economic empowerment and building a more inclusive economy. To learn more about the event, view program updates and register to attend, please click here.

HGF 2026 Premier Sponsors include Cisco, Truist, Wells Fargo, Meta, Bank of America, Huntington Bank, JPMorgan Chase, Visa, and Morgan Stanley. For sponsorship inquiries, contact kevin.boucher@operationhope.org.

NOTE TO MEDIA: To request press credentials and receive media updates, click here.

About HOPE Global Forums

HOPE Global Forums, a key initiative of Operation HOPE, convenes world leaders to advance financial dignity and economic empowerment for underserved communities. Through innovative approaches to financial literacy and economic opportunity, the forum drives forward solutions that help build a future where everyone has the tools to succeed.

Media gallery

About The Author
Business Wire