The Top 10 CSR Events to Attend This Year

Embracing corporate social responsibility (CSR) is vital for companies to demonstrate their commitment to ethical practices and their engagement with the communities they serve. For CSR professionals, nonprofit organizations and enthusiastic individuals, attending top CSR events is an excellent opportunity to strengthen your skills and grow your impact. These conferences offer a platform for networking, staying on trend and acquiring essential skills required to excel in the realm of social impact.

Here are our picks for the top 10 CSR events you should attend in 2025

1. GLOBAL CSR & ESG SUMMIT & AWARDS™

The 17^th Annual Global CSR & ESG Summit & Awards™, a leading platform in sustainability thought leadership, is set for February 26–27, 2025, in Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam. This year, the event will gather finance, industry and sustainability leaders to develop solutions for a sustainable future. It will explore how businesses can achieve both impact and profit, moving beyond compliance to create value through sustainability.

2. ANNUAL DIVERSITY & LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE

The 21^st Annual Diversity & Leadership Conference is set to offer a fully virtual experience with a lineup of globally recognized speakers, including Oprah Winfrey. These experts will share their insights on integrating diverse aspects of inclusion and diversity, providing valuable takeaways for both personal and professional development. The conference begins with National DEI Training Week, March 11–13, followed by panel discussions and workshops April 7–10.

3. SXSW

SXSW is an annual gathering of global innovators exploring cutting-edge ideas, sparking new passions and connecting with others interested in shaping the future. The upcoming conference, scheduled for March 7–15, 2025, promises an array of sessions covering key advancements in technology, film, culture and music, offering a diverse and enriching experience for all attendees.

4. ACCP ANNUAL CONFERENCE

The ACCP Annual Conference is the premier event for corporate social impact professionals to connect, learn from leaders and experts, and share best practices. The action-oriented program provides tactical guidance, fresh ideas and case studies, equipping attendees to navigate today’s complex landscape. While details about this year’s conference won’t be available until April 1, ACCP has published dates and location: September 15–17, 2025, in Atlanta.

5. RESPONSIBLE BUSINESS 2025 ANNUAL CONFERENCE

Be a part of the esteemed Responsible Business 2025 Annual Conference, taking place from November 11-14, at the Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center in National Harbor, Maryland. This combined event for RBA and RMI members, non-member companies and other stakeholders features plenary and breakout sessions on critical labor and environmental issues across the value chain, followed by training and partner sessions.

6. THE INTERNATIONAL CORPORATE CITIZENSHIP CONFERENCE

For nearly 40 years, the Boston College Center for Corporate Citizenship’s International Corporate Citizenship Conference has convened hundreds of global CSR professionals to learn, share and network. Unique among CSR events, this conference focuses exclusively on corporate social responsibility, addressing its specific challenges, best practices and opportunities, without the presence of vendors or nonprofits. This year’s conference will take place from April 6–8, 2025, also at the Gaylord National Resort in National Harbor, Maryland.

7. ENGAGE FOR GOOD CONFERENCE

For over 20 years, the Engage for Good Conference has been the leading event for corporate social impact, uniting business leaders, nonprofit and corporate practitioners, and experts to explore partnerships that benefit both cause and business. This year’s event will take place from April 22–24 in Palm Springs. This conference is an excellent way to develop practical skills, hear inspiring keynotes on cutting-edge ideas, explore emerging trends in CSR, DEI and ESG, and network with those who can elevate your impact.

8. REUTERS RESPONSIBLE BUSINESS EUROPE SUMMIT

Reuters Events: Sustainability Reporting Europe 2025 is the premier event for shaping corporate sustainability reporting strategies in the face of increasing regulatory requirements like CSRD. Join 300+ sustainability, finance and legal practitioners to gain trusted insights and connections to inform your reporting strategy. With 18 years of experience, this event provides practical guidance for meeting the demands of regulated reporting in 2025 and beyond. Based on attendee feedback, the 2025 agenda prioritizes case studies, workshops, industry-focused discussions and valuable engagements with solution providers. This year’s conference is set for June 10–11 in London.

9. SUSTAINABLE BRANDS

The female-founded Public Benefit Corporation, Sustainable Brands (SB), has united a community of optimists dedicated to reshaping the future of commerce for the last 17 years. SB is a hub for purpose-driven, credible and authentic business and brand leaders to learn, find inspiration and collaborate on innovative ideas that deliver sustainable value through environmental and social impact. This year’s event, from October 13–16, 2025, will take place in San Diego.

10. THE POINTS OF LIGHT CONFERENCE

The Points of Light Conference will take place on June 3–6, 2025, in New Orleans. Join NGO, corporate, education, government and civic leaders committed to increasing volunteering and civic engagement around the world through cutting-edge strategies, cross-sector solutions, global conversations and a bold commitment to strengthening communities. From educational workshops to engaging leadership dialogues to numerous networking opportunities, you’ll want to be a part of this change-driving experience.