How DC Climate Week Started
By Liz Gabriel
It started as a simple conversation. A few like-minded people began discussing the need for a space in DC where climate-focused individuals and organizations could connect, collaborate, and amplify their work. As those initial conversations grew, so did our realization that DC was uniquely positioned to play a real, pivotal role in the global climate movement. This city is home to federal agencies shaping policy, NGOs driving climate justice, cutting-edge tech companies pioneering solutions, and a growing network of impact investors ready to fund change.
The spark: testing the idea
So we decided to test it out, tapping into an existing community gathering—the monthly DC Tech Meetup—by hosting a special Climate Tech Edition in April 2024.
The response was electric: Over 300 attendees gathered to explore innovative climate startups and discuss how investment in DC’s climate sector was accelerating.
This wasn’t just an enthusiastic turnout—it was proof that our city was ready for something bigger.
From there, the momentum built. We hosted intimate dinners and roundtable discussions that brought together climate leaders, government officials, and investors who had either participated in other climate weeks or were searching for ways to bring that kind of energy to DC.
Three recurring themes emerged:
The need for a DC-specific climate event: Many DC-based climate professionals love Climate Week NYC and other Climate Weeks around the world but can’t attend these events. Plus, discussions related to DC-specific issues are generally not highlighted. A DC-based event would provide a much-needed platform for local stakeholders.
A gathering place for public and private sector collaboration: Given the city’s role as a policy epicenter, DC Climate Week could create the conditions for deeper engagement between federal agencies, local initiatives, and global climate leaders.
A true nonpartisan collaboration: This is a fractured city in a fractured time—but many stakeholders are genuinely willing and eager to find common ground to drive change.
From idea to movement
With these insights, we formed a steering committee of passionate individuals to shape what is now the first-ever DC Climate Week. One of the biggest turning points: an executive kickoff breakfast that drew nearly 80 top CEOs and C-suite leaders in the climate space from across the DC region. Their excitement and commitment cemented our dedication to launching this experience.
DC Climate Week: April 28–May 2, 2025
What started as an idea is becoming a movement. The inaugural DC Climate Week will take place over five days, featuring thematic tracks hosted across the city. The goal? To convene local, national, and global stakeholders and accelerate the conversations and solutions needed to address climate change.
Our bigger vision
DC Climate Week is designed as an open, nonpartisan platform for meaningful dialogue and action. Our volunteer-led community welcomes all perspectives and recognizes that the climate challenge requires collaboration across political, business, and grassroots spaces.
This isn’t just about hosting another event—it’s about solidifying DC’s role in the fight for climate resilience. By tapping into our unique position at the center of policy, finance, technology, and advocacy, DC can crystalize its role as a leader in the climate movement, inspiring and activating solutions far beyond its city limits.
As DC Climate Week comes to life, it will be built by the collective energy, ideas, and ambitions of those who believe in the power of this city to drive climate action forward. The foundation is set. Now, we make it happen, together.
Become a sponsor
DC Climate Week isn’t possible without the contributions of our partners and sponsors. We hope you’ll consider supporting the movement by becoming a sponsor.
Email us at DC Climate Week to learn about sponsorship opportunities.