Why we're gathering
This is not just another reunion.
It’s a weekend for current and alumni Presidential Innovation Fellows to reconnect, share candid stories, and strengthen trust during a time of rapid change in civic tech.
We’ll gather in person to:
Witness each other’s challenges and wins
Talk honestly about the moment we are in
Build bonds across cohorts and brainstorm how to best support each other
Leave with more allies and energy for what’s ahead
What to Expect
This isn’t a conference or a networking mixer. It’s a purposeful gathering. That means:
Candid conversations: No titles, no formal intros, just people being real
Shared rituals: A Saturday picnic and hike and a Sunday closing reflection.
Playful rules: Phones down during sessions; bring one object, photo, or story from your PIF journey.
NYC magic: We’ll take full advantage of the city. That means sharing good food, heading out on the town together, and letting New York’s energy fuel our time.
For one weekend, we’ll step into an alternative world, carrying the best of PIF culture into late-night conversations, shared meals, and unexpected adventures beyond work.
Closing With Intention
We won’t just drift apart at the end. We’ll wrap with a collective reflection and a group photo, leaving each other with tangible memories, renewed energy, and allies to carry forward.
Logistics
Dates: Oct 11-12
Location: New York City
Budgeting
Approximate costs for the event will be:
Registration
A registration fee will be used to cover organization expenses for this weekend.
Housing
We are working on a group rate at a comfortable NYC hotel. The rate will be dependent on the number of PIFs who will join. Expect ~$200-$300/night.
Meals
We will coordinate venues for breakfast, lunch, and dinner so we can all be together. Expect ~$30-$50/meal on average. Drinks will raise that amount.
Special activities
Some activities will be in no-cost or low-cost settings (such as a picnic in Central Park). We are considering other activities that may have a fee (such as a Hudson River Cruise). We will solicit feedback on these events as meeting planning continues. Such events may add an additional ~$100 to the program.
Transportation
Find a way to come to NYC! We will coordinate internal transportation between events during the weekend.