Across the world, the institutions that once anchored democratic and economic life are being reshaped. Artificial intelligence is redefining decision-making, financial systems are moving faster than regulatory oversight, and digital infrastructures now mediate how value, information, and influence circulate across societies. Yet the mechanisms that ensure transparency, accountability, and shared oversight have not kept pace. The result is a growing crisis of trust.
In April 2026, The Digital Economist returns to Washington, D.C. for the second convening in its We The People series—bringing together leaders across government, industry, and civil society to examine how institutional legitimacy can be rebuilt in systems increasingly governed by algorithms, networks, and distributed intelligence. This is a design-oriented convening focused on moving beyond diagnosis toward action.
Key Discussion Areas
The objective is not simply stronger regulation—it is to restore the conditions under which trust can exist: where power is clear, decisions are traceable, and institutions are capable of serving the public interest.
This is an in-person convening with limited capacity.

9:00 AM - 5:00 PM EDT
More InfoWe begin the Executive Convening week with an intimate welcome dinner, bringing together fellows, partners, and invited leaders for an evening of connection, conversation, and community. Set at Bobby Van’s Grill, this gathering offers a relaxed and elegant setting to reconnect, meet fellow participants, and ease into the week’s engagements ahead.
Dining Experience
Guests will be served a curated 3-course dinner, accompanied by wine and juice. The restaurant offers a classic American dining experience, with thoughtfully curated options to accommodate a range of preferences, including vegan and vegetarian choices.
Weather Note
Expected weather is around 59°F with a chance of rain, so we recommend planning accordingly for travel to the venue.
What to Expect
Access
This is a curated, limited-capacity dinner as part of the Executive Retreat. Kindly RSVP to confirm your attendance.

7:00 - 9:00 PM EDT
More InfoThis is where cyber meets economics, policy, and power — a curated gathering designed to move from insight to action. Hosted by the Cyber Studio, a mission-focused initiative by The Digital Economist. This is an in-person convening with limited capacity.
Hosts-
About The Digital Economist-
Launched at Davos in 2020, The Digital Economist is a global ecosystem reimagining how economies define and deliver value—grounded in human needs, ecological integrity, and planetary stewardship. We work with cross-sector leaders, policymakers, and technologists to drive systems-level change through applied research, strategic partnerships, and transformative programs.

7:00- 9:00 PM EDT
More InfoAs part of the Executive Convening Week, participants are invited to explore one of the most significant institutions in the United States through a self-guided visit to the Supreme Court of the United States. This experience offers a unique opportunity to engage with the history, architecture, and constitutional role of the Court within U.S. governance.
Important Guidance
Check the latest updates here:
https://www.supremecourt.gov/visiting/courtroomlectures.aspx#Calendar
Courtroom Access & Lectures
Entry into the courtroom is facilitated through official Courtroom Lectures, offered on a first-come, first-served basis.
Lecture Times:
These sessions provide a concise overview of the Court’s history, functions, and procedures.
Experience Highlights
Weather Note
Expect clear skies with temperatures around 71°F, making for a comfortable visit.

10:00 AM - 3:00 PM
More InfoAs part of the Executive Convening week, participants are invited to gather for a relaxed and engaging team lunch at Busboys and Poets. This curated experience is designed to foster open dialogue, collaboration, and cultural exchange in an informal setting—offering a meaningful pause within the week’s broader convenings. This is a “The Digital Economist – We The People” self-guided experience, where attendees are encouraged to coordinate informally and participate based on individual interest. While registration for this gathering is complimentary, each attendee will be responsible for covering the cost of their own meal.
Dining Experience
Known for its socially conscious ethos, the venue offers an eclectic, globally inspired menu with a wide range of vegan and vegetarian options.This setting creates space for both intentional conversation and organic connection among participants.
Weather Note
Expect pleasant weather around 73°F, ideal for a midday gathering
What to Expect
Participation Note
This is a pay-your-own-meal experience. While there is no cost to RSVP, attendees are responsible for their individual lunch expenses.

1:00 - 3:00 PM EDT
More InfoHosted by The Digital Economist in partnership with Global Innovation Forum
In conjunction with the World Bank Group and IMF Spring Meetings 2026, The Digital Economist’s Institutional Research Network (IRN) will host a curated Cocktail Reception bringing together senior leaders across development finance, asset management, corporate strategy, and public policy.
This reception is designed as a high-trust, informal setting to extend dialogue beyond formal convenings, enabling meaningful exchange at the intersection of digital infrastructure, capital allocation, and institutional governance. As global systems are increasingly shaped by artificial intelligence, financial innovation, and complex digital ecosystems, the evening will provide space for cross-sector engagement on advancing accountability, transparency, and coordination within these evolving frameworks.
Hosted in partnership with the Global Innovation Forum, the reception will convene a select group of participants for an evening of conversation, connection, and continued collaboration during one of the most significant global policy weeks of the year.

6:00 - 9:00 PM EDT
More InfoAs part of the Executive Convening Week, participants are invited to experience Drunk Romeo & Juliet—a bold and unconventional reimagining of Shakespeare’s classic, blending theater, improvisation, and humor. Set within an intimate, speakeasy-style venue, the performance features one actor who, after a few drinks, attempts to lead the production—resulting in a highly interactive and unpredictable experience where no two shows are the same. This is a “The Digital Economist – We The People” self-guided experience, designed as an optional cultural outing for those interested in a more informal and entertaining evening.
We will convene in front of the theatre at 6:45 PM and be seated together for the duration of the performance.
While RSVP through Luma is complimentary, attendance requires purchasing an individual ticket, and each participant is responsible for covering their own ticket cost. Tickets are limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis through the official provider. Attendees should choose the mezzanine ticket level. Book your ticket here
Experience Highlights
Weather Note
Expect a pleasant evening with temperatures around 68°F and clear skies.
Participation Note
This is a self-organized, pay-your-own experience. While registration is free, each attendee must purchase their own ticket to attend.

7:00 - 9:00 PM
More InfoA curated afternoon at Stone Tower Winery. Set against a scenic vineyard landscape, this experience offers a relaxed environment for informal conversations, reflection, and community building—providing a thoughtful balance to the week’s convenings. This is a “The Digital Economist – We The People” sponsored experience, with ticket costs fully covered for confirmed participants.
Experience
Guests will have the opportunity to enjoy the winery’s offerings in a serene outdoor setting.
Weather & Attire
This is an outdoor experience, and weather conditions may shift throughout the afternoon.
What to Expect

12:00 - 5:00 PM EDT
More Info
Architecting Agency: Restoring Trust in Distributed Systems
This session frames the global crisis of institutional legitimacy in systems increasingly governed by algorithms and distributed infrastructures. It establishes the central shift from regulatory response toward the design of accountability architectures where authority, decision-making, and oversight are embedded directly into system logic.

Algorithmic Legitimacy: Traceability and the Ethics of Power
As AI systems operate as “black boxes” across public and private institutions, the challenge of ensuring accountability intensifies. This session examines how traceability, auditability, and human-centered oversight can be operationalized and identifies where existing systems fail to make decision-making processes visible, explainable, and contestable.

Synthetic Sovereignty: Protecting Identity and Data in the AI Era
The convergence of generative AI and advanced cryptographic systems is reshaping the boundaries of identity and information integrity. This session explores how institutions can defend against synthetic misinformation and deepfakes, while advancing verifiable identity frameworks and minimum standards for authentication in digital environments.






Regenerative Legacies: Capital Deployment for Common Good Infrastructure
Moving beyond extractive economic models, this session examines why capital should be directed toward systems that restore natural and social capital. It explores the role of digital architectures in verifying impact, scaling regenerative technologies, and aligning financial flows with long-term resilience and sustainability objectives.

Predictive Health vs. Data Dignity: The AI-Medical Frontier
AI-driven healthcare is advancing toward highly personalized and predictive models, yet trust remains constrained by concerns over data ownership and control. This session examines how to scale innovation while safeguarding data sovereignty, addressing structural trust gaps in health data sharing and governance.

The Global Intelligence Accord: Coordinating Cross-Border AI Rules
As AI governance frameworks diverge across jurisdictions, fragmentation creates systemic risk. This session explores pathways toward coordinated rule-making, identifies points of conflict in cross-border policy, and examines the potential for shared institutional frameworks to govern intelligent systems at a global scale.


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The D.C. Outcome: Synthesizing the Roadmap
This session synthesizes key insights from across the day, translating discussion into a coherent set of priorities and next steps for implementation. It consolidates emerging directions into a forward-looking roadmap for institutional coordination, accountability, and implementation.

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At the moment, there are 15 slots available for the Davos Delegate Package, allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. These slots will also be extended to partner organizations and outside delegates, including those who are not current or Executive Fellows with The Digital Economist. Given the high demand during Davos week, we recommend booking early, as these slots are expected to fill up quickly.
The accommodations booked by The Digital Economist are typically located 30 to 60 minutes from the Davos City Center and the main event venues. The hotel is easily accessible via a scenic train ride along the Rhaetian Railway, part of the UNESCO World Heritage route renowned for its stunning alpine landscapes and engineering beauty. This arrangement not only provides a peaceful retreat from the bustle of the Promenade but also offers a uniquely Swiss travel experience.
Absolutely! While The Digital Economist can help facilitate connections and introduce you to key contacts, you are encouraged to arrange meetings independently as well. Using digital platforms and reaching out directly to organizations or individuals you’d like to meet with is an effective way to maximize your experience.
Swiss culture is known for its formality, punctuality, and respect for personal space. Make an effort to be on time for meetings and events, and dress appropriately, typically in business attire. While English is widely spoken at all events, learning a few basic phrases in German or French can be appreciated.
The Digital Economist will be pleased to assist in securing the visa invitation letter required for a short-term Swiss Schengen Type C visa. This letter must come from either a Swiss-based organization or a European citizen inviting you to the Schengen area. If you require such a letter, please inform us no later than November 30, 2025. We strongly recommend initiating the process as early as possible, as embassies often require adequate time to review and process visa applications ahead of the Annual Meetings.
You are welcome to join The Digital Economist’s 2026 Davos Delegation and stay within our reserved hotel block for Executive Fellows, designed for convenience, colocation, and community throughout the week. All accommodations and logistics are secured well in advance, and private shuttle services will be available in the evenings following our hosted events to take delegates back to their accommodations. To confirm your place in the delegation, please contact davos@thedigitaleconomist.com no later than November 30, 2025, as spaces within the hotel block and delegation are limited and finalized well in advance
Planning is essential. As an Executive Fellow, you will receive access to The Digital Economist’s curated master list of over 200 events taking place across Davos during the week. At any given hour, you may find yourself triple-booked, underscoring the need to plan strategically. Registering early is key. We strongly recommend registering for events on an ongoing basis and for as many sessions as possible, as most gatherings in Davos are highly curated and invitation-based—organizers often handpick participants who align with their objectives. Early and broad registration maximizes your chances of being selected and ensures you don’t miss opportunities to engage in meaningful discussions. With eight years of active engagement at Davos, The Digital Economist has built deep relationships and unparalleled access across venues, communities, and leadership circles. As part of this ecosystem, Executive Fellows benefit directly from these networks, gaining entry to exclusive events, private briefings, and connections that can significantly amplify both personal and professional impact.
Yes, networking opportunities abound outside the main events. Many attendees organize private meetings, dinners, and informal gatherings to connect with other leaders. The Promenade is a central area for spontaneous encounters and networking, with a variety of pop-up venues and lounges during the week.
See more FAQs
Accommodations in Davos range from luxury hotels to more modest lodges and guesthouses. Most accommodations are booked well in advance for the week, often through multi-year contracts. If you’re booking independently, we recommend doing so as early as possible to secure availability.
Most key venues and event locations in Davos provide reliable internet access for attendees. However, if you’re staying outside of Davos, we recommend picking up a Swiss SIM card at Zurich Airport upon arrival. This will ensure you have mobile data for connectivity throughout your stay.
Navigating between events in Davos is simple and efficient, as most venues are within walking distance. You can cover the entire length of the Promenade in about 25 to 30 minutes, which is often the most reliable and efficient way to get around, especially during busy hours. There are two train stations—one at the north end and another at the south end of town—allowing you to reach the opposite end in just five minutes. Local bus services also run frequently and make multiple stops along the Promenade for those who prefer not to walk; however, they can be delayed by heavy traffic during peak times. For evening events, The Digital Economist will provide private shuttles for delegates, departing shortly after each hosted event to take attendees directly to their accommodations.
Security is extensive during the Annual Meetings, with checkpoints throughout the area, especially near the Promenade and main event venues. Be prepared to show identification frequently, and allow extra time for travel due to potential security delays. Hotel badges and other credentials are required to access secure areas, so keep them with you at all times.
Davos in January is cold, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. We recommend packing warm clothing, including layers, a heavy winter coat, gloves, scarves, and waterproof boots. Additionally, business attire is expected for most events, so plan to bring both professional and warm clothing.
Swiss public transport is widely regarded as the best in the world, and Davos is no exception, with regular, highly reliable train and bus services running throughout the day to key locations, including the Promenade. However, for evening or dinner events, private transportation becomes essential—especially for those staying outside of Davos—as as trains do not run late into the night. Exact departure times can be verified at sbb.ch, but it is generally expected that attendees joining dinner events will miss the last train out of town. If traveling by car or shuttle, please also account for potential traffic delays entering or leaving Davos from both the north and south routes, as well as time for the security checkpoint. We recommend allowing a 30–60 minute buffer when traveling to or from key meetings or events.
Yes, The Digital Economist team will organize pre-Davos virtual meetings for Executive Fellows. These sessions are designed to brief delegates on what to expect and offer tips for maximizing their Davos experience. This will give you a chance to connect with fellow attendees and start building relationships before you arrive.
The Digital Economist facilitates high-level networking with global leaders through exclusive events, roundtables, and discussions. Our support helps you build a packed schedule and ensures you have a clear view of your calendar before you depart. While registration for events requires your personal details—such as for hotel badge security checks—your week will be filled with nearly non-stop networking opportunities. Whether through The Digital Economist-hosted events, partner events, private dinners, panels, or one-on-one meetings, your Davos experience will be dynamic and engaging.