Agents of Change

Building a Boston startup ecosystem that works for everyone.

May 5, 2026 · 8:45 AM – 1:00 PM ET Digitas · Boston, MA Free to attend

Running since 2022 · Always hits capacity — don't wait to register.

Agents of Change

This isn't just a conference.

Agents of Change is Boston's free half-day summit for founders, funders, and allies who believe that a more equitable startup ecosystem is good for everyone.

Since 2022, we've brought together the people doing the work — through honest table discussions, high-impact networking, and a fireside chat that cuts to what matters. We always fill up fast.

This isn't a women's conference. It's not a DEI checkbox. It's a room full of people who believe diversity of thought and opportunity drives economic growth — and want to do something about it.

Fireside chat 2025 Agents of Change 2025 energy Table discussions 2025 Planning committee 2025

5th

Year running

200+

Attendees

6

Discussion topics

Free

Always

The Day

What to Expect

8:45 AM

Doors open

Breakfast, name tags, and early networking

9:20 AM

Welcome

Kick-off from the planning committee

9:35 AM

Table Discussions

Small-group conversations on the topics that matter most right now

10:10 AM

Table Readouts

Highlights and takeaways shared with the full room

10:30 AM

Fireside Chat

Margaret Low, CEO of WBUR, in conversation

11:15 AM

Change Agent Award

Honoring Margaret Low, CEO of WBUR, for her impact on the ecosystem

11:40 AM

Networking Lunch

Bingo-style networking to push beyond your existing circle

2026 Discussion Topics

The Conversations We Need to Have

Each topic is led by a table host. No presentations — just real, peer-to-peer discussion with actionable takeaways.

Fundraising: The New Rules

Navigating Today's Fundraising Reality

Explore the evolving landscape — from VC shifts to creative funding solutions — and how founders are adapting to secure capital today.

Using AI to Level Up

Putting AI to Work

Practical ways founders can use AI tools to extend team capacity, boost productivity, and operate more efficiently — especially for non-technical founders.

Beyond Venture Capital

Non-Traditional Funding Sources

Grants, SBA programs, community capital, and other funding paths that don't require a warm intro to a Sand Hill Road partner.

Finding Your First 100

Customer Acquisition

Real strategies for building a customer base when you don't have a big marketing budget or brand recognition yet.

Network with Purpose

Community Building & Founder Networks

How to build and leverage your founder network for maximum impact — and why the relationships you make today compound over time.

Keeping DEI Alive

Owning Our DEI Values in Today's Climate

How to stay committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion even as public support ebbs — with practical tactics you can use right now.

Fireside Chat

Featured Speaker

Margaret Low

Margaret Low

CEO, WBUR

Margaret Low is the CEO of WBUR, Boston's NPR news station. A veteran media executive and community leader, she will join us for a fireside conversation on leadership, equity, and what it means to build institutions that serve everyone.

2026 Change Agent Award Recipient

The Team Behind It

Planning Committee

Agents of Change is made possible by a volunteer committee of Boston ecosystem leaders who give their time, networks, and energy to make this event happen every year.

Sponsors

Made Possible By

Agents of Change is free because of the generosity of sponsors who believe in a more equitable innovation economy.

Baker Tilly
Fidelity Private Shares
Digitas
HSBC Innovation Banking
Underscore VC
Glasswing Ventures
MDK Brand Management

Become a Sponsor

Sponsorship includes logo placement, a dedicated table topic, and direct access to 200+ founders, funders, and ecosystem leaders.

Get in Touch

From the Archives

Agents of Change — Through the Years

Full room Speaker Speaker and crowd Award celebration Energy in the room Agents of Change 2023 All Raise Boston Table discussions Table readouts Group photo Fireside speaker Fireside chat Agents of Change 2023 group

Don't wait — spots go fast.

Agents of Change has hit capacity every year since 2022. Register now to secure your spot.

Register Free →

May 5, 2026 · 8:45 AM · Digitas, Boston