55th Annual ARNOVA Conference

2026  |  Philadelphia, PA | November 19-21, 2026

The ARNOVA Annual Conference is the premier gathering for nonprofit and voluntary action researchers, drawing more than 800 scholars, educators, and practitioners from over 35 countries. The conference features paper presentations, panels, award ceremonies, pre-conference workshops, and networking events designed to advance research and build professional connections across the field.

Members receive early notice of calls for papers and discounted registration. Conference recordings from past years are available to members in the Conference Recordings archive.

Symposium on Public Policy for Nonprofits

Held annually each fall  |  Convened virtually

Co-hosted by ARNOVA, Independent Sector, and Nonprofit Policy Forum, the annual Policy Symposium brings together researchers and practice leaders to surface public policy recommendations for the nonprofit sector and philanthropy. Each symposium focuses on a timely theme and features peer-reviewed research presentations followed by open discussion.

Selected papers are considered for publication in Nonprofit Policy Forum. Recordings and summary reports from past symposia are available in the symposium archive.

ARNOVA's ten Sections and twelve Common Interest Groups host their own events throughout the year, including virtual meetings, working sessions, pre-conference workshops, and dedicated conference sessions at the Annual Conference. Events vary by group and are announced through the member portal, ARNOVA News, and ARNOVA-L.

To find events specific to your Section or CIG, log in to the member portal and navigate to your group's homepage, or contact your Section or CIG leadership directly.

ARNOVA and its Sections periodically host webinars, professional development workshops, and online learning opportunities for members at all career stages. Topics have included academic publishing, early career mentoring, methods workshops, and teaching in nonprofit studies.

Upcoming opportunities are announced via ARNOVA News and ARNOVA-L. Members are encouraged to subscribe to both to stay informed of new offerings as they are announced.

Stay Informed

The best way to stay up to date on all ARNOVA events is to become a member. Members receive monthly ARNOVA News, access to ARNOVA-L, early calls for papers, and direct communication from their Sections and CIGs.