Party Conferences 2026
Join FGF at this year’s Labour and Liberal Democrat Party Conferences
Overview
This year we’ll be at both Labour and Liberal Democrat conferences. Thanks to the support of our partners, we’ll be hosting fringes thinking all about power: who holds it, how this undermines effective government, and what needs to change to make it work for the public. If the government is to drive growth, rebuild infrastructure, secure clean power and revitalise communities, it must first think more purposefully about power and how it operates. Only by shifting power towards the public can government hope to deliver real change, restore trust, and demonstrate that democratic politics can make people’s lives better.
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Liberal Democrat Party Conference
Sunday 20 September
No overall control? Cooperation and competition between progressives in the era of multiparty politics
With multiparty politics now the norm and a 2029 hung parliament possible, this LGA Liberal Democrats and FGF event asks where Lib Dems should challenge or collaborate with other parties, and how they can position themselves against the populist right.
The Refugee Convention 75 years on: retirement or renewal?
As the global consensus on refugee protection comes under strain, this event explores the Refugee Convention's continued relevance in today's connected, unstable world. Join us to consider how governments can uphold their international commitments while restoring public trust in asylum.
Labour Party Conference
Sunday 27 September
Money, Place and Purpose: Delivering clean power in every postcode
Andy Burnham assumes power at a crucial time for the clean energy agenda: needing to consider how to raise the finance needed, how to involve people and places, and how to tell a compelling political story. We bring together high profile political and sector voices to explore how clean energy can cut living costs and build stronger local economies.
The Power of the Purse: HM Treasury in focus
The Treasury sits at the heart of the UK's economic model and system of government. Yet to many, it is something of a black box; its inner workings and power dynamics a mystery. In conversation with a Treasury minister, we'll discuss how HMT decides what gets funded across Whitehall, and how it uses its power to build a stronger, fairer economy.
This event is kindly supported by Plenary.
Monday 28 September
Regulating for growth: what needs to change?
Boosting growth remains a core priority for government – but too often regulators are treated as a barrier to this. This event will explore how government can rethink its approach, empowering regulators to drive innovation through stronger internal cultures and talent, effective collaboration, and the right balance with political accountability.
This event is kindly supported by Prospect.
Power shift: Should Labour go further on devolution?
The new Prime Minister has set a clear political direction behind devolution - ‘taking power out of the centre and putting it in the hands of the people and places who can use it best’. Join us to hear from people with the insight and experience of regional government to discuss what this promise could mean in practice.
This event is kindly supported by Inner Circle.
The Future Governance Forum Labour Conference drinks reception
Kindly supported by Vanguard, this year’s reception will look ahead to the next phase of Labour government and explore how the new Labour administration can transform the state and economy to renew the nation. Please note: this event is invitation only.
Tuesday 29 September
The power of finance: backing Britain’s underinvested founders and small business leaders
Too many of Britain’s female, ethnic minority, disabled and working class entrepreneurs are ‘underinvested’: unable to access the finance needed to start or scale a business. To mark the launch of new FGF research sponsored by HSBC, this session will discuss practical policy solutions to break down barriers and unlock economic potential.
This event is kindly sponsored by HSBC.
Can Labour get immigration right?
On immigration and asylum, the new Prime Minister must address public concern without fuelling division, and offer a credible approach that is both workable and politically resonant. This joint event will explore how to build an authentic Labour approach that commands public support, and can navigate the political risks and opportunities involved.
Rebuilding Britain: public-private partnerships re-imagined for a new era
In a constrained fiscal environment, this session asks how new private finance models can help build the infrastructure the UK needs. Drawing on emerging policy, international experiences and pilots, we'll explore how public-private partnerships can be designed to deliver value for money, public benefit and long-term growth.
This event is kindly sponsored by Trowers and Hamlins.
Setting Great British Railways up for success
Rail nationalisation and the creation of GBR is one of this government's most popular policy moves.The stakes are high: GBR’s performance will be seen as indicative of wider government success or failure. This event will explore how GBR can be established as a strong, enduring institution that delivers for society and the economy.
This event is kindly sponsored by the Railway Industry Association.
From devolution to delivery: What strategic authorities need next
Labour’s English devolution agenda is set to accelerate under the new Prime Minister, which could include a new devolution deal for London. In partnership with London Councils, this session will bring together people with experience of local and regional government – in London and beyond – to explore how this could improve regional delivery.
This event is kindly sponsored by London Councils and Uber.
For enquiries, please email us at [email protected].
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Our Conference programme would not be possible without the generous support of the following organisations:
