Purpose and Goals

Climate and Sustainability Academy (CaSA) Networking and Ideation Events provide a structured setting to:

• Explore new or interdisciplinary research, innovation, and educational directions
• Identify potential collaborators and partnership opportunities
• Develop shared understanding of needs, gaps, and opportunities
• Generate actionable ideas that may inform future proposals or initiatives

Format

Each event is tailored to the goals of the convening group, with CaSA providing planning and facilitation support. Each event typically runs from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. and includes structured group activities and ample time for informal networking. A typical agenda includes:

• Lightning talks (~3 minutes per speaker) to introduce relevant expertise and areas of interest
• Structured small-group discussions using approaches such as World Café or Lotus Mapping
• Time reserved for informal networking and open discussion

Outcomes and Deliverables

Networking and Ideation Events aim to generate tangible outcomes at multiple levels:

• Individual level: Expanded professional networks and interdisciplinary learning
• Group level: Shared insights into thematic priorities and collaborative opportunities
• Convener level: A comprehensive set of workshop materials and notes to inform next steps

Planning, Logistics and Cost

Organizing a successful Networking and Ideation Event is a collaborative process between the convening group and CaSA. The current goal of the Climate and Sustainability Academy is to host 2-4 Networking and Ideation Events per year. A minimum lead time of three months is recommended to allow sufficient time to clarify objectives, coordinate logistics, and promote the event. Conveners are expected to participate in at least two planning meetings—either virtual or in-person—as well as periodic email check-ins to ensure alignment on event goals, format, and facilitation needs.

The Climate and Sustainability Academy provides support with:

• Agenda development
• Event facilitation
• Participant outreach and registration
• Pre-event communications (e.g., lightning talk guidance)
• Logistical coordination (space, catering, materials)

Space and materials should accommodate interactive, small-group work. For example, a group of 20–25 participants typically requires:

• A large meeting room with breakout space
• Printed posters (1 per 5–6 participants)
• Worksheets and handouts (1 per participant)

The Climate and Sustainability Academy provides name tags. For space reservations, catering, and other expenses (e.g., printing, pens, markers), we work collaboratively with conveners to split costs.

To co-host a Networking and Ideation Event, please complete the contact form below.