Global Interdependence Center 2026 Philadelphia and Global Programming
As our city enters into 2026, partnerships and celebrations are reaching a new level. At the forefront of this collaborative surge are the organizations dedicated to bridging local interests with global perspectives and invigorating their work to best represent Philadelphia during a year when all eyes are on our city. As a founding member of the Global Philadelphia Association as well as a close partner and fellow nonprofit, the Global Interdependence Center is rolling out a robust calendar of events – taking place in Philadelphia, around the country, and around the globe – to expand its reach and its commitment to fostering diverse discourse and collaboration during this historic year.
The Global Interdependence Center is headquartered in Philadelphia and provides neutral, nonpartisan content on issues affecting global economies to its audiences. It does so through multiple avenues–webinars, conferences, educational events, and written communications on its website–to deliver relevant news to a variety of audiences. GPA has a foundational partnership with GIC, as the organization is a keystone in the nonprofit community and instrumental in building Philadelphia’s global identity.
Founded in 1976 and historically affiliated with the University of Pennsylvania, GIC is now celebrating its 50th year in operation. The organization is seeking to further its educational efforts, increase membership and participation, and implement new strategies in delivering its messages and sustaining its mission through upcoming events.
“Our 50th Anniversary calendar of events will showcase GIC’s ability to foster neutral, nonpartisan discourse on the global economy,” explained Jill Fornito, GIC’s Executive Director and GPA board member. “We are pleased to gather thought leaders from around the world to continue having these important discussions around economic policy and practice.”
GIC has 3 major events planned to take place right here in Philadelphia. In February, GIC will host the 9th Annual Sovereign Debt Restructuring Conference in partnership with the LeBow College of Business at Drexel University, bringing together thought leaders from the city and around the globe to address current developments in global sovereign debt and debt sustainability.
Two months later, April 9th marks a significant date for the organization. The 44th Annual Monetary and Trade Conference will take place in the morning, focusing on overall relevant themes of global economies for the year. Such an event encourages constructive discourse and divulgence into specialized topics that experts – whether professors, bankers, investment strategists, business leaders, or researchers – can speak on.
Later that day, GIC is reviving its gala for the first time in 10 years in order to commemorate its 50th anniversary. The GIC 50th Anniversary Gala is not just a celebration. It is an opportunity to acknowledge those that have propelled GIC’s efforts, show Philadelphia how unique and noteworthy this organization is, and raise funds for its brand new foundation.
Launched toward the end of 2025, the GIC Foundation is establishing a financial footing for the future in order for the organization to continue its programming and expand it beyond what they offer today, as neutral and informed content delivery has never been more vital. GIC’s innovative programming and growth are large reasons as to why they have been and continue to be a key player in framing Philadelphia as a global economic leader.
This year’s international programming includes stops in the Caribbean, Europe, and Asia. GIC is conducting its Central Banking Series: Opportunities and Challenges in a Dynamic Economic Landscape, partnering with the University of the Bahamas, Banque de France, and the Fundación Rafael de Pino in Madrid, also bringing the series to Tokyo for its final stop of the year.
This conference brings GIC’s resources and fellows to global partners in order to grow the organization’s footprint and spread financial perspectives and learning. GIC partners with central banks and universities because working with such organizations allows the organization to maintain neutrality within its programming, as well as reach relevant audiences.
The Central Banking Series is a major component of GIC’s College of Central Bankers. GIC established the college as a subset of the organization in 2018 in order to invigorate education efforts. The fellows that lead the college are former leaders of world central banks that are still looking to stay involved in the conference circuit. They join as speakers and collaborators, contributing to conferences and quarterly webinars.
Today, there are 26 College of Central Bankers fellows sharing their expertise with the world, including former Presidents and CEOs of the Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia. The diverse ensemble of fellows ensures the presence of global perspectives.
In a year defined by the semiquincentennial, GIC’s 2026 programming highlights the strength of Philadelphia’s nonprofit community and its enduring role as a hub for international exchange. By fostering neutral discourse and global cooperation, GIC is ensuring that as we celebrate 250 years of American history, we are also building the foundation for a collaborative global future with Philadelphia in the midst.
As a membership organization, GIC offers free access to webinars and discounted rates for events for members, but all events are accessible to the public. For more information on the upcoming events, visit interdependence.org.
