NextBillion - A WDI Publication

Let’s come together to accelerate innovative solutions to the world’s most pressing problems

Overview

In the spirit of collective action, we annually convene our growing network to collaborate on social change.
The Forum shines a spotlight on some of the most promising solutions and impactful social innovations and connects leaders who are driving social progress around the world. Attendance is curated by the Skoll Foundation team, with free virtual participation open to everyone.

The 2025 Skoll World Forum took place April 1–4 in Oxford, UK and online. Together, we explored opportunities to unite and drive enduring change.

20+
years of events
Since 2004, we’ve gathered thousands of delegates from more than 100 countries.

100+
speakers annually
Each year, our team curates dozens of speakers who reflect a range of global voices and experiences. Explore past names here.

Explore the Program
In 2025, we learned from 100+ speakers from across the globe alongside inspiring performances by artists and activists. Explore the program through session and plenary recordings.

Review the Delegate Guide
Forum week is energizing, connective, and full of opportunity. If you’re attending the Forum in Oxford, review this toolkit for making the most of your time.

Past Speakers & Performers
The Forum program spans global issues such as economic inclusion, climate action, health, human rights, racial justice, gender equity, and more. Past speakers include Jim Yong Kim, Malala Yousafzai, Muhammad Yunus, Maria Ressa, Mary Robinson, Jacinda Ardern, Jimmy Carter, George and Amal Clooney, Ava DuVernay, Archbishop Desmond Tutu, Kofi Annan, Bono, Al Fore, and Stacey Abrams.

Each year, we also highlight the role of artists and storytellers in inspiring and driving social change. We recently celebrated onstage with Chaka Khan, Nile Rodgers, Peter Gabriel, Annie Lennox, Run DMC, Luis Fonsi, Juanes, Michael Franti, Angelique Kidjo, Baaba Maal, Amadou & Mariam, Anna Deavere Smith, and Aloe Blacc.

ABOUT THE EVENT
The ARE Energy Access Investment Forum (EAIF) is the top annual investment event, fostering partnerships for the purpose of renewable electrification, including energy access, productive use, commercial & industrial uses of power and the green energy transition.

With a track-record since 2016, ARE aims to mobilise 500 people in-person and over 1,000 people virtually for a total of more than 1,500 participants. The Forum will have interpretation in French and English.

EAIF 2026 is organised by the Alliance for Rural Electrification (ARE), and supported by GET.invest, a leading European programme that mobilises investment in clean energy, co-funded by the European Union, Germany, Norway, the Netherlands, Sweden and Austria.

With the patronage of the Ministry of Energy and Petroleum of Kenya, this special EAIF edition will bring together private and public investors, industry leaders from both the energy and related sectors, utilities and government officials, for an exclusive EAIF experience.