All conferences at the Bellagio Center need to comply with the following requirements:
Topics
The selection committee gives priority to meetings that link to the Foundation's work in basic survival needs such as food, water and housing; global health; climate and environment; urbanization; social and economic security; and whose organizers expect their meetings to generate innovative yet concrete outcomes. We also welcome applications for meetings that in other ways address the needs of and expands the opportunities for the world's poor and vulnerable communities.
Participants
A defining characteristic of Bellagio conferences is that they benefit from the perspectives of a diverse array of stakeholders and decision makers. This mix and the new-found and ongoing links among conference participants produce stronger outcomes and a higher likelihood of success in meeting conference goals.
Conference organizers are encouraged to invite relevant key figures from multiple sectors (academic, public, private, nonprofit and multilateral organizations) and from a wide geographic area who will directly contribute to the meeting's outcomes and ouputs. We encourage conference organizers to use the Bellagio Center to build new connections among participants who do not already work together on a regular basis. Conference organizers who propose a meeting addressing issues impacting the developing world should have a high percentage of people from that geographic area.
Size
Bellagio conferences are small, focused, gatherings that promote dynamic interactions. The Center operates two buildings for meetings, one that can accommodate up to 19 participants, the other, up to 23. Organizers should anticipate a meeting for 19 participants with a suggested wait-list of up to 4 in the event that a 23 participant space is available. Due to space limitations, conference organizers must manage invitations to participants very carefully. They should invite only those who they think would be most effective in helping to achieve the goals of the meeting.
Duration and Structure
Bellagio meetings typically include three full working days, with an additional day at the beginning and end for arrivals and departures, for a total of five days. Two-day meetings (total of four days reserved) are also possible. Bellagio meetings emphasize interaction between participants rather than long presentations to passive audiences. Agendas should be structured accordingly. Meetings at the Bellagio Center should be structured to promote dialogue and interaction and to avoid extensive speeches or presentations.
Single Meetings or a Series
Most conferences are one-time events, but applications part of a series of meetings are considered. However, the Foundation does not guarantee space for the full series of meetings. Each meeting in the series will be evaluated separately, with assessments of previous meetings being a key factor in the decision to host subsequent meetings.
Applications for routine or annual meetings of organizations or professional societies are not accepted.
