CA’s Annual SB Impact Business Summit

Connect, innovate, and take action at SCA’s Annual Summit—bringing Santa Barbara together to build a thriving innovation ecosystem.

The 2026 SB Impact Business Summit will bring together entrepreneurs, investors, business leaders, nonprofits, academics, and community members to explore how Santa Barbara can become a stronger hub for innovation and entrepreneurship, driving positive impacts for people and the planet in our community.

The event will showcase many local companies and organizations through rapid-fire presentations and an interactive tabling session, highlighting the ideas and solutions already emerging across our region. UCSB Chancellor Dennis Assanis will deliver the keynote address on building a thriving innovation ecosystem, followed by a panel examining how investment and resources can provide the necessary support for local innovators to thrive.

Santa Barbara has many of the essential ingredients for innovation: leading research institutions, entrepreneurial talent, engaged investors, mission-driven organizations, and a community committed to sustainability. The opportunity now is to connect these assets more intentionally. By creating stronger pathways among ideas, expertise, capital, and mentorship, we can help promising local solutions move from concept to growth—while generating new businesses, quality jobs, and lasting benefits for our community and beyond. The summit is designed to turn connection into action and strengthen the relationships needed to build Santa Barbara’s innovation ecosystem together.