Convening Program
The Convening Program is the Doris Duke Foundation’s convening platform for mission-aligned leaders and organizations. We support intimate, multi-day gatherings that help groups surface complexity, build shared understanding, strengthen relationships and move important work forward—through a seamless residential experience grounded in place, culture and care.
The program is best suited for invite-only, outcome-oriented working gatherings, led by nonprofits, academic institutions, community-based organizations, practitioners and mission-aligned corporate stakeholders. Convenings must be noncommercial, nonpartisan and centered on public impact. Most gatherings are strongest with 18–22 participants (maximum 24) over 2–3 days (up to 4 days depending on fit and availability).
Selected conveners receive a subsidized rate and dedicated experience design support.
How it works
- Apply: Tell us your purpose, invite list profile and timing preferences
- Confirm fit: If selected, we’ll align on scope, dates and feasibility
- Design together: We partner with you to shape the flow and deliver a seamless convening experience
Costs for convenings will range.
- For convening applications of up to 25 participants lasting no more than four days applicants should expect to contribute roughly $275 per person, per day—for an expected maximum of roughly $25,000 to cover all onsite needs. This cost will be captured for you in more details if your application is successful.
Before you apply, please read the FAQs below and familiarize yourself with our convening centers, Shangri La and Duke Farms. Applications for 2026 convenings are accepted until the deadline of March 13 at 11:59 p.m. ET.
FAQs
@DDF is the Doris Duke Foundation’s initiative to support mission-aligned gatherings at our three venues—Duke Farms (NJ), Shangri La (HI), and the Doris Duke Center (NYC). We partner with organizations to host convenings and events that advance creativity, equity, and sustainability.
Eligible applicants include nonprofits, academic institutions, community-based organizations, practitioners and mission-aligned corporate stakeholders whose work advances DDF’s mission and program strategies. Events must be non-commercial, non-partisan and centered on public impact.
Both convenings and events must align clearly with the mission of the Doris Duke Foundation. Convenings are typically intimate gatherings of about 25 participants, lasting no longer than four days. Events, by contrast, are usually larger-scale, logistically complex, or involve significantly more attendees. Examples of events include conferences, public panels, large workshops, performances, film screenings or receptions. All requests require review and approval.
Apply at least 60 days in advance of your desired date. Earlier is encouraged, especially for Shangri La or peak dates.
Yes. While we subsidize venue use, partners are responsible for direct costs such as catering, A/V and materials. Convenings typically range from $25,000 to $50,000 depending on specific needs. Should your application be accepted, we will confirm the exact cost of your convening. High-impact convenings may qualify for additional subsidy.
Yes. Catering is provided through DDF-approved vendors. Alcohol service is available after 5 PM with proper permitting (typically 6–8 weeks to process).
Yes, with prior approval. A/V and hybrid services are available at all centers. Film and video documentation can be arranged, and insurance may be required for outside crews.
Generally, no. To ensure quality and safety, outside vendors or food are not permitted without written approval from DDF.
Yes. All centers meet or exceed ADA standards. We also offer interpretation, captioning, quiet rooms and nursing spaces upon request.
No. Fundraising, lobbying, political campaign activities and commercial sales are not permitted at any DDF venue.
Submissions are evaluated by DDF staff based on mission alignment, timing, feasibility and space availability. Strong proposals clearly articulate purpose, outcomes and participant alignment.
Cancellations must be made at least two weeks prior to the convening date. Deposits are non-refundable. Repeated cancellations may affect future eligibility.