Policy & Advocacy
We are advancing evidence-based policy to enact changes in the education system and the workforce.
Legislative Summit 2026
At a Glance
Join us for Jobs for the Future’s inaugural Legislative Summit at Horizons 2026 to gain critical insights and direct access to influence change.Shape the Future of Workforce and Education Policy
The federal policy landscape is rapidly changing, impacting learning, work, and economic advancement opportunities. Join us for Jobs for the Future’s inaugural Legislative Summit at Horizons 2026 to gain critical insights and direct access to influence change.
During the Legislative Summit, at the Marriott Marquis Washington DC, July 13-14, and on Capitol Hill, July 15, we’ll advance a federal policy agenda that aims to transform the U.S. education and workforce systems to ensure there are No Dead Ends to economic opportunity in America. Our agenda seeks to break down barriers to quality jobs and drive economic success for people, businesses, and communities.
At JFF, we take pride in elevating field-leading practice in our conversations with policymakers. By submitting your application to participate in the Legislative Summit, you will be able to lend your voice and expertise to urgent policy conversations in solidarity with field leaders from your state and across the nation.
Make the most of your Horizons experience in DC by applying to the Legislative Summit today!
What You’ll Gain
- A platform to influence national policy. Meet with congressional offices to share insights grounded in practice.
- A clearer view of the federal landscape. Understand emerging issues in education, workforce development, and economic mobility.
- Tools to communicate your impact. Receive preparation and support to engage confidently in policy conversations.
- Connections with leaders in your state. Work with peers to prepare for Capitol Hill meetings.
- An enhanced Horizons experience. Participate in exclusive policy programming and a Capitol Hill reception.
Explore the Agenda
Monday, July 13, Marriott Marquis Washington DC
- Kickoff, breakfast, and orientation
- Afternoon policy and advocacy workshop exclusive to Legislative Summit attendees
Tuesday, July 14, Marriott Marquis Washington DC
- Policy and advocacy strand of sessions during the breakout periods of Horizons
- Invite-only evening reception on Capitol Hill
Wednesday, July 15, Capitol Hill
- Breakfast meeting on Capitol Hill with congressional staff
- Constituent meetings with congressional offices organized by JFF
How to Apply
The Legislative Summit has limited capacity. To be considered, applicants must complete the brief questionnaire inside the Horizons registration portal.
- Register for Horizons 2026 and pay the Horizons registration fee.
- Answer the three-part Legislative Summit questionnaire
- Check the box affirming your commitment to attend the entire Legislative Summit and pay the additional $100 Legislative Summit fee if accepted
Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis in tandem with Horizons registration. Demand is high and space is limited. Accepted applicants must pay the $100 Legislative Summit fee within ten business days to confirm their spot. JFF does not anticipate considering applications received after May 15.
Legislative Summit attendees must also be paid registrants of JFF’s Horizons Summit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Learn more about eligibility, logistics, state-team assignments, notification timelines, and the federal priorities that will shape the 2026 Legislative Summit.
What policy issues will be discussed at the Legislative Summit and during meetings on Capitol Hill?
JFF will set priorities closer to the 2026 Legislative Summit. We anticipate that the topics will cover timely and pertinent issues across education and workforce development that expand access to quality jobs and ensure there are “no dead ends” on pathways to economic advancement for workers and learners.
Who should apply to participate in the Legislative Summit?
An effective participant in the Legislative Summit has expertise and experience in education and workforce development and can represent their organization to convey perspectives and priorities with policymakers. JFF encourages applicants involved in business and industry, education and workforce programs, and wraparound service delivery; who serve in intermediary functions or at the civic level; or are students or workers. We do not expect Legislative Summit participants to have deep expertise in policy or to be seasoned advocates or lobbyists. All we ask is that participants have an interest in deepening their knowledge and engagement in policymaking and have a desire to join forces with JFF and peers across the nation to champion policy solutions.
How is JFF deciding who to accept for the Legislative Summit?
JFF is making determinations for Legislative Summit participation based on several criteria designed to ensure broad representation across the learn and work ecosystem. We are taking into consideration types of stakeholders and organizations, roles, areas of expertise, and leadership, and alignment to JFF’s policy and advocacy goals as expressed in the Legislative Summit questionnaire. JFF is capping the number of participants per organization at two. We advise interested applicants to coordinate internally. State of residence is a factor; JFF is grouping Legislative Summit participants into state-based teams, which will meet with their congressional delegations on Wednesday, July 15. All participants will be assigned to a state team and expected to participate in the meetings on Capitol Hill on July 15.
Is JFF forming state-based teams for all 50 states?
No. Due to space and logistical constraints, JFF is fielding a select number of state-based teams, with a focus on congressional delegations and offices that influence education and workforce policy and funding decisions. JFF has not yet confirmed our target states, so we encourage all interested people to apply to participate in the Legislative Summit.
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