The Best of the Rest: What Happens at Davos
4 minute read
Each January, the serene Swiss ski town of Davos transforms into a bustling epicentre of global power and influence as it hosts the World Economic Forum (WEF). Here, the world’s most influential leaders, business executives and policymakers come together to discuss the planet’s most pressing challenges. But beyond the fortress-like conference halls of the WEF, a vibrant array of fringe events has flourished, offering alternative perspectives, networking opportunities, and even a touch of counter-culture to the global dialogue.
Under this year’s theme of “Collaboration for the Intelligent Age,” these gatherings reflect the forum’s growing emphasis on tangible conversations at the heart of conscious decision-making. Events like the Finnish Flow gathering and the CSO Awards are putting sustainable leadership in the spotlight, offering a platform for meaningful dialogue on building a better future. From impromptu talks in rustic chalets to sustainability summits hosted in converted warehouses, the fringes of Davos deliver fresh ideas and foster meaningful connections.
Here’s our curated guide to the best of the rest: the events that prove Davos is as dynamic outside the official programme as it is within.
Places to gather at Davos
Futur/io House
Sunday to Friday, Futur/io Institute is hosting an invite-only hub for sustainable leaders and innovators at a private Chalet of Schatzalp Berghotel. The house will form a reflective space away from the noise to explore the intersection of spirituality, consciousness, leadership and investment.
The Female Quotient: Equality Lounge
Running Monday to Thursday, the Equality Lounge will host intimate gatherings on diversity, equity and inclusion. Executives from Workday, Deloitte, VISA, BCG, United Nations, Salesforce, Schneider Electric and more will explore AI for equity, women’s health and inclusive leadership.
What not to miss at Davos
Monday
The PolyOpportunity Brunch
Hosted By: The House Of Beautiful Business
Where: Heimatmuseum Davos
Hosted at the charming Heimatmuseum, the “museum of the home,” this gathering will centre on an initiative to craft a counter-narrative to the polycrisis – over mulled wine and live music.
Chief Sustainability Officer Awards
Hosted By: Futur/io Institute
Where: Berghotel Schatzalp
A decade ago, the job title of Chief Sustainability Officer (CSO) was rare, but as climate risks climb the global agenda, CSOs now wield immense influence in shaping corporate strategy. Recognising this pivotal role, the CSO Awards /25 in Davos will honour the European sustainability leaders driving change.
Tuesday
Finnish Flow Gathering
Hosted By: Finnish Flow
Where: Hotel Schatslap
Finnish Flow is an event that’s been known to facilitate prominent deals, from immediate wins to long-term collaborations all whilst incorporating teachings of indigenous and spiritual leaders. This year’s Finnish Flow roundtable brings together influencers like Cherie Blair, Deepak Chopra, Mary de Wysocki, the CSO of Cisco and leaders managing billions in assets from firms like Rothschild & Co.
The AI Debate
Hosted by: Politico
Where: Ameron Hotel
Apply to attend or Register to watch online
With AI’s rapid integration into daily life flooding our newsfeeds, the need for rigorous debate has never been more vital. POLITICO’s Oxford-style debate, centred on the motion “This House believes that the only way to develop AI safely is to implement a kill switch,” offers a platform to dissect AI’s potential.
Wednesday
The Swedish Lunch
Hosted by: The Swedish Lunch
Where: Magic Mountain
In its 11th year, this lunch was created as a platform to promote the Swedish values of innovation, equality and inclusive growth by bringing together leaders across all sectors.
Leaders On Purpose Roundtable: AI for Sustainability
Hosted by: Reuters and Leaders on Purpose
Where: Grandhotel Belvédère
At Reuters Davos HQ, Reuters and Leaders On Purpose will partner to explore how generative AI is transforming the journey to net zero and setting the stage for the 2025 “Technology on Purpose”.
Thursday
Sanctuary with Deepak Chopra
Hosted By: Finnish Flow
Where: Mountain Plaza Hotel
This intimate event will blend Chopra’s insights from his book Digital Dharma – on balancing technology with human values – and a transformative workshop led by Seth Streeter, a facilitator for conscious leadership and founder and Chief Impact Officer of Mission Wealth, an organisation that champions holistic wealth management. It will be a moment to seek clarity, connection and purpose towards the end of the frenetic week of Davos.
What we dream alone remains a dream. What we dream with others can become a reality.
Rebecca Solnit
