Wired for Change Conference

February 16, 2011

On Feb. 16, 2011, social innovators, technologists, entrepreneurs and philanthropists gather at the Ford Foundation to take on the greatest challenge of our time: How to create an innovative and equitable digital future.

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ABOUT THE SESSIONS

Session 1: Will Technology’s Arc Bend Toward Justice?
Many believe that technology is driving economic and social opportunity for all—a flattening of the world. Others think the potential of technology for social good is in jeopardy. This opening discussion explores what’s at risk and why, and the role philanthropy can play in ensuring that the arc of technology does indeed bend toward justice. A conversation with Ben Jealous, Robin Chase, Yvette Alberdingk Thijm and Tim Berners-Lee, moderated by Omar Wasow.

Special Guest Speaker: President Bill Clinton
What is the role of technology in social change? In poor countries it is institution building, while in rich countries it is institutional reform. Technology is ready made to help the public, private and civil society sectors harness technology to deal with inequality and instability, and promote sustainability. Thoughts from a world leader who is engaged—both in the halls of power and on the frontlines—in some of the most pressing global issues of our time.

Session 2: Dispatches from the Wired World: Technology for Social Good
What are the best examples of impact from those working at the intersection of technology and social justice? A dynamic visit to the new frontlines of social change to explore what philanthropy can learn—and what it can encourage. John Palfrey moderates this discussion with James Rucker, Juliana Rotich, John Maeda and Jake Shapiro.

Session 3: May the Best Band Win: How the Open Internet Helped Steamroll the Music Industry’s ’Level Playing Field’
Ira Glass of “This American Life” interviews lead singer Damian Kulash of the Grammy-winning band OK Go to examine the ways that free expression, creativity and entrepreneurship are blending online.

Session 4: Whose Internet is it Anyway?
Three visionaries of the offline and online worlds look at the broad range of change on the Web. How is the Internet transforming law, politics and creativity, and what does philanthropy need to do to keep up? A dialogue between Spike Lee, Arianna Huffington and Anthony Romero, hosted by Michel Martin.

Session 5: Hacking Our Way Back to Democracy
Unseen to most of us, the platforms that once promised so much interconnectivity are gradually being watched, walled and fragmented. How will freedom of expression survive the digital transition? What do philanthropists need to know in order to amplify voices of dissent while keeping their grantees safe? Brett Solomon, Solana Larsen, John Palfrey and Duy Hoang share their thoughts with Ethan Zuckerman.

Session 6: Navigating the Global Marketplace Online
Recent studies show the U.S. broadband infrastructure is slower and more expensive than that of many other nations. How can we compete in a wired world, and what is philanthropy’s role in ensuring that we remain open for business and innovation? Walt Mossberg leads this discussion with Susan Crawford, Fred Wilson, Yochai Benkler and Elana Berkowitz.

Session 7: Are We Wired for Change? A Conversation with Philanthropic Leaders
Whatever their fields and areas of focus, the ability of foundations to have impact is increasingly dependent on how well they adapt to the wired world. In what ways does philanthropy need to transform itself to stay relevant? Three leaders discuss strategies for reinvention and renewal. Luis Ubiñas, Alfred Spector and Risa Lavizzo-Mourey in conversation with Stephanie Strom.

ABOUT THE PANELISTS