CDA CONVENTION ‘26 July 17–19 –– D.C.
College Democrats of America is bringing 500+ student organizers from across the country to Washington, DC for a weekend of training, strategy, elections, and mobilization ahead of a critical election cycle.
We can run convention. The baseline cost to host CDA Convention 2026 is about $32,000 roughly ~$65 per attendee: covering core needs like venue, AV, materials, and programming. But the real barrier for students is travel and direct support. CDA has already invested about $6,000 in travel stipends and roughly $4,000 directly into chapters, and we are working to scale that support so more young organizers can be in the room. There are students ready to do this work who simply cannot afford to get to Washington, DC. Your contribution helps close that gap.
WHY THIS CONVENTION MATTERS:
getting students there
is the hard part…
Trainings & Workshops
Students will build practical skills in field, communications, fundraising, digital organizing, coalition work, and campaign strategy.National Strategy
Chapter leaders and state federation officers will come together to plan for the fights ahead and prepare for a critical election cycle.Community & Movement Building
Convention brings student organizers into the same room to build relationships, share lessons, and strengthen the future of Democratic politics.
What Students Will Do:
A weekend built for organizers
College Democrats Chapter Leaders
State Federation Officers
Campus Organizers and Volunteers
Students Interested in Starting or Rechartering a Chapter
Democratic Campaign, Party, Labor, and Nonprofit Partners
Alumni and Supporters Investing in Youth Organizing
SHOULD I GO?:
WHO SHOULD ATTEND?
1. When is CDA Convention 2026?
CDA Convention 2026 will take place July 17–19, 2026 in Washington, DC.
2. How many students are expected to attend?
We are preparing to bring together more than 500 student organizers from across the country.
3. What does a donation support?
Donations help cover convention costs, travel stipends, chapter support, materials, and programming for student organizers.
4. Can organizations sponsor convention?
Yes. Sponsorship packages begin at $500 and help expand access for students and chapters.
5. How do I get updates?
Subscribe for updates to receive registration announcements, schedule information, speaker updates, and ways to support student organizers.
6. Will travel/lodging be covered by CDA?
Delegates will get priority access to a grant for travel stipends, with any remaining funds being given out dependent on state federation representation/need, chapter representation/need.
FAQ:
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
SPONSOR: CDA Convention 2026
Luminary | $30,000
15 tickets to all CDA Convention programming 15 tickets to VIP reception Recognition in two individual social media posts VIP reception branding recognition Recognition from the podium during keynote programming Full-page ad in convention programming 3-minute video during keynote programming Name and logo on sponsor board | Luminary level Listed on CDA website | Luminary level Letter of thanks from CDA President.
Champion | $20,000
10 tickets to all CDA Convention programming 5 tickets to VIP reception Recognition in individual social media post Recognition from the podium during keynote programming 1-minute video during keynote programming Full-page ad in convention packet Name and logo on sponsor board | Champion level Listed on CDA website | Champion level Letter of thanks from CDA President.
Visionary | $15,000
8 tickets to all CDA Convention programming 8 tickets to VIP reception Recognition in individual social media post Recognition from the podium during keynote programming Half-page ad in convention packet Name and logo on sponsor board | Visionary level Listed on CDA website | Visionary level Letter of thanks from CDA President.
Sponsorship Levels
Mobilizer | $10,000
5 tickets to all CDA Convention programming 5 tickets to VIP reception Recognition in group social media post | Mobilizer level Recognition from the podium during keynote programming Name and logo on sponsor board — Mobilizer level Listed on CDA website | Mobilizer level Letter of thanks from CDA President.
Defender | $5,000
2 tickets to all CDA Convention programming 2 tickets to VIP reception Recognition in individual social media post | Defender level Listed on CDA website | Defender level Letter of thanks from CDA President.
Ally | $1,000
2 tickets to all CDA Convention programming 2 tickets to VIP reception Recognition in group social media post | Ally level Listed on CDA website | Ally level Letter of thanks from CDA President.
Friend | $500
1 ticket to all CDA Convention programming 1 ticket to VIP reception Recognition in group social media post | Friend level Listed on CDA website | Friend level Letter of thanks from CDA President.
