2026 Philadelphia Autism Project Conference!
The Philadelphia Autism Project Conference is an annual event bringing together members of the Philadelphia community to share and highlight information and resources, learn about community initiatives, and discuss experiences in supporting autistic individuals. This year’s theme explores autistic experiences of masking and its impact on identity, mental health, and well-being. Across all sessions, we will also examine how to promote acceptance and support authentic expression in schools, workplaces, healthcare, and community spaces. Below provides more information:
- Date: Tuesday, October 6, 2026
- Time: 9 am – 3 pm. Doors open at 8:30 am. Welcoming Remarks begin at 9:30 am. The day ends at 3 pm.
- Location: The Academy of Natural Sciences at 1900 Benjamin Franklin Pkwy, Philadelphia, PA 19103.
- A light breakfast, boxed lunch, and a limited number of parking vouchers will be provided.
- Sessions are typically 1 hour and 15 minutes including time for Q&A.
CALL FOR SPEAKERS
The Philadelphia Autism Project is seeking speakers for our 2026 conference! We welcome all levels of support needs and communication styles, including those who use AAC or other assistive technology.
Session topics may include:
- Autism in the workplace
- AuDHD: The overlap of ADHD and autism
- Centering voices and experiences of people of color
- Transition across the lifespan
- Aligning perspectives on independence
- Advocacy and autism
- Have an idea outside of the listed topics? We still encourage you to submit a proposal for consideration.
What we’re looking for:
- Lived Experience: Autistic individuals and family members
- Interactive formats (panels, discussions, workshops)
- Diverse voices across race, ethnicity, age, and support needs
Interested or would like to recommend someone? Please fill out our speaker interest form by Tuesday, June 30, 2026. Once submissions close, the Conference Planning Committee will review all speaker proposals. Selected speakers will be contacted in July to discuss next steps and confirm participation.
Please note: We offer compensation to all conference speakers. The exact amount may vary depending on factors such as the conference budget, session format, and other planning considerations. If you have specific compensation requirements, please include that information in the Speaker Interest Form.
We encourage early submissions as speaker slots are limited!
SPEAKER INTEREST FORM
SPEAKER INTEREST FLYER
Vision
Provide a forum to discuss best practices, tools and resources to support individuals on the spectrum, families, and communities. Strengthen support networks through information sharing and engagement with the wider Philadelphia community.
Audience
Autistic individuals, family members and caregivers, professionals, providers (such as social workers), educators, community members, employers, and anyone who wants to learn more about supporting autistic individuals and the larger community.
Educational Objectives
- List concepts, tools, and resources in supporting autistic individuals and/or their networks to plan for the future.
- Summarize the latest research and/or best practices in supporting individuals across the life span.
- Recommend additional content areas to explore for session speakers and conference planners.
If you have any questions about this event, please contact the Philadelphia Autism Project:
Phone: (215) 571-3209
Email: phillyap@drexel.edu
