The conference intends to inspire debate and discussion, and create collaborations in research related to the area that is also known as the Third Sector, namely the space between the public and the private sector made up of non-profit and non-governmental organisations.

Topics on the agenda will include the role of religion, social movements, governance and multi-sector partnerships as well as civic participation, community development and citizenship, and the application of research-based knowledge to policy and practice.

The conference is organised jointly by the EU-funded CINEFOGFO Network of Excellence, the International Society for Third-Sector Research (ISTR) and the EMES European Research Network.