Mumbai to Host BRICS Global Impact Forum 2026

Two-Day BRICS Forum in Mumbai to Bring Diplomats, Investors, Startups and Business Leaders Together

Mumbai is preparing to host the second edition of the Global Impact Forum (GIF) on September 5 and 6, just days before the 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi. The two-day event will take place at The Taj Mahal Palace and is expected to bring together around 500 delegates from business, diplomacy, academia and investment.

The forum will focus on using cultural connections, shared heritage and business partnerships to strengthen economic ties among BRICS countries. The event will also provide a platform for startups, investors and companies to explore new opportunities across international markets.

Global Impact Forum to Focus on Civilizational Legacy

The 2026 Global Impact Forum will be held under the theme “Civilizational Legacy.” This will be the forum's first edition in India and is designed to bring culture and economic cooperation closer together.

Unlike traditional business and diplomatic conferences, GIF will place strong emphasis on soft power. Discussions will explore how shared traditions, creative industries, knowledge systems and cultural exchange can support long-term international partnerships.

The timing of the forum is also significant as it will take place shortly before the 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi, giving Mumbai an opportunity to showcase its position as a major global business and financial center.

Around 500 Delegates Expected in Mumbai

The event is expected to attract about 500 high-profile participants, including diplomats, investors, corporate executives, academics, family offices and other business leaders.

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Union ministers Piyush Goyal, Raksha Khadse and Gajendra Singh Shekhawat are among the prominent names expected to attend. Other chief ministers, Union ministers and foreign diplomats are also expected at the event.

Organizers said around 50 companies from BRICS countries and the wider BRICS grouping are expected to participate.

The program will include panel discussions, workshops and cultural sessions covering areas such as traditional medicine, martial arts, classical dance, literature and indigenous heritage.

India-Russia Ties to Get a Cultural and Business Boost

India-Russia relations will be an important part of the forum, with Russian representatives highlighting the growing strength of bilateral trade and cultural cooperation.

Aleksandr Fursov, Deputy Consul General of the Russian Federation in Mumbai, said bilateral trade reached nearly $70 billion in 2024, compared with just under $64 billion in the previous year. He also pointed to opportunities in sectors such as fertilizers and agriculture.

Fursov emphasized that cultural understanding can help strengthen economic and diplomatic relations between the two countries.

Matvei Fetisov, Vice Consul for Protocol at the Russian Federation, also highlighted the long-standing partnership between India and Russia. He referred to successful joint initiatives, including the BrahMos project, while noting that cultural exchange can support stronger and more lasting relationships.

Startups and Investors to Take Center Stage

The Global Impact Forum will also have a strong focus on startups, venture capital and business networking.

Organizers said the event is designed to create practical commercial opportunities rather than focusing only on diplomatic discussions. The first day will end with a cultural Gala Night featuring Capoeira and live percussion.

The second day will include a dedicated Founders' Night, where entrepreneurs and investors can connect through pitch-based networking.

VC Grid, an investment firm under the Venture Catalyst group, is expected to present 15 to 18 high-potential startups working in areas including deep technology, healthcare, sustainable logistics, smart mobility and fintech.

Mumbai Forum Aims to Create New BRICS Business Opportunities

Janhavi Pawar, Director at AP Globale, said India and Russia share strong connections through literature, while sports can create links with Brazil and wildlife conservation and tribal culture can provide common ground with South Africa.

The organizers believe these shared interests can create new opportunities for cooperation between businesses and institutions across BRICS nations.

With culture, entrepreneurship and investment coming together under one platform, the Mumbai Global Impact Forum is expected to provide a fresh approach to international cooperation. The event also highlights Mumbai's growing role in connecting India's business community with global markets.