Share your idea.

Here is a checklist of things we’re specifically looking for in speaker applications:

1. You’re a credentialed expert or highly experienced in the field relating to your topic.
2. You have a new idea in your field that few know about, or a new take on an old idea.
3. You have a specific action or actions you’d like your audience to undertake.
4. You have the required time available to dedicate to developing your talk with our team.
5. You’re passionate about TED.

If you have all of those characteristics, then by all means apply and we may select you to speak at TEDxWinnipeg. Be sure to do so before applications close.

What does TEDxWinnipeg expect from its speakers?

First and foremost, as a celebration of ideas, we want to see you bring yours. Remember, TEDx talks aim to be tight, bright, and full of passion. Your TEDx presentation can be an absolute maximum of 18 minutes and preferably much shorter: long enough to say something of significance, but short enough to hold everyone’s attention. While those few minutes may be shorter than you’re used to, TEDx events have proven that a carefully prepared talk of this length can have astonishing impact. See TED.com for examples.

Where else will my TEDxWinnipeg talk be seen?

All TEDxWinnipeg talks will be live-streamed online during the event to an audience of thousands. Even better, after the event is over your presentation will be posted online on the official TEDxTalks YouTube channel. It could even be featured on TED.com itself, where videos routinely receive hundreds of thousands or even millions of viewers. All talks will be recorded at TV production quality. If you’re still new to the TED experience, here are a few talks worth checking out to see what we mean.

How do I become a TEDx speaker?

Read all the information on this page, then scroll to the bottom. Applications close at midnight, November 27, 2026.

Are there any other rules for TEDxWinnipeg talks?

As a TED offshoot, TEDx events follow the official TED speaker rules. We do not accept talks that are political, religious or commercial in nature — no “selling from the stage,” please — and there is strict enforcement of the clock. If you accept our invitation, we will take you through a comprehensive coaching process on how to tailor and deliver the perfect talk for our audience. TED has never paid speakers to appear, but has always committed to creating an experience that’s tremendously fulfilling and beneficial on all sides, and as a TEDx event we plan to do the same.

Even though you may have delivered 10 or 100 or even 1000 presentations, this one is different. TED Talks are not standard presentations — they are performances, stories or experiences. Do not think of TEDx as a typical conference; it is much more like theatre.

TEDxWinnipeg prioritizes new voices and first-time speakers. Applicants who have previously spoken at TEDxWinnipeg may be considered lower priority in order to make room for new perspectives.

At this time, we accept speaker applications only from individuals who live or work in the Winnipeg area. If you’re unsure whether you qualify, please contact us before applying.

What is TEDxWinnipeg looking for?

We look for speakers who inspire others with their “Idea Worth Spreading.” Amazing, funny, jaw-dropping or beautiful are some of the characteristics we desire. Speakers should be persuasive, ingenious and informative. Speakers should be ready to deliver the most awesome speech they have ever given. The speakers we need are those who have done something incredible or discovered something astonishing — something they can give to each and every member of our audience. Something the audience can carry home and use to change the world in their own way.

Remember, your talk should not only be a story worth telling, but must also have an idea worth spreading. A deep passion and dedication to a cause, a concept or a journey is within every TEDx speaker. The ideal speaker changes the world around them and will change you as well.

The Speaker Journey

Being selected as a TEDxWinnipeg speaker is a wonderful opportunity — and a meaningful commitment.

Over approximately five months, each speaker works with our team to shape their idea, develop a script, rehearse, memorize, and prepare for the stage. This includes support with storytelling, voice, presence, direction, blocking, and the many details that help turn a strong idea into a memorable live talk.

By accepting a speaker invitation, you are committing to take part fully in this process, including attending scheduled sessions, preparing between meetings, being open to feedback, and working respectfully with the TEDxWinnipeg team and fellow speakers. All selected speakers are also required to review and sign our Speaker Code of Conduct before participating.

You will be guided by theatrical professionals, experienced speaker coaches, and the TEDxWinnipeg team throughout the process. Our goal is to help you sound like the best version of yourself — clear, confident, and ready to share your idea with the audience.

It takes time, energy, and openness, but speakers often find the journey as rewarding as the event itself.

Applications close Nov 27, 2026 at midnight

Applications to speak at TEDxWinnipeg 2027 will open soon

Thank you for your interest. Speaker applications are not yet open for TEDxWinnipeg 2027. Check back soon for details on how to apply.