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APPLICATIONS & OPPORTUNITIES
Festival of Ideas – “Undermined: From Coal to Code to AI”
Have an idea worth spreading? TEDx Doncaster is looking for thinkers, makers, dreamers, and doers to share their insights on transformation, creativity, and the human future. Apply to Speak
If you've got an "idea worth spreading" that you'd like to share with our audience then why not apply to speak at our upcoming events?
TED is a global phenomenon dedicated to spreading ideas worth sharing which cover almost every topic from science to business to global issues in more than 100 languages. The TEDx programme allows local people to come together and put on events with inspiring and powerful speakers.
What Are We Looking For?
Determination, tenacity, and originality. We pride ourselves on giving people from all walks of life an opportunity to share their ideas on one of the most prestigious platforms in the South West, as well as with our global community.
The other thing we always look for in our speakers is passion, but other characteristics we like to see include:
Innovative - Not only might your ideas be game-changing but we want you to deliver them in creative and unique ways, this is truly part of the TEDx philosophy.
Diversity - TEDx Doncaster is all about opening up our community, giving a voice to those who feel marginalised or underrepresented.
Authenticity - As long as your idea is based on the theme, it can be on anything you feel passionate about. You don't have to be an academic or thought-leader as long as you live and breathe your topic.
What You Get As A Speaker
Speaking at a TEDx Doncaster can be a life-changing experience, and indeed has been for a great number of our previous speakers.
As an official TEDx Doncaster speaker, we’ll give you all the support, nurturing and guidance you need on your journey to stand with confidence on the TEDx stage.
Our team will work closely with you to ensure you get the very best: Mentoring - Whether you’re an experienced speaker or nervous about the prospect, our experienced team of mentors will give you individual coaching to help you tell your story like you never have before, and leave you brimming with confidence.
Exposure - Being on stage to tell your story at TEDx Doncaster is empowering and inspiring. Our sold-out audiences are passionate about ideas so it’s a unique opportunity to showcase yourself, not only to the room but potentially to the global TED audience.
Experience - You’ll be surrounded and supported by a team of professionals who are experts putting on world-class events, giving you the platform you deserve, to shine in the spotlight.
What We Ask of You
Great speakers are the key to the success of every TEDx Doncaster event. We will support you every step of the way but in return, we ask for your passion and collaboration.
It’s important that you’re able to give some level of commitment and are able to actively engage in our process in the run-up to the main event. You’ll get invaluable time with our team and mentors but we’ll always try and make sure the schedule fits your needs, time, and experience.
Festival of Ideas – “Undermined: From Coal to Code to AI”
Join the team behind the red dot production, photography, logistics, or front of house.
Be part of Doncaster’s biggest platform for ideas.
The Festival of Ideas 2026 – “Undermined: From Coal to Code to AI” invites partners to help shape Doncaster’s next chapter, honouring its mining roots while looking ahead to a digital future.
Sponsors gain strong visibility, brand alignment, and meaningful community impact across four events, with packages ranging from Community Partner (£500) to Gold Sponsor (£3,000) offering benefits such as logo placement, programme and press features, complimentary or VIP tickets, branded welcome-pack items, exhibition space, and even the chance to announce the 2027 theme.
In-kind partnerships are also welcomed across media, production, design, catering, and youth engagement. Current partners include RedEverywhere, City of Doncaster Council, and University Campus Doncaster.
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