In an era where the pace of change is accelerating rapidly, innovation is no longer just a competitive advantage — it’s a critical necessity for survival and growth. Whether you’re a business leader looking to stay ahead of the curve, an entrepreneur aiming to disrupt an industry, or simply someone passionate about transformative ideas, the insights and strategies shared by the world’s leading innovation speakers can be invaluable.
As we enter the homestretch of 2024, we’ve curated a list of the top 10 innovation speakers who have the unique ability to inspire, challenge, and reshape our understanding of what’s possible.
These thought leaders are not only experts in their fields but also skilled orators who can turn complex ideas into actionable insights, leaving their audiences empowered to drive change and innovation within their own organizations.
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Josh Linkner
Serial Entrepreneur & New York Times Bestselling Author
Journey & Background:
Josh Linkner is a highly accomplished entrepreneur, venture capitalist, and New York Times bestselling author who has been at the forefront of innovation for over two decades. He has founded and led five tech companies, driving over a billion dollars in sales, and has invested in over 100 startups. His extensive experience in both building and guiding companies makes him a sought-after advisor and speaker in the realms of entrepreneurship and innovation. Josh is also the author of several books on creativity and innovation, including Disciplined Dreaming and The Road to Reinvention.
Unique Perspective:
Josh Linkner’s talks are a masterclass in creative thinking and disruptive innovation. He has a unique ability to distill his extensive business experience into actionable strategies that leaders can use to foster innovation and drive growth. His presentations are filled with real-world examples, practical advice, and inspiring stories that resonate with audiences across industries. Josh challenges conventional thinking and encourages leaders to embrace creativity as a catalyst for change.
Value as a Speaker:
Josh’s dynamic and engaging speaking style, combined with his deep expertise, makes his presentations both inspirational and highly practical. He offers tools and techniques that leaders can immediately apply to spark creativity and drive innovation within their organizations. Whether you’re looking to disrupt your industry or simply improve your team’s problem-solving skills, Josh’s insights will leave you equipped and motivated to take action.
Speaker Fee Range:
Live Event: $30,000 - $50,000
Visuals and Videos:
Josh Linkner 2023 Demo Reel -
Chad E Foster
Tech Innovator & Billion-dollar Generator
Journey & Background:
Chad E Foster is a remarkable innovator and top-ranked Global Guru speaker who has turned adversity into advantage. After losing his eyesight in his early twenties, Chad went on to build a career in the technology industry where he did what Oracle said could not be done—becoming the first to create customer relationship management (CRM) software for the visually impaired, and unlocking job opportunities for hundreds of millions of blind people. He went on to become the first blind executive to graduate Harvard Business School’s Leadership Program and forged a successful career in the corporate world—directing financial strategies that led to billions in revenue, industry-leading growth, and best-in-class margins despite hyper competitive market conditions. He has led dealmaking transformation initiatives at innovative companies such as Red Hat, one of the world’s most innovative companies, recently purchased by IBM in a record-breaking $34 billion transaction—he served as the Vice President leading the team who ultimately closed that transaction. Chad’s story is one of resilience, adaptability, and the power of innovative thinking to emerge from setbacks stronger, sleeker, and resolute to succeed.
Unique Perspective:
Chad Foster’s story is a powerful example of how to turn challenges into opportunities through innovative thinking. His talks go beyond mere inspiration—they provide a unique perspective and roadmap for resilience, adaptability, and the importance of getting comfortable with discomfort to cultivate a growth mindset. Chad’s ability to entertain and connect with audiences on an emotional level, combined with his practical insights, creates an impactful and unforgettable experience that transforms audiences all over the world.
Value as a Speaker:
Chad’s presentations are a blend of inspiration and actionable strategies, making him a powerful speaker for organizations looking to innovate, disrupt, adapt, or overcome obstacles and embrace change. His story of overcoming blindness and thriving in a highly competitive environment serves as a testament to the power of innovation and perseverance. Audiences leave his sessions not only inspired but also equipped with the mindset needed to tackle their own challenges with newfound vigor.
Speaker Fee Range:
Inquire About SpeakingVisuals and Videos:
BLIND AMBITION™: CHAD FOSTER KEYNOTE SPEAKER REEL (FULL) -
Lisa Bodell
Futurist & Founder of FutureThink
Journey & Background:
Lisa Bodell is a globally recognized expert on innovation and simplicity, and the founder of FutureThink, an award-winning innovation training firm. She has dedicated her career to helping organizations eliminate complexity and embrace change, allowing them to become more agile and innovative. Lisa’s work has earned her acclaim from organizations around the world, and she is a frequent contributor to major publications such as Forbes and Harvard Business Review.
Unique Perspective:
Lisa Bodell’s approach to innovation is refreshingly practical and straightforward. She doesn’t just talk about the need for innovation—she shows organizations how to make it happen. Her sessions are filled with real-world examples and hands-on exercises that equip leaders with the tools they need to foster a culture of innovation within their organizations. Lisa’s engaging style and actionable insights make her a standout speaker who leaves audiences empowered to drive change.
Value as a Speaker:
Known for her interactive and engaging style, Lisa provides tools that leaders can immediately implement to drive innovation within their teams. Her focus on eliminating complexity resonates with organizations that are looking to streamline their processes and foster a more innovative culture. Lisa’s ability to break down complex concepts into simple, actionable steps makes her presentations not only informative but also incredibly practical.
Speaker Fee Range:
Live Event: $50,000 - $100,000
Visuals and Videos:
Kill a Stupid Rule | Top Simplification Keynote Speaker Lisa Bodell -
Peter Diamandis
Founder of XPRIZE Foundation & Singularity University
Journey & Background:
Peter Diamandis is a visionary thinker and a leading voice in the field of exponential technologies and innovation. As the founder of the XPRIZE Foundation, Peter has been at the forefront of incentivizing breakthrough innovations that address some of the world’s most pressing challenges. He is also the co-founder of Singularity University, a global learning and innovation community using exponential technologies to tackle the world’s biggest challenges. Peter’s work has earned him numerous accolades, including being named one of the “World’s 50 Greatest Leaders” by Fortune magazine.
Unique Perspective:
Peter Diamandis’s talks are nothing short of revolutionary. He challenges audiences to think beyond the status quo and to embrace the possibilities of exponential technologies. Peter’s presentations are not just about what’s happening now, but what’s coming next. His visionary insights provide a roadmap for how businesses and individuals can leverage emerging technologies to drive innovation and make a positive impact on the world.
Value as a Speaker:
Peter inspires audiences to think big and act boldly, offering a futuristic vision that’s both challenging and deeply motivating. His ability to articulate complex ideas in a way that’s accessible and actionable makes him a must-see speaker for anyone interested in the future of innovation. Peter’s talks are not only informative but also highly inspiring, leaving audiences with a sense of urgency to innovate and make a difference.
Speaker Fee Range:
Live Event: $50,000 - $100,000
Visuals and Videos:
Peter Diamandis, Innovation Speaker, Speaking Update -
Mick Ebeling
Founder of Not Impossible Labs & Social Innovator
Journey & Background:
Mick Ebeling is a social innovator and the founder of Not Impossible Labs, an organization dedicated to developing creative solutions for real-world problems. Mick’s work is driven by the belief that nothing is impossible, and his projects have helped improve the lives of countless individuals around the world. From developing technology to help paralyzed individuals communicate to creating prosthetic limbs for amputees in war-torn regions, Mick’s work exemplifies the power of innovation for social good. His efforts have earned him numerous awards, including being named one of Wired’s “50 People Who Will Change the World.”
Unique Perspective:
Mick Ebeling’s talks are a powerful blend of inspiration and innovation. He tells stories of seemingly impossible challenges that were overcome through creativity and determination, demonstrating that innovation is not just about technology but also about mindset and humanity. Mick’s presentations are not only deeply moving but also highly practical, offering insights into how anyone can use innovation to make a positive impact in the world.
Value as a Speaker:
Mick’s presentations are a testament to the power of creative thinking, encouraging audiences to use innovation for social good. His ability to connect on an emotional level while delivering practical, actionable advice makes him a standout speaker in innovation. Mick’s talks inspire audiences and equip them with the mindset and tools to tackle their own “impossible” challenges.
Speaker Fee Range:
Live Event: $30,000 - $60,000
Visuals and Videos:
Mick Ebeling - Creating a Culture of Impact and Purpose -
Erik Qualman
Digital Leadership Expert & Bestselling Author
Journey & Background:
Erik Qualman is a globally recognized expert in digital leadership and the author of several bestsellers, including Socialnomics and Digital Leader. With a career that spans over a decade, Erik has been at the forefront of the digital revolution, helping organizations and individuals understand and navigate the complexities of the digital age. His work has earned him numerous accolades, including being named a top digital influencer by Forbes and Fast Company. Erik’s insights into the intersection of technology, leadership, and innovation make him a sought-after speaker around the world.
Unique Perspective:
Erik Qualman’s presentations are a must-see for anyone looking to thrive in the digital era. He has a unique talent for making complex digital concepts accessible and actionable, helping leaders and organizations harness the power of technology to drive innovation and success. Erik’s dynamic style, combined with his deep understanding of digital trends, makes his talks both engaging and highly informative. His sessions provide a roadmap for navigating the digital landscape and leveraging it to create lasting value.
Value as a Speaker:
Erik’s ability to connect digital trends with practical business strategies makes him invaluable for organizations looking to thrive in the digital era. His presentations are filled with real-world examples and actionable insights that leaders can immediately apply to their businesses. Whether it’s social media, digital marketing, or leadership in a connected world, Erik provides the tools and knowledge needed to stay ahead in a rapidly changing environment.
Speaker Fee Range:
Live Event: $30,000 - $50,000
Visuals and Videos:
AI Expert Erik Qualman | Motivational Speaker -
Whitney Johnson
Expert on Disruptive Innovation & Personal Disruption
Journey & Background:
Whitney Johnson is a leading authority on disruptive innovation and personal disruption, concepts she has explored in her bestselling books Disrupt Yourself and Build an A-Team. With a background in equity research, where she was ranked among the top analysts by Institutional Investor, Whitney transitioned into coaching and speaking, helping leaders and organizations understand and harness the power of disruption. Her work focuses on how companies can grow by enabling their employees to disrupt themselves and their careers, fostering a culture of continuous innovation.
Unique Perspective:
Whitney Johnson’s insights into disruptive innovation are essential for any organization looking to stay competitive in today’s fast-paced environment. Her talks provide a clear and compelling framework for understanding how disruption works, both at a personal and organizational level. Whitney’s engaging style and ability to translate complex ideas into actionable strategies make her presentations both informative and inspiring. She challenges audiences to rethink their approach to innovation and empowers them to embrace change as a driver of growth.
Value as a Speaker:
Whitney’s expertise in personal and corporate disruption offers a fresh perspective on how to foster innovation from within. Her talks are filled with practical advice and real-world examples, making them highly relevant for leaders looking to drive change and development in their teams. Whitney’s ability to connect on a personal level with her audience ensures that her message resonates long after the session ends, leaving attendees equipped with the tools and mindset needed to embrace disruption.
Speaker Fee Range:
Live Event: $30,000 - $50,000
Visuals and Videos:
Whitney Johnson Keynote Speaker Reel -
Duncan Wardle
Former Head of Innovation & Creativity at Disney
Journey & Background:
Duncan Wardle is an innovation and creativity expert who spent over 25 years at The Walt Disney Company, ultimately serving as Head of Innovation & Creativity. During his tenure at Disney, Duncan developed a reputation for turning creative ideas into tangible business results. He led the team that helped launch Disney’s MagicBand and introduced a range of other innovative initiatives across the company. Now, as a keynote speaker and innovation consultant, Duncan helps organizations around the world embed a culture of innovation and creativity into their everyday processes.
Unique Perspective:
Duncan Wardle’s talks are a rare blend of inspiration and practical advice. Drawing on his extensive experience at Disney, Duncan shares the secrets behind the company’s legendary creativity and innovation. His sessions are highly interactive, often including hands-on exercises that help participants unlock their own creative potential. Duncan’s ability to make innovation fun and accessible, combined with his deep insights into how to foster a culture of creativity, makes his talks both enjoyable and impactful.
Value as a Speaker:
Duncan’s presentations are designed to ignite creativity and inspire innovation at all levels of an organization. His hands-on approach, combined with his deep expertise in creative problem-solving, ensures that audiences leave with practical tools they can apply immediately. Whether it’s fostering a more innovative culture or developing new products and services, Duncan provides the insights and strategies needed to make creativity a core part of any business.
Speaker Fee Range:
Live Event: $30,000 - $50,000
Visuals and Videos:
Duncan Wardle - Former Head Of Innovation & Creativity at Disney -
Tan Le
Founder & CEO of EMOTIV & Technology Innovator
Journey & Background:
Tan Le is a visionary entrepreneur and the founder of EMOTIV, a bioinformatics company that specializes in developing wearable technology to understand the human brain better. Her groundbreaking work in brain-computer interfaces is pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in neuroscience and technology, providing new ways to enhance cognitive performance, monitor mental health, and even control devices with thoughts. Tan’s journey from a Vietnamese refugee to a global technology leader is an inspiring testament to the power of innovation and perseverance.
Unique Perspective:
Tan Le’s talks offer a fascinating glimpse into the future of human-computer interaction and the potential of neurotechnology. Her presentations are both visionary and practical, blending cutting-edge scientific insights with real-world applications that are transforming industries from healthcare to gaming. Tan’s ability to convey complex scientific concepts in an accessible and engaging way makes her talks captivating for a wide range of audiences.
Value as a Speaker:
Tan’s cutting-edge insights into technology and her visionary approach to innovation make her a standout speaker for organizations looking to explore the future of technology. Her talks not only inspire but also provide actionable takeaways on how to harness emerging technologies to drive innovation and improve lives. Tan’s personal story of overcoming adversity adds an additional layer of inspiration, making her sessions both emotionally impactful and intellectually stimulating.
Speaker Fee Range:
Live Event: $30,000 - $50,000
Visuals and Videos:
Tan Le - Sizzle Reel -
Navi Radjou
Innovation & Leadership Advisor
Journey & Background:
Navi Radjou is a renowned innovation and leadership advisor, best known for his work on frugal innovation — a concept that emphasizes creating more value with fewer resources. His research has led to groundbreaking insights on how companies and societies can innovate sustainably and inclusively. Navi is the co-author of the influential book Jugaad Innovation and has been recognized by Thinkers50 as one of the most influential business thinkers in the world. His work spans across various sectors, from business to government, and has had a profound impact on how organizations approach innovation in resource-constrained environments.
Unique Perspective:
Navi Radjou’s talks provide a fresh perspective on innovation, particularly in the context of sustainability and resource efficiency. He challenges conventional notions of innovation by demonstrating how constraints can be turned into opportunities. Navi’s presentations are packed with real-world examples from around the globe, showing how organizations can thrive by adopting frugal innovation strategies. His insights are particularly relevant for companies looking to innovate in a rapidly changing and resource-scarce world.
Value as a Speaker:
Navi’s focus on practical, frugal innovation strategies offers audiences a new way to think about problem-solving and growth. His ability to translate complex ideas into actionable strategies makes him a valuable speaker for any organization aiming to innovate more efficiently. Navi’s talks not only inspire but also equip leaders with the tools and mindset needed to drive sustainable innovation in their own contexts.
Speaker Fee Range:
Live Event: $20,000 - $30,000
Visuals and Videos:
Navi Radjou: Creative problem-solving in the face of extreme limits
Empower Your Organization With 2024’s Top Innovation Keynote Speakers
Innovation is not just about new ideas—it’s about implementing those ideas in ways that create real value and drive progress. The speakers highlighted in this article are at the forefront of this movement, each bringing their unique expertise, insights, and perspectives. Whether it’s harnessing the power of digital transformation, driving disruptive innovation, or pushing the boundaries of technology, these thought leaders provide the inspiration and practical strategies needed to navigate the complexities of today’s world.
As you look to the future, consider how the insights from these top innovation speakers can help your organization stay ahead of the curve. Whether you’re a leader looking to inspire your team, an entrepreneur seeking fresh ideas, or simply someone passionate about innovation, these speakers offer a wealth of knowledge and experience that can empower you to turn challenges into opportunities. In 2024 and beyond, their voices will continue to shape the conversation around innovation, making them essential figures to watch and learn from.
