IDEAS WORTH SPREADING
TEDx brings the format that made TED talks a global phenomenon — short, powerful talks from people with something worth saying — to communities around the world through independently organized local events. TEDxSGF is that event, coming to Springfield, Missouri.
What is TEDx?
In the spirit of discovering and spreading ideas, TED has created a program called TEDx. TEDx is a program of local, self-organized events that bring people together to share a TED-like experience. Our event is called TEDxSGF, where x = independently organized TED event. At our TEDxSGF event, TED Talks video and live speakers will combine to spark deep discussion and connection in a small group. Speakers never pay to join a TEDx event — consideration, speaker coaching, event participation, and attendance are all provided free of charge. The TED Conference provides general guidance for the TEDx program, but individual TEDx events, including ours, are self-organized.
One day. One stage. Ideas worth spreading.
TEDxSGF is an independently organized TED event bringing the Ozarks region's thinkers, makers, and doers together for a single day of talks, connection, and locally-brewed coffee between sessions.
Date
To be announced. Sign up for updates to hear first.
Venue
To be announced.
Sessions
Program details to be announced.
Ticket
Pricing to be announced closer to the event.
Why Springfield
Springfield already has the ingredients: a growing health-care and tech sector, five colleges and universities, and a downtown culture scene most cities twice its size would envy. What's been missing is a stage where those worlds meet in one room, in front of each other. That's what TEDxSGF is for — no theme decided yet, just a commitment to bringing this city's best thinking into one day of talks.
Who it's for
Curious people from across the Ozarks — students, founders, teachers, nurses, farmers, and anyone who'd rather spend a Saturday being surprised than scrolling. No industry background required, just an hour of attention per talk.
Program
Lineup announced soon
We're still selecting this year's speakers and performers. Once the lineup is set, you'll find every name, headshot, and topic right here.
Know someone who should be on this stage? Nominate them.
Know an idea worth spreading?
We're not looking for résumés — we're looking for one clear idea, told by the person living closest to it. Nominate yourself or someone in the Ozarks doing work worth putting on a stage.
One clear idea
Not a bio, not a career overview — a single idea that changes how the audience sees something.
Told first-hand
The nominee should be the person doing the work, not someone speaking on their behalf.
Regional roots
Priority goes to ideas grown in or shaped by the Ozarks region.
New to TEDx
We favor first-time TEDx speakers over repeat circuit talkers.
The nomination form isn't live yet — check back soon or follow our socials for the announcement.
Run the day with us.
TEDxSGF runs on about 40 volunteers — no experience required, just a Saturday and a willingness to problem-solve on your feet. Volunteers get a t-shirt, meals, and a seat for any session they're not working.
- House & UshersSeating, programs, house management
- Speaker WranglingGreen room, timing, backstage cues
- HospitalityCoffee, lunch service, reception
- Production CrewLoad-in, AV support, load-out
- Photo & VideoDocumenting talks and crowd moments
Sign-ups aren't open yet — check back soon or follow our socials for the announcement.
Back an idea before it's on stage.
TEDxSGF is independently produced and will run largely on local partner support. Formal sponsorship categories and benefits are still being finalized — if you're interested in partnering, reach out and we'll follow up as soon as they're ready.
Tell us a bit about your organization and we'll reach out once sponsorship tiers are finalized.
Good to know
TEDxSGF is independently organized under a free license from TED. TED provides general guidance; the content, speakers, and production are entirely local.
Yes. With speaker permission, talks are edited and posted to our YouTube channel within a few weeks of the event.
The Gillioz Theatre is wheelchair accessible with reserved accessible seating. Contact us in advance for any specific accommodations.
Yes — self-nominations are welcome and reviewed the same way as nominations from others.