(Closed) TEDx applications open for Colorado Stage TEDxCSU
Deadline: March 31
TEDxCSU is currently accepting speaker and performer applications, with a theme that invites deeper, more thoughtful ideas:
Beneath the Surface
Applications close March 31, 2026. Continue reading for the application link and tips to apply.
📍 Event Overview
TEDxCSU 2026
📍 Colorado State University - Fort Collins, Colorado
🗓 Event Date: November 14, 2026
🗓 Dress Rehearsal: November 13, 2026
⏰ Application Deadline: March 31, 2026
Who This Stage Is For
TEDxCSU is open to individuals associated with Colorado State University, including:
students
faculty
staff
affiliates
This is a great opportunity if you’re already embedded in the CSU community and want to share an idea on a TEDx stage
The Theme: Beneath the Surface
This year’s theme invites speakers and performers to go deeper than the obvious and reveal what is often overlooked.
Beneath the Surface focuses on:
hidden truths
untold stories
deeper systems shaping our world
complexities in society, technology, and identity
Speakers vs. Performers
TEDxCSU is accepting both:
Speakers
Present ideas through research, stories, lived experience, or collective insight.
Performers
Communicate ideas through creative expression (dance, music, art, etc.).
Speaker Commitment
TEDxCSU requires a strong time commitment if selected.
Speakers must be available for:
monthly in-person coaching sessions (2–3 hours, increasing closer to the event)
test audiences and rehearsals
dress rehearsal on November 13
full event day on November 14
This is a more hands-on preparation process than some TEDx stages, so make sure it aligns with your schedule.
Strategic Tip for This Theme
“Beneath the Surface” is a powerful theme — but it can easily become vague if not grounded.
A strong way to approach it:
What do people think is true — and what’s actually happening underneath?
Example:
“Most people think burnout is caused by overwork. But research shows it’s often driven by a lack of control and meaning — something happening beneath the surface of our jobs.”
The more specific and concrete your insight, the stronger your application will be.
How to Apply
You’ll need to provide:
a short background and why you’re qualified
a 200-word idea worth spreading
what makes your idea unique (especially if similar talks exist)
how your idea connects to the theme
a 2-minute video explaining your idea
You may also be invited to a Zoom interview if selected as a finalist.
Speaker / Performer application: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeqwtkVtGfO5KO1mpWoLE37GnWOGAAUCCNS6LJMXBVUvKKMzw/viewform
Additional information: https://tedxcsu.com/
Deadline: March 31, 2026
Need Help With Your Application?
Book a 1:1 Application Strategy Session and we will do a deep dive into your specific idea and optimize your application before submission.
Don’t stress, you got this!
Geleen Antonio