TEDxHarvardSquare is accepting speaker applications for its 2027 flagship event in Cambridge, Massachusetts.
And they have a great theme!
“Against Entropy” is about refusing to let the things that matter quietly erode. The organizers want ideas that challenge assumptions we have stopped questioning, restore something that is being lost, or help us build something that can endure.
Applications close August 31, 2026.
No residency or Harvard-affiliation requirement is stated. The organizers invite applicants from Cambridge and beyond.
TEDxHarvardSquare
Location: Cambridge, Massachusetts
Event Date: February 20, 2027
Mandatory Dress Rehearsal: February 19, 2027
Application Deadline: August 31, 2026
Left alone, things tend to move toward disorder. The same can happen to trust, truth, institutions, relationships, communities, and the systems we depend on.
TEDxHarvardSquare describes being “against entropy” as refusing that drift. It means recognizing what is being lost, questioning what we have accepted as inevitable, and choosing to build or defend something that matters.
The organizers are looking for rebels, creators, trailblazers, and people willing to ask uncomfortable questions.
They want an idea that does at least one of the following:
Challenges an assumption we have stopped examining
Restores something that is quietly being lost
Resists complacency or decline
Builds something designed to endure
Questions who truly benefits from the systems or technologies we create
This opportunity could be a strong fit for researchers, educators, artists, builders, community leaders, scientists, healthcare professionals, founders, advocates, and other experts with an original, evidence-supported idea.
The event’s broader community focuses on conversations around technology, health, climate, creativity, and human potential. Its featured areas include women’s health, mental health, health equity, social impact, climate action, AI ethics, biotech innovation, financial inclusion, youth empowerment, and digital futures. You can learn more about the community on the official TEDxHarvardSquare website.
The application does not state a geographic eligibility restriction. However, applicants must be able to attend the event and dress rehearsal in Cambridge in person.
Selected speakers must:
Attend the event on February 20, 2027
Attend the mandatory dress rehearsal on February 19
Participate in a 10-week speaker coaching process
Commit approximately 3–5 hours per week during those 10 weeks
Submit an original, research-backed proposal
TEDxHarvardSquare describes itself as a Cambridge-based community where bold ideas and the right people can meet at the right moment.
The organization has built programming around the intersections between research, entrepreneurship, healthcare, technology, policy, investment, and community leadership. Its year-round events have included conversations focused on women’s health, climate technology, artificial intelligence, biotechnology, and emerging innovation.
Their 2027 flagship event will be the organization’s fourth edition. According to its official LinkedIn page, the team wants to bring together thinkers, builders, artists, researchers, founders, students, and community leaders who are committed to shaping what comes next.
This is what you’ll need to submit on the application form:
Contact information
Organization and current role
Resume or CV in PDF format
LinkedIn profile
Optional Instagram profile and website
A short biography of no more than 250 words
Working talk title
Talk summary of no more than 100 words
Description of your core idea
The assumption your idea challenges
What makes the idea original
Why the idea matters now
How it connects to “Against Entropy”
Topic category
You must also submit a 60–120 second video pitching your idea.
A casual phone video is completely acceptable. The organizers say they care more about the idea than the production quality. Your video should explain how your idea fits the theme, who needs to hear it, and what message you want the audience to remember.
You will also be asked whether you have presented this specific idea publicly before and whether you have delivered other talks, workshops, or presentations.
Application Form: https://tally.so/r/lb9yN5
Website for More Info: https://www.tedxharvardsquare.org/
Social Media for Updates: https://www.instagram.com/tedxharvardsquare/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/tedxharvardsquare/
The deadline is August 31, but I would not leave the video, evidence, and theme connection until the final weekend. This application is short enough to complete quickly, but the questions require more strategic thinking than they first appear to.
You can absolutely figure this out on your own using what I share here, but I know the process can feel a lot faster and less overwhelming when you have someone in your corner.
That’s why I offer different ways to support you depending on where you are:
Just getting started → Join the Live masterclass to understand how the process works and what to do next
Refining your idea → Book a 1:1 Idea Session to turn your topic into a clear idea
Ready to apply → Book a 1:1 Strategy + application Session to submit strong, well-positioned applications
🔴 See all your options: Choose Your Path
Whether you’re here just for the open calls or you want more hands-on support, I’ve got you.
And if there’s something you want me to break down or a location you’re looking for, just hit reply or email me at geleen@travelnottoescape.com.
I’m rooting for you!
Geleen Antonio
Let’s Connect on Linkedin | Get Support on Your Application
“TED” and “TEDx” are registered trademarks and service marks of TED Conferences LLC.
This offering is not sponsored or endorsed by TED Conferences, LLC or any of its affiliates.
Comments
Nothing yet. Say the first thing.
Sign in to join the conversation.