Skip to content

Call for Speakers

EntreFEST is Iowa’s premier conference celebrating entrepreneurship, innovation, and community impact. We bring together founders, business leaders, creative thinkers, and change-makers from across the Midwest.

We’re looking for dynamic speakers to share bold ideas, practical insights, and real-world stories that inspire and empower entrepreneurs at every stage. Whether you’re scaling a startup, revitalizing a small business, leading an innovation team, or transforming your community, we want to hear from you.

Important Dates

  • Call for Speakers is OPEN!
  • Deadline to Apply: October 8- December 31, 2025
  • Applicants will be notified no later than February 27, 2026 of their acceptance.
  • Event Dates: June 11–12, 2026, Iowa City, IA

Topics We’re Excited About

We welcome a wide range of sessions and experiences, including (but not limited to):

  • Startup growth, funding, and investor relations
  • Leadership, culture, and people-first management
  • Innovation in tech, AI, and the future of work
  • Sustainability and creative industries
  • Marketing, storytelling, and brand strategy
  • Women and underrepresented voices in entrepreneurship
  • Social impact and community-driven business models
  • Rural innovation and local ecosystems
  • Personal resilience, founder wellness, and mindset

What We’re Looking For

EntreFEST is known for its authentic, interactive, and actionable sessions. We’re seeking speakers who:

  • Deliver engaging stories and practical takeaways
  • Inspire attendees to think differently and act boldly
  • Encourage connection, collaboration, and participation

Session formats can include workshops, fireside chats, panels, or keynotes. Typical sessions are 50 minutes long. Speakers are provided access to A/V, with a tech assistant on site. Powerpoints, videos, handouts, samples, etc are encouraged. Session sizes can range from 25-75 attendees.

Why Speak at EntreFEST?

  • Share your expertise with an audience of 400+ entrepreneurs, innovators, and leaders
  • Gain visibility across Iowa’s entrepreneurial and business ecosystem
  • Connect with peers, partners, and potential collaborators
  • Be part of one of the Midwest’s most creative and high-energy events

Submit Your Application

Questions? Contact us or email Jan Finlayson at Jan@newbo.co