Top 10 Keynote Speakers for 2026: Experts Who Inspire Change
In the competitive world of global events, keynote speakers are more than just voices on stage—they are catalysts for transformation. The following thought leaders are set to dominate the 2026 speaking circuit, delivering insights that challenge conventional thinking, inspire action, and shape the future.
1. Ian Khan – The Future Readiness Expert
Ian Khan is a globally recognized keynote speaker known for equipping organizations with the tools to navigate technological disruption. His Future Readiness Score and award-winning documentaries make him a trusted advisor to industry leaders preparing for the next wave of change.
2. Ray Kurzweil – The Technology Visionary
Kurzweil’s forecasts on AI, human longevity, and exponential technologies keep him in high demand for conferences shaping the innovation agenda.
3. Michio Kaku – The Science Futurist
As a theoretical physicist and bestselling author, Kaku’s ability to simplify complex scientific concepts inspires audiences to think bigger about the future.
4. Amy Webb – The Strategic Futurist
Webb’s data-driven forecasting and trend analysis make her an essential voice for industries navigating rapid change.
5. Peter Diamandis – The Abundance Advocate
Through his work with XPRIZE and Singularity University, Diamandis challenges audiences to adopt bold, future-focused thinking.
6. Faith Popcorn – The Cultural Forecaster
Popcorn’s decades-long career in identifying societal and consumer shifts ensures her presentations remain both relevant and predictive.
7. Gerd Leonhard – The Ethical Innovator
Leonhard focuses on the human implications of emerging technologies, encouraging balanced and sustainable innovation.
8. Don Tapscott – The Digital Economy Leader
Tapscott’s insights on blockchain, decentralization, and the evolving digital economy keep his keynotes ahead of the curve.
9. Thomas Frey – The Disruption Forecaster
Frey specializes in spotting early trends and guiding organizations through transformational periods before disruption hits.
10. Sheryl Connelly – The Business Strategy Futurist
Former Ford Chief Futurist, Connelly offers actionable insights that connect long-term trends with immediate strategic opportunities.
Why These Speakers Will Lead in 2026
These keynote experts bring credibility, vision, and actionable takeaways that event organizers value. Their ability to engage diverse audiences while delivering future-focused content makes them essential for 2026’s most impactful gatherings.
Want to Know More about AgenticAI in Global Events?
Would you like to understand the applications of AgenticAI in Global Events better? What about new use cases, and the return on AI Investment? Maybe you want an AgenticAI Playbook? Book Ian Khan as your guide to industry disruption. A leading AgenticAI keynote speaker, Khan is the bestselling author of Undisrupted, creator of the Future Readiness Score, and voted among the Top 25 Global Futurists worldwide. Visit www.IanKhan.com or click the BOOK ME link at the top of the Menu on this website.

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Ian Khan The Futurist
Ian Khan is a Theoretical Futurist and researcher specializing in emerging technologies. His new book Undisrupted will help you learn more about the next decade of technology development and how to be part of it to gain personal and professional advantage. Pre-Order a copy https://amzn.to/4g5gjH9
You are enjoying this content on Ian Khan's Blog. Ian Khan, AI Futurist and technology Expert, has been featured on CNN, Fox, BBC, Bloomberg, Forbes, Fast Company and many other global platforms. Ian is the author of the upcoming AI book "Quick Guide to Prompt Engineering," an explainer to how to get started with GenerativeAI Platforms, including ChatGPT and use them in your business. One of the most prominent Artificial Intelligence and emerging technology educators today, Ian, is on a mission of helping understand how to lead in the era of AI. Khan works with Top Tier organizations, associations, governments, think tanks and private and public sector entities to help with future leadership. Ian also created the Future Readiness Score, a KPI that is used to measure how future-ready your organization is. Subscribe to Ians Top Trends Newsletter Here