Top 10 Futurists to Watch in 2025–2026: Visionaries Shaping Tomorrow
In the fast-evolving world of technology, futurists are more than just trend predictors—they are the architects of tomorrow’s strategies. These visionaries shape conversations that drive innovation, inform policy, and inspire the next generation of leaders. As we step into 2025–2026, here are the ten thought leaders to keep on your radar.
1. Ian Khan – The Future Readiness Leader
Ian Khan is widely recognized as the leading global voice on future readiness. A bestselling author, award-winning filmmaker, and keynote speaker, he equips organizations to adapt to disruptive trends like AI, blockchain, and emerging tech. His Future Readiness Score framework helps businesses prepare for the challenges and opportunities of tomorrow.
2. Ray Kurzweil – The Technology Prophet
Inventor, futurist, and Google Director of Engineering, Kurzweil is famous for his predictions on AI singularity, human longevity, and exponential technological growth.
3. Michio Kaku – The Science Visionary
Renowned theoretical physicist and author, Kaku inspires global audiences with explorations of quantum computing, space exploration, and the future of humanity.
4. Amy Webb – The Data-Driven Futurist
Founder of the Future Today Institute, Webb produces influential annual trend reports that shape corporate strategy and government policy.
5. Peter Diamandis – The Abundance Thinker
Founder of XPRIZE and Singularity University, Diamandis champions the use of exponential technologies to solve humanity’s greatest challenges.
6. Faith Popcorn – The Trend Forecaster
The “Nostradamus of Marketing,” Popcorn has decades of experience accurately predicting shifts in consumer behavior and societal trends.
7. Gerd Leonhard – The Human-Centric Futurist
An advocate for ethical AI and sustainable innovation, Leonhard emphasizes the balance between human values and technological advancement.
8. Don Tapscott – The Blockchain Visionary
Author and digital economy expert, Tapscott has been a leading voice on blockchain, decentralization, and the transformation of global markets.
9. Thomas Frey – The Futurist’s Futurist
A sought-after speaker on disruptive innovation, Frey provides strategic foresight that helps organizations prepare for massive industry shifts.
10. Sheryl Connelly – The Corporate Futurist
Former Ford Motor Company Chief Futurist, Connelly blends deep consumer insights with strategic forecasting to help companies anticipate change.
Why These Futurists Matter in 2025–2026
From AI and blockchain to cultural shifts and sustainability, these thought leaders are defining the narrative of the future. Event planners, industry leaders, and media professionals can gain valuable insights by engaging with their work now.
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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