Theme Announcement for TEDxChicago 2025

Our future feels uncertain, yet we are resoundingly called to what matters most: You and me. Us. Humanity, itself. At TEDxChicago 2025, we believe the most powerful force shaping tomorrow is our collective agency, imagination, desire for connection and laughter, dignity, and generosity. This year, our speakers and artists arrive on Chicago’s stage to share their ideas, showcasing their fierce commitment to unify science, technology, and sustainability with the essential principles of compassion, justice, and care. This is our love letter to Chicago.

Join us at TEDxChicago 2025: The Future is Human.

We’re excited to share that TEDxChicago is partnering with TED to co-host the TEDxGlobal Idea Search. TED is partnering with 9 TEDx events on 6 continents to hold idea searches with the goal of finding the most remarkable undiscovered ideas that could change minds, lives, or even the world. The first of these is happening at TEDxChicago, representing North America.

TED just opened applications, and we want YOU to apply! TED is looking for bold, creative ideas that challenge the status quo. Ten finalists will be selected to give their talks onstage at a special session at TEDxChicago, and the TED team will choose one winner to give their talk at the flagship TED conference in Vancouver in April 2026.

Applications are due August 1st. This application is for the TEDxGlobal Idea Search Session at TEDxChicago, and is not an application to speak as part of the already selected speakers for the Future is Human sessions.

Learn more and apply for a chance to give your TED Talk

Event Details

Friday, September 26, 2025

TEDxGlobal Idea Session (Session 1) at 12:30 PM
Session 2 at 3:00 PM, Session 3 ends at 7:30 PM

Harris Theater, Millennium Park

205 East Randolph St., Chicago, IL 60601

Speakers will be announced and tickets will be available on July 25

This Year’s Topics

Sustainable Travel / Aviation
The Art of Noticing, Intentional Travel, Photography
Future of Work, Quantum's Global Impact
Connection and Intimacy
Ethical AI, Protecting Our Privacy, Human Identity
Innovation in Health Tech
Humor in Hindsight, Connection, Life's Twists & Turns
Networking Fuels Your Next Opportunity
Our Galaxy, Stargazing, Next Frontier

Venue Information

Our home at the Harris Theater is located in the cultural heart of downtown Chicago, against the spectacular backdrop of Millennium Park – the top tourist attraction in the Midwest. As the home venue of nearly 30 of Chicago’s not-for-profit arts organizations and a presenter of great artists from around the world, the Theater boasts some of the most diverse offerings of any multi-use venue in downtown Chicago.