Seeking Dynamic Speakers & Facilitators
Are you a technology expert, thought leader, or visionary ready to inspire Iowa’s tech ecosystem?
We’re seeking speakers and facilitators for the 2026 Iowa Technology Summit — the state’s premier gathering for tech professionals, innovators, and industry leaders. This is your opportunity to share expertise and help shape the conversations driving Iowa’s tech future.
If you’re a practitioner, strategist, executive, educator, or visionary with a compelling perspective, we invite you to submit a session proposal and be part of this year’s Summit.
Lead the conversations that move Iowa Tech forward.
Audience: Iowa-based tech practitioners, tech executives, business and community leaders
Average Attendance: 800+
Event Date: April 6-7, 2026 (Sessions will be held on April 7 only.)
Location: Community Choice Convention Center – Des Moines, Iowa
Session Tracks
The Summit features five content tracks designed to support practitioners across roles and industries:
Guide attendees through the evolving cybersecurity landscape. Share insights on the latest threats, advanced defense strategies, and best practices for protecting digital assets.
Engage with professionals on all things data—governance, analytics, and innovation. This track focuses on strategies for leveraging data effectively across Iowa’s tech landscape.
Showcase groundbreaking ideas and technologies transforming industries across Iowa. This track highlights innovative solutions driving progress and setting new standards.
Focus on effective leadership in tech. Explore strategies, skills, and insights that empower leaders to guide teams and drive success in Iowa’s evolving technology sector.
Highlight real-world examples of digital transformation and modernization. Share how businesses in Iowa are leveraging technology to move beyond legacy systems, adopt cutting-edge solutions, and stay competitive.
Session Expectations
We seek sessions that go beyond traditional presentations, creating an interactive experience on relevant, timely topics. Ideal sessions inspire learning, spark meaningful discussion, and showcase technological advancements impacting Iowa’s tech industry.
We encourage speakers to engage attendees actively, sharing insights that resonate and leave a lasting impact. No prior speaking experience required!
Session Formats
Sessions can be delivered in a variety of lengths and formats, allowing presenters to tailor the experience to their content.
Note: If you are solely interested in presenting a product demo, please reach out directly about sponsorships to Tyler Wyngarden, VP of Strategic Partnerships, at tyler@technologyiowa.org
Long Form (50 Minutes)
Moderated sessions with 2-3 experts, combining opening insights with audience Q&A
Example here.
In-depth explorations of complex topics for those with foundational knowledge
Example here.
Hands-on learning sessions for skill-building
Example here.
15-minute presentation with a 30-minute audience-driven discussion
Example here.
Short Form (25-30 Minutes)
Real-world examples designed to encourage critical thinking
Example here.
Casual, engaging conversations between a guest and moderator
Example here.
Short, focused talks that address core themes
Example here.
Interactive, full-audience discussion focused on a specific industry topic, designed to break down barriers and foster connection in an informal, inviting environment—similar to a literal campfire.
Example here.
Brief, high-impact presentations (7-10 minutes) to spark new ideas
Creating a Standout Proposal
Educational, Not Promotional
Focus on learning and knowledge-sharing over sales pitches.
Engagement First
Design your session to involve the audience through discussion prompts, polls, or Q&A.
Clear, Concise Delivery
Keep content focused. Prioritize clarity, relevance, and practical value over broad or abstract concepts.
Problem–Solution Driven
Address real challenges and clearly explain the approaches, decisions, and lessons that helped solve them.
Original Content
Offer fresh insights and unique perspectives.
Actionable Takeaways
Leave attendees with clear guidance, next steps, or frameworks they can put into practice.
Key Dates
- Submission Deadline: End of business on Friday, January 9, 2026
- Notification: February 2026
- Onboarding Calls: March 2026
- Event Dates: Monday, April 6, 2026 & Tuesday, April 7, 2026 (Sessions will be held on April 7 only.)
Submission Form
Please fill out the form below to apply to speak at the 2026 Iowa Technology Summit on Tuesday, April 7, 2026.
**Submissions are due by the end of business on Friday, January 9, 2026.**
Questions? Reach out to Jessica Erickson, Senior Director of Events & Programs, at jessica@technologyiowa.org.
Sponsorship opportunities are available! For more information, fill out the interest form here.
Sponsorship Opportunities
Amplify your brand and marketing efforts and reach new audiences.
Join us as a sponsor:
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