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is coming back...

About

TEDxBend is a gathering that celebrates ideas, community, and the human spirit in the heart of Central Oregon.

TEDxBend is a community relationship and we view our partnership with you as an opportunity to strengthen our bonds with Central Oregon. With each idea that fuels our dreams and energizes us to take action, comes amazing opportunity for Central Oregon. This relationship speaks of being part of something meaningful, something authentic, something that has tangible value. The power of stories told transcends a single day—and creates energy to be inspired by and to act upon. That energy is TEDxBend.

event

DATE

MARCH 28, 2026

LOCATION

CALDERA THEATER

THEME

REBIRTH

Rebirth is an invitation to begin again—with intention, imagination, and courage. In 2026, TEDxBend returns at a moment of profound change, when individuals, communities, and ideas are shedding what no longer serves them and making space for what’s possible next. Rebirth is not about erasing the past, but transforming it—reframing failure as fuel, disruption as opportunity, and endings as necessary beginnings. On the TEDxBend stage, this theme comes to life through bold ideas and diverse voices that explore renewal in all its forms: personal, cultural, environmental, and collective. Together, we’ll examine how moments of rupture can spark creativity, resilience, and lasting action—and how choosing to begin again can shape a more thoughtful, connected future.

get involved

Whether you want to share a stage-worthy idea, support us as a partner, or lend a hand behind the scenes, join us in bringing "Ideas Worth Spreading" to life in Central Oregon.

TEDxBend is more than just a single day of talks—it is a community-driven movement that thrives on the passion, talent, and support of people like you. Whether you are looking to share a transformative idea on stage, partner with us as a sponsor to fuel innovation, or join our dedicated team of volunteers to help the event run seamlessly, there are countless ways to make your mark. Join us in our mission to spark deep conversation and connect the curious minds of Central Oregon as we bring "Ideas Worth Spreading" to life.

Woman standing on TEDxBend stage speaking with hands in pockets against blue-lit textured wall.

Be a speaker

Do you have a transformative idea or a unique perspective that the world needs to hear? We are looking for thinkers, doers, and storytellers who can challenge the status quo and spark deep conversation within the Central Oregon community and beyond. If you possess a well-formed "Idea Worth Spreading" and the passion to share it from the TEDxBend stage, we invite you to apply and help us shape a day of inspiration and discovery.

speaker application
Seven smiling event staff standing in an auditorium, six wearing red TEDxBend shirts and holding red light sticks.

Be a volunteer

Behind every great talk is a dedicated team of volunteers working to make the magic happen. Whether you’re interested in event production, guest experience, or logistics, we are looking for energetic and reliable individuals who want to go behind the scenes and help us bring TEDxBend to life. Join our crew to meet like-minded people, gain unique event experience, and play a vital role in creating a day that inspires our entire community.

volunteer application

Be a sponsor

Partnering with TEDxBend offers a unique opportunity to align your brand with the global gold standard for innovation while making a direct impact on our local culture. As a sponsor, you provide the vital fuel that allows us to bring world-class speakers to Central Oregon and keep these transformative ideas accessible to our community. By joining our network of visionary partners, you’ll gain visibility among a highly engaged audience of leaders, thinkers, and creators who value the power of forward-thinking ideas.

sponsor application

presenters

From Central Oregon and beyond, our presenters share ideas rooted in curiosity, courage, and the human spirit.

TEDxBend presenters are thinkers, creators, and storytellers who bring ideas shaped by curiosity, experience, and purpose. Each voice offers a unique perspective, inviting the audience to see the world differently and engage with ideas that spark connection, reflection, and possibility. Together, they create moments that extend far beyond the stage and into the community.

to be announced