TEDxTorreyPines FAQs
Is TEDxTorreyPines really an all-volunteer, independently organized event licensed by TED?
Yes, all team members are volunteers. TED requires that all TEDx events be organized and run entirely by volunteer teams.
Do you pay your speakers or performers to appear on stage?
No, speakers and performers are not paid, as per TED’s guidelines. We also do not cover any travel costs.
A couple things to keep in mind:
Talk Length – All talks will be between 5 and 12 minutes to maintain audience attention. There will be a variety of lengths to create a dynamic flow and keep the overall experience engaging for everyone attending.
Originality and Integrity of Ideas – Your “Idea Worth Spreading” must be entirely your own. Talks may not include political or religious agendas, nor may they promote a company, business, product, or service. Sales pitches or promotional content are strictly prohibited, which is one of the reasons audiences value and trust TEDx talks.
Commitment to the Process – All speakers work with a coach and are encouraged to join Zoom calls for the full experience, which strengthens the impact of the main event. Since the TEDxTorreyPines team is volunteering their time and expertise while balancing families and careers, we ask for full cooperation. If commitments cannot be met, leadership may invite another presenter to step in. Together, speakers and organizers create an event that elevates ideas and makes a lasting impact.
Content Guidelines – Before starting your application, you must verify that your idea is within TEDx Content Guidelines. To do this, please review the following link from TED: http://storage.ted.com/tedx/manuals/tedxcontentguidelines.pdf
Where does the rest of the money come from to put on your event?
We rely on sponsors, partners, and donors who contribute funding, goods, and services to support TEDxTorreyPines.
What do sponsors, partners, and donors receive in return for their support?
We provide recognition and exposure to our supporters. Sponsors, partners, and donors receive:
On-Stage Recognition – Acknowledgment from the stage during the event.
Website Visibility – Logo and company information featured on our website.
Digital Program Inclusion – Brand placement in our event’s digital program.
TEDx YouTube Channel Exposure – Name or logo included on the pre-talk slide of each speaker’s video when published on the official TEDx YouTube channel.
Premier Seating Tickets – Access to priority seating at the live event
TEDxTorreyPines provides a unique opportunity to connect with an engaged audience and align with an event focused on ideas, learning, and meaningful conversations.
Are partners who support the event allowed to be on stage?
No, TED guidelines do not allow sponsors or partners to be speakers or influence program content. However, sponsors receive public recognition during the event.
How are speakers selected for TEDxTorreyPines?
We start by selecting a theme and then curate speakers whose ideas align with that theme. We review candidates and choose a limited number based on whether they have an Idea Worth Spreading. Sign up for our newsletter to receive updates on key dates, announcements, and ways to get involved with TEDxTorreyPines.
Is there an age limit for attending TEDxTorreyPines?
There is no strict age limit, but the content is best suited for high school students and older.
Are there topics that are not allowed on the TEDxTorreyPines stage?
We do not feature topics that promote political, religious, or promotional agendas, and we do not allow hate speech. TEDx talks must be rooted in authentic, original ideas that inspire and elevate, not in selling or self-promotion.
How can I become a TEDxTorreyPines team member?
If you are interested in joining our team, please complete the form on the Contact Us page. Open positions are limited.
How can I become a partner or sponsor of TEDxTorreyPines?
If you want to support TEDxTorreyPines and receive recognition within our community, fill out the Partner Inquiry form on our website. We would love to discuss opportunities with you.
How does the TEDxTorreyPines audience work?
TED guidelines limit standard TEDx events to a maximum of 100 in-person attendees. This limit does not include volunteers or team members. While seating is limited, we are exploring the option to livestream the event so a wider audience can experience the talks online. If possible, a livestream link will be shared ahead of time.
Disclaimer: This event depends on both financial and in-kind sponsorship. We’re doing our best to secure support, but there’s a chance it may not move forward without it. If you know someone who may be interested in sponsoring, feel free to share their information with us at tedxtorreypines@gmail.com or have them complete the sponsorship form.
