Skip to main content
Back to TM Forum

Call for speakers

Shape the narrative

We’re looking for clear, compelling content that tackles real industry challenges and drives meaningful progress. Innovate Americas 2026 is your stage to connect with leaders, share breakthroughs, and showcase what’s moving the industry forward. 

Share insights from building and scaling in live environments. Whether you're advancing Composable IT and Ecosystems, Trustworthy AI and Data, or Autonomous Networks, our audience is ready to hear what you’ve learned and where you’re heading next.

Call for speakers

Take a moment to carefully consider the story you want to tell and why it matters in terms of audience value and how it can help move the industry forward.  

The best sessions tend to focus on a single clear message, objective or idea.  

Is your story one that imparts new knowledge, inspires the audience to think differently, or does it share lessons learned? 

Who is the best person to tell your story? Your chosen speaker(s) play a huge part in the success and can make or break your story. Consider:

  • Is your proposed speaker the best fit for the format and the story you want to tell? 
  • Does the proposed speaker establish credibility with the audience? 

You may have strong speakers internally, but don’t stop there; nominate fresh voices from your team or inspiring experts outside your company. Consider:

  • Co-presenting with your customer, choosing the speakers from both companies who can deliver the most compelling story.
  • Would it bring even more value to the audience to let your customers tell your story on their own?

To maximise your chances of delivering a memorable, impactful session, get the format and delivery right. Choose the style that best conveys your message to the audience. Recommended formats include: 

Presentation: 15 minutes 

Panel Session: 30 minutes (max 4 panelists) 

Interview: Moderator in conversation with one speaker, up to 3 slides allowed 

Fireside chat: Moderator in conversation with two speakers, up to 3 slides allowed 

Industry Insight: 15-minute data/research thought leadership 

Demo: 10-minute live product showcase

Challenge us! Suggest new session formats if you have ideas. 

To reach your target audience, it is recommended that you submit your topic under the right event theme. Review the key conference topics of discussion:

Composable IT and Ecosystems: Cloud native, Open APIs, IT modernization, digital transformation, platform engineering, automation, composable architecture, digital operating model

Autonomous Networks: Zero-touch operations, network automation, closed-loop assurance, intent-based networking, AI-driven orchestration, network slicing, private networks, 5G standalone (SA), 6G evolution, hybrid cloud networks, open RAN

Trustworthy AI and Data: automation, real-time analytics, governance, generative AI, responsible AI

Customer experience & trust: Personalization, digital identity, data privacy, omnichannel engagement, ethical data use, CX transformation, digital experience design

The human factor: Change management, digital mindset, agile transformation, upskilling, reskilling, talent transformation, cross-functional collaboration

Ecosystem development: Partner ecosystems, API economy, B2B2X models, platform business models, co-creation, developer engagement, ecosystem monetization, interoperability, innovation networks, partner marketplaces

When outlining your topic, provide a clear and concise bullet list that shows how your session aligns with event themes and adds value. Recommended criteria for successful consideration:

  • Insights from CSPs or verticals 
  • Innovative and fearless ideas 
  • Engaging formats with “wow” factor 
  • New speakers 
  • Diverse voices and topics 
  • Senior-level speakers 
  • Confirmed speakers at submission 
  • Advanced/expert-level content 
  • Vendor proposals must include end-user co-presenters 
  • Quality over quantity: Submit up to five topic proposals and limit panel sessions to four speakers. This ensures clarity and stronger content.
  • Diversity and inclusion: TM Forum is a global community. Aim for speaker diversity in gender, ethnicity, and perspective to reflect a wide range of stories.
  • Dynamic speakers: Seniority matters, but energy and engagement matter more. Choose speakers who offer practical insights and real-world experience, not just theory.
  • Original content: Bring fresh ideas. Previously presented material will not be accepted.

Call for speakers timeline

This timeline illustrates the milestones and deadlines of the call for speakers process. Missing any of these deadlines may impact your chances for consideration and inclusion. All proposals must be submitted via the form below. Late or direct submissions won’t be considered.

1

Call for speakers opens

May 29, 2026

2

Call for speakers closes

August 11, 2026

3

Evaluation period

11 - 17 August, 2026

4

Acceptance emails sent

18 August, 2026

5

Confirmations and public announcement

25 August, 2026

Apply to speak at Innovate Americas 2026

CSP/end user speaker required for vendor submissions