NOVEMBER 17–19, 2026 | TIFF BELL LIGHTBOX, TORONTO
Apply to Speak · DLS 2026
Design's unfinished business needs your voice. Share a talk, roundtable, or workshop that trades polish for truth.
DLS 2026 is about the work design didn't finish — the promise was bigger than the screen, the mandate shrank, and AI just changed the conditions. If you've got a hard-won view from inside that, raise your hand.
Choose a Format That's for You!
We’re inviting proposals for four session types. Pick the format that best suits your topic and delivery style.
Theatre Talks & Panels
Theatre Talks & Panels
Theatre Talks & Panels
Theatre Talks & Panels
Submit Your Proposal
Complete the form below to apply for a Talk, Workshop, or Panel at Design Leadership Summit 2026. Our team will review submissions on a rolling basis and notify applicants via email.
What We're Looking For
The Design Leadership Summit brings together hundreds of senior designers, managers, and executives from across the globe. Speaking here means you’ll:
Past Speakers
Our 2025 edition featured leading voices in design leadership who challenged our community with fresh ideas and bold perspectives.
Choose a Format That's For You!
We’re looking for sessions that are relevant, actionable, and engaging.
Keep these in mind when crafting your submission:
Theatre Stage Talks & Panels
Step onto the main stage with a 20–30 minute talk or join a panel of peers. Share bold stories, big visions, and lessons that resonate with the full community.
Lightning Talks
A fast-paced 10–15 minute talk to spark ideas or share a sharp case study. Perfect for delivering focused insights that provoke discussion.
Interactive Sessions
A 30–45 minute workshop-style session where participants actively engage. Designed to leave attendees with practical tools or frameworks they can apply.
Roundtable Facilitators
Guide a 45-minute candid discussion with peers around a specific challenge. You set the stage, then help surface insights from the group.
What’s In It For Me
The effort and time required for speakers to present an incredibly engaging and valuable talk at a conference is a tough task. Our team will work closely with you to ensure your personal and professional goals from the speaking engagement are met.
Economy airfare to/from Toronto
We’ll cover your round-trip flight so you can focus on your talk.
2 hotel nights at a partner hotel
Stay close to the venue in comfort, with accommodation arranged by us.
VIP speaker dinner(2 invites)
An invite-only dinner with fellow speakers and design leaders. A chance to connect, share stories, and build relationships beyond the stage.
Session recording + attendee feedback
Receive a professional video of your session along with real audience insights.
How to Make Your Proposal Stand Out
We’re looking for sessions that are relevant, actionable, and engaging.
Keep these in mind when crafting your submission:
Relevance
Tie your topic to this year's theme — Design's Unfinished Business. The strongest proposals speak to one of the four threads: Mandate, Organization, Conditions, or Quality.
Clarity
Clearly outline your audience’s takeaways — what will they leave knowing or able to do?
Engagement
Use stories, visuals, and interaction to keep your audience leaning in.
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about speaking at the next Design Leadership Summit.
Have more questions, drop us an email at support@designx.community
Who should apply?
What if I’m a first-time speaker?
Travel & accommodation details
Accessibility & recording consent
Can I submit more than one proposal?
