One of the larger bureaus by its own account (~$370M booked, 72% of the Fortune 1000 as clients), with a roster including James Clear and Marc Randolph.
Why I recommend it: Invitation-only: they state outright that they do not accept unsolicited speaker applications, and ask you not to follow up. Their stated criteria — already established on the paid circuit, real existing video footage, a published book — are a useful checklist of what "bureau-ready" means. Use it as a target, not an application.
A fill-in-the-blank speaking package template: positioning statement and bios, three signature keynote topics with audience takeaways, proof and testimonials, showreel and photo checklist, and plain-language notes on fees, cancellation, travel, and rights so you know what a fair standard deal looks like.
Why I recommend it: Work it in order: content and proof first, then visuals, then business terms. Nothing in it is legal advice — have an attorney read anything before you sign or send it.
Full-service speakers bureau, 40+ years in business, with hundreds of speakers across categories and clients including Capital One, Ford, Yale, and Wells Fargo. Non-exclusive booking for most speakers, plus a smaller exclusive roster they manage directly.
Why I recommend it: The most realistic first bureau relationship. Submissions are open — email a bio, fees, at least three topics with program descriptions, and a 5-10 minute demo video. But they say it themselves: it is not geared toward speakers starting out, and they only reach out if you match a client need. Treat it as joining a large passive pool, not an application with a decision date. Non-exclusive is the upside: you can still book directly.
International speakers bureau headquartered in Denmark with US and UK offices, claiming 1,000+ client organizations and access to thousands of speakers worldwide.
Why I recommend it: There is no speaker application or submission page anywhere on the site — that is the finding. A-Speakers reads as a bureau that sources speakers through industry relationships and co-brokerage with other agencies. Treat it as "they find you," and build visibility instead of hunting for a form.
An anonymized speaking contract template synthesized from real speaker agreements: fee and payment structures, travel expenses, recording and likeness rights, promotion approval, cancellation windows, independent contractor status, indemnification, and force majeure.
Why I recommend it: Details: Educational starting point, not a finished contract. The bracketed notes flag the terms that varied most across real agreements — fee splits, cancellation windows, and dispute resolution. Have an attorney in your state review it before you send or sign anything based on it.
