Forecast – Call for Speakers

THE CALL FOR SPEAKERS HAS NOW CLOSED

Since 2009, MuseumNext has been at the forefront of exploring the future of museums, bringing together industry professionals to share insights, challenges, and innovations shaping the sector.

In December, we are launching a brand-new virtual event—MuseumNext Forecast—dedicated to looking ahead to 2026 and beyond. This event will explore the trends, technologies, and global shifts that will define the museum landscape in the future. We are now inviting proposals from those interested in speaking at this event.

What Topics Could You Cover?

We are looking for future-focused presentations that explore how museums can prepare for what’s next. Potential topics include:

• The Museums of the Future: Speculative insights on how museums will evolve in the coming years.
• Emerging Technologies: How AI, AR/VR, blockchain, and other digital innovations will shape the museum experience.
• Shifting Audience Expectations: How visitor behavior, demographics, and engagement strategies will transform by 2026.
• The Future of Funding: Predictions on government support, philanthropy, and alternative revenue models.
• Sustainability and Ethics: What’s next for museums in tackling climate change, decolonization, and social responsibility?
• Global Trends & Disruptors: How geopolitical, economic, and cultural shifts will impact the sector.
• New Models of Museum Engagement: What innovative strategies will redefine education, storytelling, and community participation?
• The Future Museum Workforce: How museum jobs, leadership, and skills will evolve.
• Visionary Case Studies & Forecasts: Lessons from institutions that are already embracing what’s next.

We encourage bold, forward-thinking perspectives from across the museum sector, including professionals, researchers, and innovators. Businesses interested in speaking should partner with a museum on a proposal.

Presentation Format

MuseumNext follows a fast-paced, twenty-minute presentation format, emphasising practice over theory.

All talks must be pre-recorded to ensure high-quality presentations and minimise technical difficulties. Speakers should be available for live Q&As if time zones permit (event runs 12pm – 5pm London time zone).

All presentations must be in English.

IMPORTANT: Download our speakers guide here, to see examples of past presentations and tips for making your MuseumNext presentation a success.

How to Apply

Submit proposals using this form, including the title, presenter names, theme summary, relevant links, and expected learning outcomes.

Deadline: 15 September 2025

What’s next?

Our conference peer panel will review all proposals and curate the event program.

We will respond to all applicants.

Pre-recorded talks will be required by 3rd December to allow for captioning, use in marketing and tech checks.