Will Allen: Urban Farmer

  • Highlights:
    • Urban Farmer and Founding CEO of Growing Power
    • Author, "The Good Food Revolution" (2013)
    • Named one of the “World’s 7 Most Influential Foodies” (Forbes, 2011)
Reading time: 2 min
Reviews: (0 reviews)
  • Travels from: Oak Creek, WI
  • **Fee range: $10,001 - $20,000

Keynote Topics

Growing Healthy Food, People, and Communities

Will Allen is an urban farmer who is transforming the cultivation, production, and delivery of healthy foods to underserved urban populations.

After a brief career in professional basketball and a number of years in corporate marketing at Procter & Gamble, Will Allen returned to his roots as a farmer, using his retirement package to purchase a plot of inner-city land with greenhouses, where he has built the country’s pre-eminent urban farm. He is now the CEO of Growing Power, an organisation that develops community food systems.

In 2008, Will was named a John D. and Katherine T. MacArthur “Genius Grant” Foundation Fellow. He is only the second farmer to have ever received this award. He is also a member of the Clinton Global Initiative, and in February 2010, Will was invited to the White House to join First Lady Michelle Obama in launching “Let’s Move!” – her signature leadership program to reverse the epidemic of childhood obesity in America.

In May 2010, Time magazine named Will one the “World’s 100 Most Influential People.” In 2011, Will was named one of the “World’s 7 Most Influential Foodies” by Michael Pollan and Forbes Magazine. He was also named the 2012 NCAA Theodore Roosevelt Award recipient.

Will is the co-author, with Charles Wilson, of the book “The Good Food Revolution: Growing Healthy Food, People and Communities” (2013). The book was nominated for a 2013 NAACP Image Award in the category of biography/autobiography.

Contact us at Speakers Inc and follow us on Twitter

Will Allen | Urban Farmer

Videos

Interest to Book? Send us your enquiry

Speaker Contact Form

Enquiry Form

No reviews available for this post.

Was this profile helpful?

Talent FAQ's

Speaker fees can vary depending on factors such as expertise, demand, and event specifics. While some speakers may charge a flat fee for their services, others may have hourly rates. It’s best to discuss fee structures directly with the speaker or their representative to understand the pricing model.

Keynote speeches typically range from 30 to 90 minutes, with the duration determined by the speaker’s expertise, the event’s agenda, and audience preferences. Keynote speeches often include a combination of inspirational stories, practical insights, and actionable advice tailored to the event’s theme or objectives.

The scale of the event and audience size can indeed impact a speaker’s fee. Larger events with a broader reach or higher attendance may command higher fees due to increased exposure and demand. Conversely, smaller events or niche audiences may offer opportunities for more flexible pricing arrangements.

Travel expenses such as transportation, accommodation, and meals are typically negotiated separately from the speaker’s fee. These costs vary depending on the speaker’s location, travel distance, and event duration. It’s important to clarify travel arrangements and expenses during the booking process to avoid misunderstandings.

Many speakers require a deposit to secure a booking, with the remaining balance due closer to the event date. Deposits are often non-refundable and serve as a commitment from both parties. It’s advisable to discuss deposit requirements and payment terms with the speaker or their representative when finalizing the booking.

  • Virtual speaking appearances are a cost-effective alternative to high speaking fees, often 10-50% cheaper than in-person rates.
  • There is typically no difference in fee for a 15-minute speech versus a 60-minute speech.
  • Some motivational speakers are open to discounting their fee if hired for more than one event by the same organization.
  • When browsing speakers, consider their location to keep travel costs down.
  • Personal connections to your organization or event location can increase your chances of securing a renowned speaker.
  • Be upfront about your needs and expectations to ensure a successful partnership.
  • Speaker bureaus like Speakers Inc help guide you through the booking process to negotiate the best deal with favorable terms.

Ready to find the perfect speaker for your event? Use our advanced search feature or contact us to get started today!

View further speakers

  • (23)
  • (3)
Kyle and Brent Pease - Image 05 (January 27, 2026)

In a world filled with inspiring stories of perseverance and triumph, the journey of Kyle and Brent Pease stands out as a testament to the power of determination, inclusion, and the unbreakable bonds of brotherhood. These two brothers have defied the odds, surmounting incredible challenges to become an inspiration to countless individuals around the world. […]

  • Travels from: Atlanta, GA
  • Inspirational Speakers
  • (42)
Dario Amode: AI Expert

Dario Amodei is one of the most respected voices in artificial intelligence research and development, known for his groundbreaking work in aligning AI with human values and safety. As the CEO and Co-Founder of Anthropic, a public benefit corporation, Dario leads a mission-driven team focused on developing steerable, interpretable, and safe AI systems—pushing the boundaries […]

  • Travels from: San Francisco, CA
  • Artificial Intelligence
  • (52)
Lisa Powell Graham

Lisa Powell Graham, MPA, is a visionary leader, boasting over two decades of remarkable achievements in campaign management, strategic planning, fundraising, communications, and community organizing. With a passion for driving positive change and a proven track record of success, Lisa stands as a beacon of inspiration and expertise in her field. Lisa Powell Graham’s journey […]

  • Travels from: San Francisco, CA
  • Leadership Speakers
  • (7)
The Watercoolers

For nearly 15 years, THE WATER COOLERS have entertained audiences around the world, as far reaching as Singapore and Australia, with their high energy, uncommonly funny, honest take on work and life. Smart phones, conference calls, kids, co-workers, and travel are just a few of the topics this group of top NYC talent turns into […]

  • Travels from: New York, NY
  • Comedian Performers
  • (10)
  • (6)
Alison Canavan

Alison Canavan is an internationally renowned transformational wellness coach, motivational speaker, and author, dedicated to empowering individuals to live more balanced and fulfilled lives. With a deep passion for holistic wellness, Alison has spent over a decade helping people transform their mental, physical, and emotional well-being. Her own journey through personal challenges and triumphs has […]

  • Travels from: Dallas, TX
  • Workplace Wellness
  • (13)
Kaihan Krippendorff - Outthinkers Podcast

Kaihan Krippendorff is dedicated to equipping organizations and individuals with the tools to thrive amidst the whirlwind of today’s fast-paced technological disruptions. Renowned for his adeptness at unraveling complex concepts and translating them into actionable strategies, Kaihan stands as an internationally acclaimed thought leader, battle-tested consultant, and highly sought-after keynote speaker. With a focus on […]

  • Travels from: Miami, FL
  • Business Speakers
  • (42)
Danelle Umstead

Danelle Umstead is an extraordinary individual, a beacon of inspiration whose journey transcends sports and embodies the resilience of the human spirit. As a top inspirational keynote speaker and three-time Paralympic bronze medalist, Danelle has not only conquered the slopes but has also conquered the hearts and minds of audiences worldwide.   Alongside her husband […]

  • Travels from: Park City, UT
  • Summer Olympians
  • (38)
Jasmine Ellis - RHYTHM AND BAE PODCAST

Jasmine Ellis is a Stand Up Comedian, ,Entertainment Journalist and podcast host from Arlington, Texas. Jasmine tours colleges and clubs nationally and has been featured at over a dozen of the Top comedy festivals including Moontower, 10,000 Laughs, Limestone and Black Girl Giggles.. Her Debut comedy Album Trashbaby went #1 on iTunes and has been […]

  • Travels from: Los Angeles, CA
  • Comedian Performers
Disclaimer
The profiles and images embedded on these pages are from various conference entertainers and other talent.

These remain the property of its owner and are not affiliated with or endorsed by Speakers Inc.

Fee ranges where listed on this website are intended to serve as a guideline only.

All talent fees exclude VAT, travel and accommodation where required.

Subscribe to our Newsletter and get connected:

Your subscription could not be saved. Please try again.
Your subscription has been successful.

Newsletter

Subscribe to our newsletter and stay updated.

We use Brevo as our marketing platform. By submitting this form you agree that the personal data you provided will be transferred to Brevo for processing in accordance with Brevo's Privacy Policy.

Our Mission:

We are your partner creating memorable and engaging experiences that go beyond the event itself.

© All rights reserved 2026.  Designed using Voxel

AI Assistant
Speakers Inc Logo 2024
Privacy Overview

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.