Julia Collins: Business Innovation

  • Julia Collins is celebrated as the first Black woman to achieve “unicorn” status with her tech company, marking a historic milestone in the industry.
  • As the visionary leader behind Planet Forward, Julia spearheads efforts to leverage technology for environmental sustainability, earning international acclaim for her innovative approach.
  • Julia’s expertise in climate tech entrepreneurship positions her as a leading voice in the fight against climate change, bridging the gap between technology and environmentalism.

Travel & Fee Range:**

  • Travels from: San Francisco, California, United States
  • **Fee range: $10,001 - $20,000

Keynote Topics

HOW REGENERATIVE AGRICULTURE MAY SAVE US FROM CLIMATE CHANGE
 
Spending her entrepreneurial career working at the intersection of food and tech, Julia Collins began a more narrow focus with her latest company, Planet FWD, to understand the relationship between food systems and climate change as she was preparing to be a mom.

Around this intersection, she discovered a drive to reverse climate change for our collective futures. In this talk, Julia shares Planet FWD’s mission to reform our food system to not only reduce greenhouse gas emissions, but also draw-down, sequester, re-balance atmospheric carbon.

This challenge is completed in two ways. By creating the world’s first climate-friendly snack brand and by creating a data service linking regenerative farmers to brands and consumers who are hungry for climate-friendly products, Julia shares insights into the future of agriculture, sustainability and climate change that will help save us all.

AUTHENTIC LESSONS IN LEADERSHIP
 
In this captivating presentation, Julia Collins takes center stage to share her insights on navigating the intersection of entrepreneurship and climate change.

Drawing from her extensive experience and the lessons learned on her entrepreneurial journey in the food and tech spaces, Julia explores the pivotal role of innovation and sustainability in shaping our collective future.

Through engaging anecdotes and thought-provoking analysis, she delves into the challenges and opportunities presented by the climate crisis, highlighting the importance of empowering entrepreneurs to drive positive change.

From fostering a culture of innovation to harnessing the power of technology, Julia not only offers practical strategies for building a more sustainable and equitable world, but also shares tackling the dynamic landscape of entrepreneurship. Discover her tactical advantage to becoming your most authentic version of a leader through this talk.

TRANSFORMING FOOD SYSTEMS FOR A CLIMATE-RESILIENT FUTURE
 
Join climate tech founder Julia Collins in this lively conversation in which she’ll change a room full of listeners into doers and changemakers on the imperative to address climate change through our food systems.

In this captivating presentation, she reveals how decarbonizing our food supply chains, particularly through methods like regenerative agriculture, holds the key to mitigating global emissions and fostering climate resilience.

Through compelling anecdotes and impactful statistics, discover the profound impact of simple ingredient swaps, such as transitioning to regenerative organic options, and purchase changes in reducing carbon footprints and promoting sustainability.

From the success story of some of Planet Fwd’s biggest food service partners to the broader potential of regenerative farming on a global scale, audiences explore how each of us, whether as consumers or investors, plays a pivotal role in shaping a healthier and more sustainable future for generations to come.

Get ready to be inspired to leverage the power of our plates as a force for positive change in the fight against climate change.

Julia Collins is a trailblazing figure in the world of technology and entrepreneurship, making history as the first Black woman to achieve “unicorn” status with her tech company. As the Founder and CEO of Planet Forward, she has garnered international acclaim for her innovative approach to addressing climate change through technology. With a unique blend […]

Julia Collins is a trailblazing figure in the world of technology and entrepreneurship, making history as the first Black woman to achieve “unicorn” status with her tech company. As the Founder and CEO of Planet Forward, she has garnered international acclaim for her innovative approach to addressing climate change through technology. With a unique blend of business acumen, technological expertise, and a passion for environmental sustainability, Julia is a sought-after speaker whose insights inspire audiences worldwide.

Julia Collins

Julia Collins’ journey into the tech industry began with a vision to revolutionize the way we approach climate change. Armed with a degree in computer science from a prestigious university, she embarked on a mission to harness the power of technology to create tangible solutions for environmental sustainability. Her groundbreaking work at Planet Forward has earned her recognition as a leading figure in the field of climate tech entrepreneurship.

With a keen understanding of both the technological and business aspects of her field, Julia brings a wealth of expertise to the table. From developing cutting-edge software solutions to forging strategic partnerships with industry leaders, she has demonstrated an unparalleled ability to drive innovation and effect positive change on a global scale. Her success in navigating the competitive landscape of the tech industry serves as a testament to her resilience, vision, and leadership prowess.

As a speaker, Julia Collins captivates audiences with her dynamic presence and thought-provoking insights. Drawing from her own experiences as a Black woman in a predominantly male-dominated industry, she offers a unique perspective on diversity, equity, and inclusion in the tech world. Her powerful storytelling and unwavering commitment to social justice resonate deeply with audiences, inspiring them to challenge the status quo and strive for greater diversity and representation in the tech sector.

Julia’s influence extends far beyond the confines of the tech industry. As a passionate advocate for environmental sustainability, she is dedicated to empowering individuals and organizations to take action against climate change. Whether she’s discussing the role of technology in mitigating environmental impact or sharing practical strategies for building a more sustainable future, Julia’s message is both timely and impactful. Her ability to bridge the gap between technology and environmentalism makes her a compelling speaker for audiences of all backgrounds and interests.

A serial entrepreneur, Julia previously co- founded Zume Pizza where she became the first Black woman “unicorn” when she created a venture-backed tech company valued at over a billion dollars. Prior to becoming an entrepreneur, she served as Vice President and Chief Operating Officer at Harlem Jazz Enterprises, which holds The Cecil, an Afro-Asian Brasserie, and Minton’s, a historic jazz supper club. While there, The Cecil won Best New Restaurant of the Year.

Earlier in her career, she built industry- leading food companies in New York City. Serving as a leader, Julia Collins grew brands such as Union Square Hospitality Group, Mexicue and Murray’s Cheese.

In addition to leading Planet FWD, Julia Collins sits on the Climate Collaborative board, the Food for Climate League board and the advisory council for Launch with GS. She is also an active angel investor focused on funding female entrepreneurs and BIPOC founders. Julia is also an Ambassador for the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture.

Julia holds a BA from Harvard and an MBA from Stanford. She resides in San Francisco with her 2 sons and partner.

In summary, Julia Collins is a pioneering figure in the world of technology and entrepreneurship, making history as the first Black woman to achieve “unicorn” status with her tech company. As the Founder and CEO of Planet Forward, she is leading the charge in the fight against climate change through innovative technology solutions. Julia’s expertise, passion, and commitment to social justice make her a compelling speaker whose insights inspire audiences worldwide.

Event planners seeking to engage their audiences with thought-provoking insights and actionable strategies for addressing pressing global challenges can trust that booking Julia Collins will enhance the quality of their event and leave a lasting impact on their audience.

View All Speakers and follow us on Twitter

Videos

Interest to Book? Send us your enquiry

Speaker Contact Form

Enquiry Form

In order to view the below you must be logged in.

  • Powerpoint Slide – For meeting and event planners
  • Gallery Images
  • High Resolution Images
  • PDF Files
  • Books and Magazine Links
  • Music List
  • Podcast Shows
  • Courses
  • + more

You may be interested in...

  • (21)

Noramay Cadena is a Managing Partner at Supply Change Capital, a pioneering venture firm that strategically invests in the convergence of food, culture, and technology. With a distinguished career path deeply rooted in venture capital, Noramay’s expertise spans the realms of innovation, entrepreneurship, and community empowerment. Previously, she served as a Managing Partner at MiLA […]

  • Travels from: Los Angeles, CA
  • STEM Speakers
  • (37)
Julia Landauer

Julia Landauer is an accomplished NASCAR driver and a trailblazer in the male-dominated world of motorsports. With a passion for speed and competition, Julia’s journey began at a young age when she started go-kart racing at just 10 years old. She quickly rose through the ranks, securing numerous championships and solidifying her reputation as a […]

  • Travels from: Charlotte, NC
  • Racing Drivers
  • (56)
Leah Busque Solivan

Leah Busque Solivan is not just a speaker; she’s a visionary entrepreneur who has redefined the way we approach productivity and task management. As the founder of TaskRabbit, she revolutionized the gig economy, empowering individuals to outsource errands and tasks with ease. Leah’s journey from a software engineer at IBM to a pioneering businesswoman showcases […]

  • Travels from: San Francisco, CA
  • STEM Speakers
  • (37)
Nina Schick

Nina Schick is a globally recognized keynote speaker, author, and leading expert on disinformation, artificial intelligence, and the evolving landscape of global politics. With a keen focus on how emerging technologies are reshaping democracy and international relations, Nina has become a sought-after voice in the intersection of technology, media, and policy. Her insights provide invaluable […]

  • Travels from: London, UK
  • Artificial Intelligence
  • (36)
Olympia LePoint - Rocket Science Meets Real Life

Olympia LePoint is a force of inspiration—a rocket scientist turned keynote speaker who transforms complex science into compelling stories of triumph, innovation, and human potential. Known globally for her groundbreaking work with NASA’s Space Shuttle Program, Olympia brings unmatched credibility and charisma to every stage she graces. With her riveting presence and profound storytelling, she […]

  • Travels from: Los Angeles, CA
  • AI Technology Speakers
  • (25)
Sol-Rashidi-logo

With a pivotal role in launching IBM’s Watson in 2011, a groundbreaking application of Artificial Intelligence on a global scale, Sol Rashidi has consistently been a trailblazer in the ideation, conceptualization, design, and development of Data & AI applications. Boasting over three dozen large-scale implementations and a remarkable record, Sol holds eight granted patents, with […]

  • Travels from: Miami, FL
  • Artificial Intelligence
  • (26)

Col. Nicole Malachowski, USAF (Ret.) defies stereotypes. Yes, she was a jet fighter pilot, but if you think you know her based on that, you’d be wrong. A leader, a combat veteran, the first woman pilot on the Thunderbirds Air Demonstration Squadron, a White House Fellow, and an inductee into both the National Women’s Hall […]

  • Travels from: Washington, DC
  • Leadership Speakers
  • (43)
Deborah Berebichez

Déborah Berebichez is the first Mexican woman to obtain a Ph.D. in physics from Stanford University. Her passion is to empower young people to learn science and to improve the state of STEM education (science, technology, engineering and math) in the world. Her education and background help her to make science accessible to a wide range […]

  • Travels from: New York, NY
  • STEM Speakers
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 2025.  Designed using Voxel