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

    • (20)
    Alexandra Carter - Image 08 (January 27, 2026)

    Alexandra Carter is a Clinical Professor of Law and the Director of the Mediation Clinic at Columbia Law School. In 2019, Professor Carter was awarded the Columbia University Presidential Award for Outstanding Teaching, Columbia’s highest teaching honor. Her first book, Ask for More: Ten Questions to Negotiate Anything, was published by Simon & Schuster on […]

    • Travels from: New York, NY
    • Negotiation Speakers
    • (8)

    Colin O’Brady is a world-record-breaking endurance athlete and a pioneering force in adventure and motivation. Known for his awe-inspiring achievements, including becoming the first person to cross Antarctica solo, unsupported, and unassisted, Colin captivates audiences worldwide with his story of courage, resilience, and pushing human potential beyond limits. With his keynote speaking engagements, he doesn’t […]

    • Travels from: Jackson, WY
    • Adventure Speakers
    • (43)
    • (4)
    Jay Baer, Standing Ovation Podcast

    Jay Baer is a Hall of Fame speaker who illuminates pathways to business growth through the twin pillars of customer experience and marketing innovation. With a career spanning decades, Jay has not only achieved acclaim as a speaker but has also carved out a reputation as an accomplished emcee and host, effortlessly guiding large events […]

    • Travels from: Bloomington, IN
    • Customer Experience
    • (19)
    Ellie Shefi

    Ellie Shefi epitomizes resilience and determination. Despite enduring a lifetime of challenges, including abuse, homelessness, cancer, and ongoing health struggles, Ellie has consistently defied the odds and embraced a life of empowerment and service to others. Her journey is a testament to the power of mindset, resilience, and resourcefulness. As an attorney, entrepreneur, best-selling author, […]

    • Travels from: Nashville, TN
    • GBV Speakers
    • (50)
    Alencia Johnson - Image 06 (January 27, 2026)

    Alencia Johnson is a dynamic voice in social justice and culture change, with over a decade of experience at the forefront of activism, politics, corporate strategy, and entertainment. A trailblazer in integrating these cultural cornerstones, Alencia has built a reputation as a transformational leader who drives action through storytelling and advocacy.  Alencia Johnson’s expertise lies […]

    • Travels from: Washington, DC
    • Leadership Speakers
    • (6)
    Barry Allen Cohen

    Here’s everything you get when you book with A Touch Of Class: Extremely talented DJ, Emcee Singer, Guitarist, ultimate music playlists, continuous music, music consultation, venue site visit, full professional state-of-the-art sound and lighting production, set up and breakdown. Being a musician in addition to being a Wedding DJ gives you the best of both […]

    • Travels from: Rancho Santa Fe, CA
    • Mobile DJ
    • (16)
    Amy Blankson

    Amy Blankson is a dynamic force in the realms of positivity, digital wellness, and happiness. As the CEO of Fearless Positivity and the Co-Founder of the Digital Wellness Institute, she leads with a mission to empower individuals and organizations to thrive in the digital age. Amy’s multidisciplinary expertise, coupled with her engaging speaking style, has […]

    • Travels from: Fort Worth. TX
    • Happiness Speakers
    • (17)
    Ghida Fakhry - Image 01 (April 15, 2026)

    Ghida Fakhry is an internationally recognized broadcast journalist, moderator, and corporate event host with over 25 years of experience in the global media landscape. Having worked for prominent news organizations such as Al Jazeera, Ghida has established herself as a trusted voice on international affairs, global politics, and media. As a dynamic moderator and opinion […]

    • Travels from: Washington, DC
    • Business Emcees
    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.

    Speakers Inc.

    Connecting you with the perfect speaker.

    We connect you with world-class speakers to create impactful, memorable events.

    Find the Perfect Speaker

    Tell us about your event and we’ll match you with the right speaker.

    © 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.