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

  • (19)
Steve Serio cover 2

New York native, Steve Serio, has been playing wheelchair basketball since high school, where he was quickly named MVP of the National Junior Championship Tournament. From there, he racked up many more championships and MVP titles, including medaling at Worlds (2 silvers, 1 bronze) and competed in three Paralympic Games (1 gold, 1 bronze) with […]

  • Travels from: New York, NY
  • Sporting Speakers
  • (11)
DJ Liz Clark

Renowned as a favorite among Las Vegas locals, DJ Liz Clark is more than just a mobile DJ; she is a powerhouse of talent, ambition, and sheer charisma. With an infectious energy and a deep passion for music, Liz has built a reputation for crafting electrifying experiences that resonate with audiences of all ages. Whether […]

  • Travels from: Las Vegas, NV
  • Mobile DJ
  • (13)
Bjørn Heyerdahl

Bjørn Heyerdahl is more than just an explorer or environmentalist. He embodies the legacy of his lineage, stretching back to the iconic Viking era, and channels it into a modern narrative of sustainability, adventure, and humanitarianism. As an internationally recognized speaker and consultant, Bjørn Heyerdahl brings a unique blend of ancestral wisdom, personal grit, and […]

  • Travels from: Toronto, ON
  • Motivational Speakers
  • (10)
Chad Hymas - Image 09 (April 2, 2026)

Chad Hymas is a globally recognized safety keynote speaker whose profound messages of responsibility, leadership, and engagement have transformed individuals and organizations worldwide. His life-altering experience, coupled with his exceptional storytelling ability, makes him a pivotal presence at any event, driving home the importance of workplace safety and personal accountability. Chad Hymas’s journey to becoming […]

  • Travels from: Salt Lake City, UT
  • Safety Speakers
  • (17)
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
  • (15)
Marilyn Sherman - Image 01 (March 25, 2026)

Marilyn Sherman, CSP, CPAE — Hall of Fame Business Keynote Speaker & Founder of UpFront Presentations  Marilyn Sherman, Hall of Fame business keynote speaker, has spent her career inspiring people to get out of their comfort zones and take their seat in the “Front-Row” of life and leadership. As founder of UpFront Presentations, Marilyn has […]

  • Travels from: Las Vegas, NV
  • Peak Performance
  • (51)
Angela Gargano - Image 18 (April 1, 2026)

Angela Gargano is a keynote speaker, 6x American Ninja Warrior, Miss Fitness America, 3x Covergirl biochemist-turned-coach, and founder of a global movement that’s helped thousands of women accomplish what once felt impossible, starting with their first pull-up. After tearing her ACL live on national television, Angela didn’t just recover she redefined herself. She turned a […]

  • Travels from: Austin, TX
  • Resilience Speakers
  • (10)
Jon Youshaei - Image 05 (January 27, 2026)

With a remarkable career spanning across two of the most influential platforms in the digital world, Jon Youshaei is a speaker on marketing and content creation. Recognized by Inc Magazine as the individual who has “cracked the code to going viral,” Jon’s journey has been nothing short of exceptional. Having honed his expertise during five […]

  • Travels from: Los Angeles, CA
  • Marketing 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 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.