TED began in 1984 as a conference on Technology, Entertainment, and Design, but it wasn’t until TED Talks went online in 2006 that the brand went global. Building on this success, TEDx launched in 2009 to allow independently organized events, with the first one- TEDxUSC, held at a university. Since then, campuses worldwide have become TEDx hotspots.

Universities provide the perfect ecosystem: professors are skilled communicators, students excel at organizing, and campuses are natural hubs of fresh ideas. TEDx events give colleges a chance to showcase their intellectual culture, boost reputation, and foster collaboration across disciplines.

For students, the experience goes far beyond attending talks. Organizing TEDx is like running a startup, handling licenses, sponsorships, speakers, and promotions. It builds confidence, leadership, and real-world skills. Attending offers equal value, exposing young minds to diverse perspectives, inspiring success stories, and sparking curiosity.

Today, TEDx spans 173 countries and has hosted over 44,000 events. On campuses, it represents more than just a stage, it’s a platform for creativity, confidence, and community-building, ensuring that the spirit of “ideas worth spreading” thrives with every generation.