The National Geographic Society has presented speakers of substance since its inception in 1888—even before there was a National Geographic magazine.

Since then our speakers have shared exciting discoveries, scientific breakthroughs, and pioneering expeditions supported by National Geographic—endeavors led by legends such as polar explorer Sir Ernest Shackleton, aviators Charles Lindbergh and Amelia Earhart, primatologist Jane Goodall, deep-sea explorer Robert Ballard, and anthropologist Richard Leakey.

In 2003 we launched the National Geographic Speakers Bureau to extend the reach of our talented speakers beyond the events we produce for the public at our headquarters in Washington, D.C., and in cities across the United States.

Each speaker we represent has a strong connection to National Geographic. In many cases National Geographic has funded the speaker's fieldwork, research project, or expedition.

Often the speaker is a regular contributor to National Geographic media, including any of our five magazines, books, website, the National Geographic Channel, and National Geographic Television & Film.

Our speakers are among the most accomplished and dynamic individuals in their fields—but that's only the beginning. The National Geographic Speakers Bureau also has a rigorous selection process to ensure that each speaker is highly accomplished at communicating his or her stories and messages to a live audience.

The National Geographic Society is one of the world's largest nonprofit scientific and educational institutions. Its mission is to increase and diffuse geographic knowledge while promoting the conservation of the world's cultural, historical, and natural resources.

A portion of each speaker's fee goes to fund future research, exploration, conservation, and education initiatives.