Call for Student “What If?” Lightning Talks

At this year’s conference, we are opening the stage to a select group of student speakers who will deliver short, powerful lightning talks built around one central provocation.

Theme: “What If?”

Each talk begins with one central question that is ambitious enough to spark new thinking yet anchored in real-world dynamics. These questions should stretch our imagination while staying connected to emerging science, policy shifts, market behavior, or technological trajectories. The goal is to explore futures that could meaningfully shape business, society, and climate decisions. 

  • A 5–10 minute talk built around a realistic but provocative “What if?” that challenges entrenched assumptions, traces out implications and consequences, inspires fresh thinking about how climate, policy, and markets might evolve, and reflects your authentic perspective and curiosity. 

    Talks may explore: 

    • Alternate histories: paths we didn't take and what they reveal

    • Future scenarios: plausible developments and their implications

    • Unexpected consequences: second and third-order effects

    • Radical reframings: what if the problem isn't what we think it is?

    • Technological breakthroughs: what unlocks if X succeeds?

    • Market dynamics: shifts that could reshape industries

    • Social change: cultural transformations and their climate impacts

    • Systems thinking: what if we changed one variable in a complex system?

    • Share your perspective with peers and industry leaders

    • Contribute to shaping the climate conversation at the GSB

    • Build experience presenting ideas that influence how others think

    • Join a cohort of students passionate about climate innovation

  • Submit through the Google Form: https://forms.gle/EZoB4xzKbCoheCD96 

    • Your "What If" question

    • Brief outline of how you'd explore it

    • Why this question matters

    A fully polished talk is not required at submission. Selected speakers will receive support and coaching from the organizing team.

    • Step 1: Submit your proposal via the Google Form by January 9th

    • Step 2: Shortlisted candidates will be invited for a brief 15-minute call to discuss your vision and answer any questions

    • Step 3: Final speakers will be notified by January 14th 

  • We're looking for talks that push our thinking into new territory. Submissions will be evaluated on:

    1. Originality of the Question 

      • Opens up new lines of inquiry

      • Challenges conventional assumptions or explores uncharted territory

      • Makes us think differently about climate action

    2. Depth of Exploration 

      • Thoughtfully traces implications and consequences

      • Shows rigorous thinking about the scenario

      • Considers multiple dimensions (economic, social, political, environmental)

    3. Relevance & Insight

      • Surfaces real tensions or opportunities that matter now

      • Generates insights applicable to current challenges

      • Helps the audience think more clearly about climate decisions

    4. Authenticity & Voice 

      • Genuine curiosity and engagement with the question

      • Original thinking that reflects your unique perspective

      • Intellectual courage and willingness to explore unconventional ideas

We look forward to exploring the possibilities with you!

Questions? Email gsb_climateinnovation@lists.stanford.edu

If you need a disability-related accommodation or wheelchair access information, please contact the event organizers at gsb_climateinnovation@lists.stanford.edu.