Select a speaker and topic at least seven weeks before your event date, and contact her/him directly to set up the date for your event. These speakers have busy schedules, so it is advisable to have some alternate dates to propose. Tell the speaker what kind of audience to expect and your estimated attendance. All programs should run about one hour – usually 45 minutes for the presentation and 15 minutes for discussion.

Apply online or mail a paper application form to IHC at least six weeks before your event date. Use a separate application form for each speaker/event. IHC reserves the right to deny applications not received with the required 6 weeks of lead time.

Application Fee/Sponsor Responsibilities – A $50 fee per presentation is due with the application. Please make checks payable to: Idaho Humanities Council, also credit card payment is welcome. The sponsoring group is also responsible for the event planning, publicity, meeting space, sending supplied postcards to the Idaho congressional delegation and for completing and returning a brief evaluation of the event. IHC will pay the speaker's honorarium and travel expenses directly. IHC reimburses the speaker for travel, lodging and meals in accordance with IHC travel policies.

IHC will notify you and the speaker immediately by email (if available), and complete the process by sending an approval packet with forms and other information. If requested, you will also receive a digital file for a flier to help publicize your event. Two weeks prior to your presentation date, if you have not received the packet of materials from IHC, please call the office to verify receipt of your application. Please store your IHC packet of materials carefully – you will need it just before and after your event.

Marketing your event early and effectively is the key to success. Advertise the event sufficiently to assure an audience of at least 20 people. This is the minimum needed to make the cost reasonable for IHC and worthwhile for the speaker. Please do not just assume 20 people will show up....it is your responsibility to have them there. Marketing ideas and strategies are included in your packet.

One week before your event, call the speaker to confirm all arrangements. This is a good time to ask if they have made motel reservations and suggest a local motel that is appropriate, if they have not.

Please contact Wilma Bowler, Speakers Bureau Coordinator, for assistance or more information about the Speakers Bureau. We are always happy to suggest speakers to meet your needs.

888-345-5346 or wilma@idahohumanities.org