Our Mission
TED stands for Technology, Entertainment, and Design. We believe that these three areas are interconnected and can be used to create a better world.
In 1984, Ted Turner founded The Learning Channel (TLC), which became the first cable television channel to focus on educational programming. Later, he co-founded CNN, which expanded the definition of news and entertainment. In 2005, TED was launched by Chris Anderson, who wanted to create a community of innovators and thinkers.
Today, TED is a global network of over 500,000 members from more than 150 countries, including leaders, scientists, artists, and entrepreneurs. We aim to bring people together to share ideas, inspire action, and create a better future for all.
Our History
TED was founded in 1984 by Ted Turner, with the goal of creating a new kind of television channel that would showcase the world's most interesting and innovative ideas.
In the early years, TED focused on programming that was both entertaining and informative. However, as the network grew, it began to take on more ambitious projects, including documentaries, series, and online content.
Today, TED is known for its iconic speakers, who come from a wide range of fields and backgrounds. From scientists like Richard Feynman and Brian Greene to artists like David Bowie and Takashi Murakami, TED has featured some of the most fascinating minds in history.
Our Organization
TED is a non-profit organization that relies on donations from its members to support its mission. We are governed by a Board of Directors, which includes leaders and experts from around the world.
We operate in several countries, including the United States, China, India, and Turkey. In addition to our main office in Boston, we have offices in cities like New York, London, and Dubai.
Our team of professionals is dedicated to creating high-quality content that inspires and educates audiences around the world. We work with partners from a wide range of industries, including media, technology, and education.
Current Programs
- TED Talks: Our flagship series features short, powerful talks on a wide range of topics, from science and technology to art and culture.
- TED Conferences: We host biennial conferences that bring together innovators and thinkers to share ideas and inspire action.
- TED.com: Our online platform offers free content, including articles, videos, and podcasts, as well as a community forum for discussion and engagement.