TEDxBatonRouge Makes History as TED Countdown Anchor Event

by Tracy Mathis

TEDxBatonRouge 2025 Unseen Currents theme TED Countdown Anchor Event at Manship Theatre Baton Rouge November 13 featuring climate solutions and Louisiana innovators

Thursday, November 13th, Baton Rouge takes center stage as TEDxBatonRouge hosts one of only 18 TED Countdown Anchor Events worldwide—and one of just two in North America. Out of more than 3,600 TED events happening globally this year, Baton Rouge earned this prestigious recognition for its event at the Manship Theatre.

What This Means

TED Countdown is a global initiative designed to accelerate solutions to the climate crisis. Being named a Countdown Anchor Event isn't just an honor—it's a statement about Baton Rouge's role in addressing one of the most urgent challenges of our time.

According to 225 Magazine's coverage, this year's theme is "Unseen Currents," with a focus on elevating Louisiana-born solutions at the intersection of science, design, health, and culture. The event addresses climate pressures Louisiana faces daily—coastal land loss, air quality, heat—while highlighting innovations that protect livelihoods and strengthen our economy.

Why Baton Rouge?

"Being recognized and named a TED Countdown Anchor Event provides us an even greater opportunity to showcase how South Louisiana—long seen as ground zero for climate change—can also be a hub for climate solutions," said Melissa Thompson, TEDxBatonRouge co-organizer, in Business Report's announcement.

Baton Rouge sits at a unique intersection: industrial hub, university town, cultural center, and frontline community for climate impacts. This combination positions the city to develop real-world solutions that could benefit communities far beyond Louisiana.

The Speaker Lineup

  • Rebeca de Jesús Crespo, integrative ecologist tracing connections between land, water, and health
  • Damien Mitchell, industrial designer challenging hyperconsumerism
  • And several other Louisiana innovators working on climate solutions

Beyond the talks, the event features interactive activation stations, performances, and hands-on experiences showcasing climate innovations from South Louisiana and beyond.

Event Details - Thursday!

When: November 13, 2025 (Thursday!)

Where: Manship Theatre, Baton Rouge

Time: Networking and activation stations from 4:30-6 PM, main event 6:30-8 PM, after-party 8-9:30 PM

Tickets: $81 for general admission, with discounted student tickets available

Why This Matters for Baton Rouge

Recognition like this elevates the entire city. It attracts talent, investment, and attention. It tells young people considering whether to stay in Louisiana that innovative work is happening right here. It shows companies looking to relocate that Baton Rouge is forward-thinking and engaged with global challenges.

Whether you're able to attend tomorrow's TEDxBatonRouge event or not, the fact that this is happening—and earning global recognition—says something important about where this city is headed. Read what our clients say about calling Baton Rouge home and explore what makes this city special.

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