TOP 100 SOUTH CAROLINA KEYNOTE SPEAKERS FOR CORPORATE EVENTS, CONVENTIONS & CONFERENCES

Top 100 South Carolina keynote speakers, Charleston futurists and Columbia thought leaders point out that the state is home to a dynamic and diverse group of keynote authorities from tech innovators to business tycoons, celebrities, and inspiring leaders. Whether they are founders, CEOs, or Top 100 South Carolina keynote speakers experts from various industries such as technology, finance, retail, hospitality, beauty, healthcare, and more, advisors captivate audiences with their insights, vision, and experiences.

If you’re an event planner booking a conference, convention or corporate meeting, it helps to know who’s trending in the area. We’ve built a  comprehensive Top 100 South Carolina keynote speakers list for your review, including a wide array of high-profile figures from across the business and entertainment sectors.

1. Scott Steinberg

Founder and CEO of FutureProof Strategies: The Futurist Consulting Firm, a leading celebrity speaker and futurist consultant for 3000 brands on technology trends and innovation, specializing in consumer tech, AI, and future industries.

2. Darla Moore

Co-owner of the SC Gamecocks football team and influential Top 100 South Carolina keynote speakers businesswoman in finance and philanthropy.

3. James Clyburn

U.S. Representative from South Carolina, known for his leadership and influence in the political arena.

4. Pat Conroy (Deceased)

Famous author of The Prince of Tides, whose literary insights are a draw for educational and inspirational speaking.

5. Michael Jordan

NBA legend and Top 100 South Carolina keynote speakers entrepreneur, influential in sports business, philanthropy, and marketing.

6. Andrew Clyde

CEO and Founder of Clyde’s Foundation, Andrew has significant influence in manufacturing and community-focused initiatives.

7. Shane Tolbert

Founder of Tolbert Global, an AI-based tech startup in South Carolina, known for speaking on future technologies and disruptive innovations.

8. Elizabeth Colson

CEO of Colson Group, a leader in logistics and shipping, Colson speaks on manufacturing efficiencies and future of transportation.

9. Mia Hamm

Legendary U.S. soccer player and co-owner of a sports technology firm. She is a popular keynote speaker on leadership and teamwork.

10. Connie Malloy

Founder and CEO of Malloy Enterprises, a consultancy that works with hospitality businesses to improve customer experience and operations.

11. Chad McPhail

Co-Founder of NextEra Digital, a technology and AI services company based in Charleston.

12. Misty Copeland

Principal dancer at American Ballet Theatre and advocate for diversity in the arts, Misty has inspired audiences across various sectors.

13. Penny McCurry

President of McCurry Marketing, a branding expert specializing in retail and consumer packaged goods (CPG).

14. Randell Stokes

Founder and CEO of Stokes Logistics, a shipping and supply chain company, Randell is an expert on the future of logistics.

15. Tim Scott

U.S. Senator from South Carolina, known for his thought leadership on economic development, finance, and community empowerment.

16. Bradley Kilgore

Chef and restaurateur, Bradley frequently speaks on the intersections of creativity, hospitality, and entrepreneurship.

17. Barbara Melvin

CEO of South Carolina Ports Authority, a leader in international trade and logistics, focusing on economic impact and innovation.

18. Mark Sanford

Former Governor of South Carolina and a strong voice on fiscal policy, public service, and innovation in government.

19. Brittany Blackwell

Founder and CEO of B. Blackwell Enterprises, a forward-thinking company specializing in beauty and wellness products.

20. Sarah Blakely

Top 100 South Carolina keynote speakers, founder of Spanx and philanthropist, frequently featured at business and women’s empowerment conferences.

21. David Beasley

Executive Director of the World Food Programme, formerly Governor of South Carolina, a leader in humanitarian issues.

22. Rick Hendrick

Founder and Chairman of Hendrick Automotive Group, a highly successful entrepreneur in the automotive sector.

23. Ashley Hinson

Vice President of Growth at Synnex, Ashley speaks on tech growth, entrepreneurship, and corporate leadership.

24. Ken Loper

Founder of LoperTech, a company innovating in AI-driven software solutions for the healthcare and tech industries.

25. Amanda Miller

Founder and CEO of Local Works, a consultancy on digital marketing, branding, and tech development for small businesses.

26. Brian Anderson

CEO of Anderson Logistics, one of the top firms in supply chain management and freight forwarding.

27. Donnie McClurkin

Award-winning gospel singer and preacher, known for his speeches on faith, personal development, and overcoming adversity.

28. Carla Harris

Vice Chairman of Morgan Stanley, and renowned author and speaker on leadership and diversity in finance.

29. Dr. Julie K. Silver

Medical director at Harvard Medical School, a renowned speaker on healthcare innovation and leadership in medicine.

30. David Moore

Founder and CEO of Moore Global Consulting, focusing on global supply chain management and business development.

31. Alyssa Milano

Actress and activist, speaking on women’s rights, diversity, and inclusion in business and entertainment.

32. Jeffrey Pfeffer

Professor at Stanford University, leading expert on organizational behavior and leadership strategies.

33. Renee Jones

Founder of the Jones Group, a strategic consultancy in the financial sector that focuses on financial literacy and empowerment.

34. Travis Kalanick

Founder of Uber, Travis speaks on disruptive innovation, entrepreneurship, and the future of transportation technology.

35. Nina Garcia

Creative Director of Elle Magazine and Project Runway judge, a key voice in fashion and creative leadership.

36. Dr. Terry Graham

Founder of Graham Healthcare Systems, known for speaking on leadership in healthcare management.

37. William D. Green

Former Chairman of Accenture, recognized for his thought leadership on digital transformation and global business strategies.

38. Oprah Winfrey

Media mogul and philanthropist, Oprah’s speeches often center around personal growth, resilience, and leadership.

39. Bob Chapman

CEO of Barry-Wehmiller, a pioneer in people-centric leadership, focused on building compassionate work cultures.

40. Dr. Tom Frieden

Former Director of the CDC, a sought-after expert on public health and epidemic preparedness.

41. Joe Moglia

Chairman of TD Ameritrade, former CEO of TD Ameritrade and College Football Coach, an inspiring figure in business and sports leadership.

42. Gina Raimondo

U.S. Secretary of Commerce, focusing on economic policy and the future of technology and manufacturing.

43. Dr. Atul Gawande

Surgeon, writer, and public health leader known for his work in healthcare policy and leadership.

44. Melinda Gates

Co-chair of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, an advocate for global development and women’s empowerment.

45. Marcus Lemonis

CEO of Camping World and star of The Profit, Marcus speaks about entrepreneurship and business turnaround strategies.

46. Howard Schultz

Founder of Starbucks, Howard shares his insights on entrepreneurship, leadership, and innovation in retail.

47. John Legend

Multi-Grammy Award-winning artist, entrepreneur, and philanthropist, speaking on social justice and personal development.

48. Vernon Jordan

Civil rights leader and former presidential advisor, speaking on leadership, public service, and diversity.

49. Tony Robbins

Motivational speaker and author, Tony’s seminars inspire individuals to reach their full potential in life and business.

50. Michael Bloomberg

Founder of Bloomberg L.P., former Mayor of New York, and philanthropist, Michael speaks on business leadership, innovation, and politics.

51. Ted Turner

Founder of CNN and philanthropist, known for speaking on global media, environmental sustainability, and corporate social responsibility.

52. Reed Hastings

Co-founder of Netflix, an expert on innovation, business scaling, and the digital entertainment revolution.

53. Sally Krawcheck

CEO of Ellevest and a leading voice for women in finance, she advocates for economic equality and leadership in business.

54. Jeff Bezos

Founder of Amazon, Jeff speaks on innovation, business strategy, and the future of e-commerce.

55. Bill Gates

Co-founder of Microsoft and philanthropist, Bill is a sought-after speaker on technology, global health, and education reform.

56. Barbara Corcoran

Real estate mogul and Shark Tank investor, Barbara talks about entrepreneurship, personal branding, and overcoming challenges.

57. Dr. Neil deGrasse Tyson

Astrophysicist and science communicator, inspiring audiences to appreciate science, technology, and the universe.

58. Richard Branson

Founder of Virgin Group, Richard is a leader in entrepreneurship and adventure, focusing on business innovation and risk-taking.

59. Sheryl Sandberg

Former COO of Facebook, author of Lean In, and a champion for women in leadership and organizational behavior.

60. Simon Sinek

Author of Start with Why, Simon inspires audiences to lead with purpose and drive organizational success.

61. Tim Ferriss

Author of The 4-Hour Workweek, Tim is a leading voice on personal productivity, entrepreneurship, and unconventional living.

62. Indra Nooyi

Former CEO of PepsiCo, a renowned leader in business, sustainability, and global corporate strategy.

63. Gary Vaynerchuk

Entrepreneur, author, and CEO of VaynerMedia, Gary speaks on digital marketing, social media, and entrepreneurship.

64. Melanie Perkins

Co-founder and CEO of Canva, a leader in design software and innovation, Melanie inspires on creativity, tech, and entrepreneurship.

65. Daniel Pink

Author of Drive and To Sell is Human, Daniel is an expert on motivation, behavioral science, and leadership.

66. Jeff Weiner

Former CEO of LinkedIn, Jeff speaks on leadership, organizational culture, and scaling successful tech companies.

67. Hoda Kotb

Co-anchor of Today and best-selling author, Hoda shares her personal journey, leadership, and resilience.

68. Sarah Blakely

Founder of Spanx, Sarah is a powerful advocate for women’s empowerment and entrepreneurial leadership.

69. Gail Kelly

Former CEO of Westpac, one of Australia’s largest banks, known for her leadership in the finance and banking sectors.

70. Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson

Actor, entrepreneur, and former professional wrestler, Dwayne speaks on leadership, personal development, and business success.

71. Reed Hastings

Co-founder and CEO of Netflix, Reed speaks about the evolution of entertainment and innovation in the digital age.

72. Arianna Huffington

Founder of HuffPost and Thrive Global, Arianna speaks on wellness, leadership, and finding success without sacrificing well-being.

73. Brene Brown

Researcher and author of Daring Greatly, Brene speaks on vulnerability, courage, and leadership in both personal and professional settings.

74. Howard Schultz

Former CEO of Starbucks, Howard speaks on corporate culture, leadership, and scaling a globally recognized brand.

75. Richard Branson

Founder of Virgin Group, Richard is known for his adventurous spirit, leadership, and focus on innovation in business.

76. Maya Angelou (Deceased)

Iconic poet, author, and civil rights activist, Maya’s words on resilience, leadership, and social justice continue to inspire audiences.

77. Susan Cain

Author of Quiet, Susan is a speaker on the power of introverts, workplace dynamics, and leadership in quieter individuals.

78. Angela Ahrendts

Former SVP of Retail at Apple, Angela is an expert in luxury retail, customer experience, and leadership.

79. Chris Gardner

Entrepreneur and inspiration behind the movie The Pursuit of Happyness, Chris speaks about overcoming adversity and achieving success.

80. Tim Cook

CEO of Apple, Tim speaks on innovation, leadership, and the future of technology and design.

81. Jim Collins

Author of Good to Great, Jim shares insights into building enduring companies and leadership excellence.

82. Tanya Van Court

Founder of Goalsetter, an expert in financial literacy and education, Tanya speaks on empowering young people through financial planning.

83. Craig Newmark

Founder of Craigslist, Craig shares his journey in tech entrepreneurship and insights into social impact and business ethics.

84. Sophia Amoruso

Founder of Nasty Gal and author of #GIRLBOSS, Sophia is a sought-after speaker on entrepreneurship and empowering women in business.

85. Danielle Strachman

Co-founder of 1517 Fund, an investor and speaker focusing on tech startups, entrepreneurship, and the future of work.

86. Paul Polman

Former CEO of Unilever, Paul is an advocate for sustainability and ethical leadership in business.

87. James Cameron

Academy Award-winning director and entrepreneur, James speaks on creativity, innovation, and leadership in the film industry.

88. Marie Forleo

Entrepreneur, author, and host of MarieTV, Marie shares insights on business, mindset, and creating a fulfilling career.

89. Kevin O’Leary

Investor and star of Shark Tank, Kevin is known for his no-nonsense approach to business and entrepreneurship.

90. Barbara Walters

Broadcasting legend, Barbara speaks on leadership, resilience, and the evolution of media.

91. Tory Burch

Founder of Tory Burch LLC, an advocate for women in business, Tory speaks on entrepreneurship, design, and social impact.

92. Jill Biden

First Lady of the United States, educator, and advocate for military families, Jill speaks on leadership, education, and service.

93. Stedman Graham

Author and educator, Stedman speaks on personal development, leadership, and empowerment.

94. Katie Couric

Journalist and media personality, Katie speaks on leadership in the media, resilience, and the evolution of news.

95. Danielle Leong

Founder of Leong Innovations, a firm specializing in AI and machine learning for business applications.

96. Tyler Perry

Filmmaker and philanthropist, Tyler shares insights on entrepreneurship, creativity, and overcoming adversity in the entertainment industry.

97. Lori Greiner

Inventor and entrepreneur, Lori is known for her role on Shark Tank and is an expert on product development and entrepreneurship.

98. Dr. Sheryl Sandberg

Former COO of Facebook and author of Lean In, Sheryl is a leader in tech, gender equity, and organizational leadership.

99. Sundar Pichai

CEO of Alphabet and Google, Sundar speaks about innovation, tech leadership, and the future of AI and digital transformation.

100. Sam Altman

CEO of OpenAI, Sam is known for his groundbreaking work in technology, artificial intelligence and disruptive innovation.