RootsTech 2026 Call for Presentations

Call for Presentations is Open!

1. Genealogical research methodologies and best practices
2. Getting started in family history
3. Exploring historical records and archives
4. Preserving and organizing genealogical data
5. Using technology, including the use of artificial intelligence, for genealogical research.
6. Genetic genealogy and its applications
7. Ethnic and cultural genealogy
8. Tracing lineage and ancestral connections
9. Collaboration and networking in genealogy
10. Preserving photos and stories
11. Oral Histories

Submission Guidelines

1. Proposed class title—short (75 characters or less) and interesting. People should have a general idea of the class topic from the title. This is the title participants will see in the session list.
   
   Class description: In 200 words or less, describe the class as you would to participants. This is what participants will see in the session list.
   
   • This is important—What problem to be solved or task to be done does this class address?
   • This is important—What should attendees be able to do or apply after this class?
   • What skill level will people need to be successful in this class? Beginner, intermediate, advanced, or professional. What prerequisite knowledge should learners have? Will participants need to bring a laptop, tablet, or device to the session?
   • What is the format for this class? 
     
     • Panel discussion: a 60-minute panel discussion that includes a 15-minute Q&A. All panel participants must be identified at the time of the proposal. 
     • Lecture: a 60-minute lecture-style session. This should include a 15-minute Q&A. 
     • Power Hour: a 60-minute fast-paced and high-energy session. This should include 3 speakers each taking 15 minutes to talk about one aspect of a larger topic. Each Power Hour should include a 15-minute Q&A at the end.  
     • Webinars are 60 minutes, including a 15-minute Q&A and are online from anywhere in the world you have a stable internet connection. 
     • Prerecorded sessions should not exceed 20 minutes and focus on one topic or idea. 
       
   
   Include a brief outline of the class so we understand your proposal.
   
   Note: A syllabus is required for each class session. We also require all slide decks to be submitted for review in advance. We will not share your slides with participants unless you would like us to.
   
   
2. Include a brief biography and contact information for all presenters. Include your background and public-speaking and teaching experience. Why are you the right person or people to speak on this topic?
3. Proposals must be submitted online no later than June 30, 2025.

Evaluation Process

• Competitive pay of US$150.00 per 60-minute class.
• Competitive pay of US$100.00 per 20-minute class prerecorded class.
• Complimentary RootsTech conference pass. 
• Hotel allowance per day of speaking for those presenting in Salt Lake City and live more than 50 miles from the Salt Palace Convention Center.  
• Speakers residing in the United States and Canada required to travel more than 50 miles to RootsTech receive a travel allowance of US$100 per day of speaking. Speakers traveling from other countries may receive a travel allowance of up to US$1,000.  
• All speakers presenting in Salt Lake City will receive a per diem of $35 to help cover costs incurred such as parking on the days you speak. 

Important Dates

• Submission deadline: June 30, 2025, at 11:59 PM  
• Notification of acceptance: Late August, 2025 
• Prerecorded classes due December 8, 2025
• Syllabi and slides for live classes are due January 26, 2026
• Conference dates: March 5–March 7, 2026