Fast Company Festival: Speakers Share 12 Rules for Innovation

Fast Company is releasing 12 rules for innovation from speakers participating in its upcoming Innovation Festival. The publication asked participants for their definition of innovation in 2026 and their most critical piece of advice. The event is scheduled to take place in New York from September 14-17.

Defining Innovation in 2026

Speakers offered varied perspectives on what innovation means for the coming years:

• Martha Stewart emphasized that technology should make knowledge more useful and accessible, without replacing human judgment.
• Sean Sherman focused on creating sustainable solutions for future generations, referencing Lakota values of considering seven generations ahead.
• Lindsay Shumlas, CEO of Cotopaxi, highlighted the importance of deeply understanding consumers and challenging long-held assumptions to drive meaningful action.
• Björn Gulden, CEO of Adidas, stated that innovation starts with athletes and consumers, centering on meeting their needs.

Top Rules for Innovation

Among the key rules shared were:

• Jake Bullock, CEO of Cann, advises designing for an 'N of 1' to create compelling products rather than generic committee-produced ones.
• Melis del Rey, CEO of Supergoop, recommended not falling in love with a solution before the problem is clearly understood.
• Bob the Drag Queen noted that failure is acceptable and perfectionism can be a hindrance.
• Brooke Ellis, Chief Design Officer at Block, urged protecting the path to the unexpected, as innovation requires space for human curiosity and imagination.

The festival aims to provide attendees with inspiration and new perspectives. Sessions are expected to encourage self-belief and the pursuit of diverse ideas, while stressing the value of customer feedback and continuous evolution.