FUTURE READY: Reimagining, Collaborating and Transforming 2024 SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES AND PACKAGES
Welcome JOZELLE BOOKER President and CEO, MMBC Continuum Operator, Tennessee MBDA Business Center For 17 years, the MMBC Continuum has presented its regional conference here in the Mid-South (Tennessee, Mississippi and Arkansas). The Economic Development Forum (EDF) convenes national thought leaders, representatives from all levels of government, corporate representatives, minority-owned and women-owned business enterprises (M/WBEs), representatives from the M/WBE economic and advocacy ecosystem, and the greater community. Over the years, the EDF has: Assembled a lineup of national thought leaders, consultants, and distinguished speakers to present groundbreaking research findings, insights, and data as compelling evidence in support of M/WBE engagement, corporate procurement policies, diverse corporate governance, and economic strategy. Presented federal, state, and local policy positions that supported or furthered corporate and M/WBE procurement engagement. Showcased proven strategies through presentations tailored for both corporate and M/WBE audiences. Provided hundreds of face-to-face corporate and M/WBE procurement connections in the Exhibition Hall. Facilitated millions of dollars in post-Exhibit Hall procurements.
WHY BECOME A 2024 EDF SPONSOR Brand Visibility and Product Exposure: As an EDF sponsor, your company will enjoy significant brand exposure among a diverse audience of business leaders, community members, and stakeholders. Further, direct interactions with attendees offer valuable insights for product introduction, development and marketing strategies. Access and Introduction to New Suppliers Your sponsorship will provide you with unique access to a range of businesses, including a diverse mix of small business owners. Seize the opportunity to make strategic connections, secure leads and collect contact information. Community Engagement: Direct engagement with the community through face-to-face interactions and networking to increase consumer and stakeholder awareness of corporate strategic priorities.
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SPECIAL THANKS TO THE 2023 SPONSORS Thank you to our 2023 EDF sponsors for your ongoing commitment to improving the economy through the inclusion of diverse suppliers.
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Special Thanks to the 2023 EDF OPENING RECEPTION SPONSORS and CONTINENTAL BREAKFAST SPONSORS
M/WBE Bronze Sponsors A-1 Electrical Contractors, Inc. Ardmore Roderick Artizan Constructors. LLC Bruce Law, PLLC Campbell & Ford Construction, Inc. The Carter Malone Group, LLC Castle Black Construction Dortch Construction Fresh Start Facility Services, Inc. Gipson Mechanical Contractors, Inc. Industrial Sales LATROBE Manufacturers Industrial Group Mid-South Drug Testing, Inc. New Visions Technical Solutions Oteka Technologies Pete Mitchell & Associates Insurance Precise Contractors Self +Tucker Architects SOL Engineering Services, LLC Stragistics Technology, Inc. Taylormade Enterprise, LLC Thomas Consultants, Inc. Veasley’s Paving Services, Inc. W & T Contracting Corporation WABTS Financial & Tax Advisors
2023 ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT FORUM
SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR 2023 EDF COMMUNITY PARTNERS
UT CIS APEX Accelerator Black Business Association City of Memphis HCD Downtown Memphis Commission Pathway Lending Tennessee Small Business Development Center (TSBDC) Unistar-Sparco Computers, Inc. Greater Memphis Chamber Youdle Memphis Area Minority Contractors Association (MAMCA) United Way of the Mid-South
Historically hosted as a luncheon in November, the Robert R. Church, Sr. Achievement Awards Gala was held immediately following the 2023 Economic Development Forum.
We, along with our guests for the evening, celebrated, rallied and engaged with local and national corporations, organizations and small businesses leading the way in diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) and making positive societal impacts. Prior to the award ceremony, our guests enjoyed live entertainment, a silent auction, networking and dancing. We also had the great honor of awarding a combination of both companies and individuals in the following eight (8) categories: Corporation of the Year M/WBE Quality Assurance Business of the Year Tennessee MBDA Business of the Year Scalable M/WBE Business of the Year D & I Heroes Award Great Beginnings Award Rising Star Award Chairman’s Circle Award
2023 Award Winners & Finalists Corporation of the Year
M/WBE Quality Assurance Business of the Year
Scalable M/WBE Business of the Year
TN MBDA Business of the Year
Winner ArchKey Solutions Finalists Memphis Light, Gas & Water Memphis-Shelby County Schools
Winner Winner W&T Contracting Corporation Unistar-Sparco Computers Finalists Finalists Precise Contracting, LLC Access Builders, LLC ServiceMaster Facilities Maintenance
D&I Heroes Award
Great Beginnings Award
Winner Lorenzol Ellis ArchKey Solutions
Winner Top Cat Masonry Contractors, LLC
Rising Star Award
Winner Kanisha Massey Memphis-Shelby County Schools
Winner W&T Contracting Corporation Finalists Top Cat Masonry Contractors, LLC Veasley’s Paving Services, Inc.
Chairman’s Award
Winner Scott Brockman President and CEO Memphis-Shelby County Airport Authority
2024 nominations will be accepted March 1 - April 30.
WHAT TO EXPECT AT EDF 2024 Economic Development Forum September 10-12, 2024 Renasant Convention Center Memphis, TN The 2024 Economic Development Forum, scheduled to take place from September 10-12 at the Renasant Convention Center in Downtown Memphis, promises to be an unparalleled event. Our theme is “Future Ready: Reimagining, Collaborating, and Transforming,” will bring together businesses of all sizes to explore the latest trends, best practices, and strategies that can be immediately applied to enhance business operations. Our commitment to fostering innovation and collaboration will be evident through a comprehensive lineup of events and opportunities that will be available throughout the two-and-a-half-day forum, which includes the following highlights: 1. A Day-Long Exhibition: Immerse yourself in interactive experiences offered by exhibitors. From demonstrations of the latest technology to hands-on workshops, the exhibition floor is designed to captivate and engage attendees in unique and memorable ways. 2. Speaking Engagements and Seminars: Industry leaders will lead insightful sessions, offering a wealth of knowledge and expertise as keynote speakers, seminar panelists and workshop presenters. 3. Numerous Networking Opportunities: The conference is designed to promote opportunities for attendees to make strategic connections. Our private, invite-only reception, bustling exhibition hall and corporate connection zone are just a few opportunities for securing new contacts. 3. The Corporate Connection Zone: In today's dynamic business landscape, finding the right partners, suppliers, or clients is essential for success. That's where our Corporate Connection Zone comes in. This is where M/WBEs engage directly with corporate decision-makers to explore potential partnerships. 4. The Capital Connection Zone: A dedicated space for M/WBEs to interact with bankers and financial experts, facilitating tailored financial solutions.
FUTURE READY:
Reimagining, Collaborating and Transforming Imagine you have a time-traveling machine, and you were able to observe the progression of your business. What would you see? More technology? New skill sets? Maybe a strategic partnership? In short, is your company or organization “future-ready”? "Future-ready companies" refers to organizations that are well-prepared and adaptable to thrive in the rapidly changing business landscape of the future. These companies anticipate and respond effectively to emerging trends, technological advancements, and shifts in consumer behavior. Characteristics of future-ready companies include: Innovation: They prioritize innovation, constantly exploring new ideas, technologies, and business models to stay ahead of the competition. Strategic Partnerships: Collaboration is key for future-ready companies. They may form strategic partnerships with other organizations, startups, or industry leaders to enhance their capabilities and stay innovative. Adaptability: Future-ready companies are flexible and able to adapt quickly to changing market conditions. They embrace change rather than resist it. So, how can companies and organizations become future-ready or increase their futurereadiness? During the 2024 Economic Development Forum, we will explore strategies in three focus areas: Reimagining, Collaborating and Transforming.
Reimagining Change begins with first developing innovative concepts that unlock new possibilities and potential for your company or organization, such as incorporating new strategies, increasing skill sets, improving operations and expanding abilities. Let’s discover them together at EDF 2024! www.reallygreatsite.com
Collaborating
Transforming
Businesses of all sizes can greatly benefit from collaborations, especially when faced with obstacles that appear impossible to overcome alone. We invite companies and their employees to explore both internal and external collaboration strategies and opportunities.
In a world where disruption is constant, organizations must have the capability to continuously adapt and evolve. During EDF 2024, we will explore strategies to enhance capabilities, expand operations and adopt innovations that are crucial for both short-term and long-term success.
Future Ready: Reimagining, Collaborating and Transforming
2024 SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES AND PACKAGES
20.08.2022
Host Level Sponsorship $50,000 Maximize sponsorship advertising and marketing benefits with early commitment. Up to 20 Tickets to each of the following EDF events: Private Reception Power Breakfast with Keynote Continental Breakfast Lunch on Day 1 Luncheon with Keynote on Day 2 EXCLUSIVE Host Sponsor Lounge Awards Gala with VIP Seating
15-Second Sponsor-Produced Video Ad Pre-Event Promotions Social Media Posts and Ads TV Ad Placements – Local News Station(s) EDF Event Webpage YouTube Ads Links in E-newsletters Linked to Logo on Sponsor Page (Optional)
Host Level Sponsorship $50,000 30-Second Sponsor-Produced Video Ad During Power Breakfast on Day 1 Exhibit Hall throughout Day 1 During the Luncheon on Day 2 During Seminars and Workshops During the Robert R. Church, Sr. Achievement Awards Gala Linked to Logo on Sponsor Page Speaking Engagement Opportunities Opening Remarks at Power Breakfast on Day 1 Host a Seminar or Workshop (Optional) Brief Remarks at Opening Reception Award Presenter at the Robert R. Church, Sr. Achievement Awards Gala LIVE interview participation prior to the conference LIVE, onsite interview(s) with local media Additional Sponsorship Benefits: Access to All Seminars and Workshops Access to Exhibit Hall throughout Day 1 Booth E-blast to Increase Traffic to Booth Logo Featured on Public Transit Bus Side Ads Logo featured in the Event App Full Page Digital Color Ad 20 x 20 Open Air Exhibit Area Branded Stage in Exhibit Hall Access to Corporate Connection Zone Participation in Ribbon Cutting Additional Tickets for Meal Functions Can Be Purchased Separately.
PLATINUM - $25,000 FOUR (4) 10X20 BOOTHS AVAILABLE Up to 15 Tickets to each of the following EDF events: Business Reception Power Breakfast with Keynote Continental Breakfast Lunch on Day 1 Luncheon with Keynote Day 2 Awards Gala with VIP Seating 30-Second Sponsor-Produced Video Ad During Luncheon with Keynote Day 2 Prior Seminars and Workshops Linked to Logo on Sponsor Page
Additional Benefits: Access to All Seminars and Workshops Access to Exhibit Hall throughout Day 1 Logo on Event Website Homepage Logo Featured in the Event App Full Page Digital Color Ad 1 – 10 x 20 Exhibit Booth Access to Corporate Connection Zone Award Presenter at the Robert R. Church, Sr. Achievement Awards Gala Additional Tickets for Meal Functions Can Be Purchased Separately.
DIAMOND - $15,000
SEVEN (7) 10X10 BOOTHS AVAILABLE Up to 10 Tickets to each of the following EDF events: Business Reception Power Breakfast with Keynote Continental Breakfast Lunch on Day 1 Luncheon with Keynote Day 2 Reserved Table for 10 Guests at Awards Gala Additional Tickets for Meal Functions Can Be Purchased Separately.
15-Second Sponsor-Produced Video Ad During Luncheon with Keynote Day 2 Prior Seminars and Workshops Linked to Logo on Sponsor Page Additional Benefits: Access to All Seminars and Workshops Access to Exhibit Hall throughout Day 1 Logo on Event Website Homepage Logo Featured in the Event App Full Page Digital Color Ad 1 – 10 x 10 Exhibit Booth in the Exhibit Hall Access to Corporate Connection Zone
GOLD - $10,500
SEVEN (7) 10X10 BOOTHS AVAILABLE Additional Benefits: Up to 5 Tickets to each of the following Access to All Seminars and Workshops EDF events: Access to Exhibit Hall throughout Day 1 Private Reception Half Page Digital Color Ad Power Breakfast with Keynote Logo Featured in the Event App Continental Breakfast 1 – 10 x 10 Exhibit Booth in the Exhibit Hall Lunch on Day 1 Access to Corporate Connection Zone Luncheon with Keynote Day 2 Reserved Table for five (5) at Awards Gala Additional Tickets for Meal Functions Can Be Purchased Separately.
SILVER - $7,500 Up to 3 Tickets to each of the following EDF events: Private Reception Power Breakfast with Keynote Continental Breakfast Lunch on Day 1 Exhibit Hall throughout Day 1 Seating for three (3) at Awards Gala
Additional Benefits: Access to All Seminars and Workshops Access to Exhibit Hall throughout Day 1 Logo Featured in the Event App Quarter Page Digital Color Ad 1 – 10 x 10 Exhibit Booth in the Exhibit Hall Access to Corporate Connection Zone
Additional Tickets for Meal Functions Can Be Purchased Separately.
BRONZE - $5,500 Up to 2 Tickets to the following EDF events Private Reception Power Breakfast with Keynote Continental Breakfast Lunch on Day 1 Luncheon with Keynote Day 2 Seating for two (2) at Awards Gala
Additional Benefits: Access to All Seminars and Workshops Access to Exhibit Hall throughout Day 1 Logo Featured in the Event App Quarter Page Digital Color Ad 1 – 10 x 10 Exhibit Booth in the Exhibit Hall Access to Corporate Connection Zone
Additional Tickets for Meal Functions Can Be Purchased Separately.
Small Business & Non-Profit Sponsorship STAR SPONSORSHIP
$2,500
Up to 2 Tickets to the following EDF Additional Benefits: events: Private Reception Access to All Seminars and Workshops Power Breakfast with Keynote Access to Exhibit Hall throughout Day 1 Continental Breakfast Logo Featured in the Event App Lunch on Day 1 Quarter Page Digital Color Ad Luncheon with Keynote Day 2 1 – 10 x 10 Exhibit Booth in the Exhibit Hall Seating for two (2) at Awards Gala Access to Corporate Connection Zone for Small Business Owners Additional Tickets for Meal Functions Can Be Purchased Separately.
Unique Sponsorship Opportunities Exhibit Hall Sponsorship- $25,000 Namesake of Exhibit Hall Customizable 20 x 20 Open Air Booth Lunch for up to 15 Guests Participation in Ribbon Cutting 30-second Sponsor-Produced Video Ad to be Viewed Prior to Exhibit Hall Workshops Print and Digital Signage with Logo Present in and around Exhibit Hall Exhibitors of the Year Award Presenter - Small Business and Corporate Listed as Exhibit Hall Sponsor in Digital Program Book & Event App Private Reception Sponsorship - $25,000 Logo included on Printed Signage Near Private Reception Opportunity to Provide Remarks to Private Reception Guests (2 Minutes Max.) Listed as Private Reception Sponsor in Digital Program Book & Event App Tickets for five (5) guests to attend the Private Reception Two (2) Full Conference Passes **Booth Not Included** Power Breakfast Sponsorship - $20,000 Reserved Table for up to 10 Guests Brief Remarks Prior to Power Breakfast Keynote The Namesake of 2024 Power Breakfast Logo Included in All Print and Digital Signage Promoting the Power Breakfast 30-Second Sponsor-Produced Video Promoting the Power Breakfast and Speaker Sponsor-Produced Video Ad Viewed Prior to Power Breakfast Keynote – Max. Length: One (1) Minute Participation in Ribbon Cutting Listed as Power Breakfast Sponsor in Digital Program Book & Event App **Booth Not Included** Lunch Sponsorship - Day 1 - $15,000 Listed as Lunch Sponsor in Digital Program Book and Event App Brief Remarks Prior to Lunch Keynote Day 1 Lunch for up to 10 Guests Namesake of Lunch Keynote **Booth Not Included**
Unique Sponsorship Opportunities Luncheon Sponsorship - Day 2 - $15,000 Listed as Lunch Sponsor in Digital Program Book and Event App Brief Remarks Prior to Lunch Keynote Day 1 Lunch for up to 10 Guests Namesake of Lunch Keynote **Booth Not Included**
Event App Sponsorship - $15,000 Logo Included in App-Related Emails List as App Sponsor in Digital Program Book and Event App Announcement of Scavenger Hunt Winner(s) **Booth Not Included**
Entertainment Sponsorship – $5,000 Listed as the Entertainment Sponsor in the Digital Program Book & Event App Verbal Acknowledgement Two (2) Tickets to Private Reception Two (2) Tickets to Awards Gala **Booth Not Included**
Continental Breakfast Sponsorship – $5,000 Logo Included on Printed Signage Near Continental Breakfast Listed as Continental Breakfast Sponsor in Digital Program Book & Event App Two (2) Full Conference Passes **Booth Not Included**
Silent Workshop Sponsorship - $2,500 (Up to Two (2) Sponsors) Brief Remarks Before four (4) Silent Workshop 30-Second Sponsor-Produced Video Ad to be Viewed Prior to Exhibit Hall Workshops Listed as Silent Workshop Sponsor in Digital Program Book & Event App Print Signage with Logo Near Silent Workshops **Booth Not Included**
ALL ACCESS PASSES The All Access Package (for two attendees), All Access Pass and Day Pass are great for your whole team, including C-Suite Executives. Whether you need a pass for one or many, there’s an option that fits your company’s needs. ALL ACCESS PACKAGE (2.5 DAYS) - $1,950 Includes Two (2) Passes to the following Private Opening Reception Power Breakfast with Keynote Speaker Lunch on Day 1 Continental Breakfast Day 2 Luncheon with Keynote Day 2 Access to Exhibit Hall throughout Day 1 Entry to All Seminars and Workshops Robert R. Church, Sr. Achievement Awards Gala **Booth not included with purchase**
Save When You Purchase a Package for 2!
ALL ACCESS PASS (2.5 DAYS) - $999 Includes One (1) Pass to the following Private Opening Reception Power Breakfast with Keynote Speaker Lunch on Day 1 Continental Breakfast Day 2 Luncheon with Keynote Day 2 Access to Exhibit Hall throughout Day 1 Entry to All Seminars and Workshops Robert R. Church, Sr. Achievement Awards Gala **Booth not included with purchase** DAY PASS (1 DAY) - $599 Access for a single pass holder to all Day 2 events, including: Continental Breakfast Ticket to Luncheon with Keynote Entry to All Seminars (total of 5) Ticket to the Robert R. Church, Sr. Achievement Awards Gala **Booth not included with purchase**
Contact MMBC Continuum to Secure Your Sponsorship Today!
FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT MMBC CONTINUUM AT EDF@MMBC-MEMPHIS.ORG OR 901-525-6512.
200 Jefferson Ave. STE 1000 | Memphis, TN 38103 | 901-525-6512 mmbc-memphis.org | facebook.com/MMBCContinuum