2025 EDF Star Exhibitor Guide

STAR SPONSOR & EXHIBITOR GUIDE

20.08.2022

Welcome to the 2025 Economic Development Forum!

Dear Valued Sponsor and Exhibitor, Welcome—and thank you for partnering with us for the 2025 Economic Development Forum! We are thrilled to have you join us for this year’s dynamic experience, themed “Future Focused.”

Your commitment to innovation, empowerment, and small business advancement plays a critical role in shaping the future we’re all working toward.

Your presence at the EDF is more than just a booth or a banner—it’s a bold investment in community, commerce, and connection. Whether you’re showcasing transformative technology, offering essential services, or engaging directly with our entrepreneurial audience, your contribution sets the tone for meaningful impact .

This Sponsor & Exhibitor Guide is your go-to resource for maximizing your engagement and success throughout the Forum. Inside, you’ll find: Important Dates & Deadlines Event Schedule & Key Highlights Booth Setup & Logistics Information Branding and Promotion Opportunities Vision Vault Details Onsite Engagement Tips Contact Directory for Event Support We encourage you to use this guide to plan, prepare, and get excited about what’s ahead. The 2025 EDF promises to be an unforgettable gathering of thought leaders, changemakers, and entrepreneurs—and thanks to your support, it will be more impactful than ever.

We can’t wait to see you there! www.reallygreatsite.com

With gratitude,

The EDF Planning Team

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SPONSOR DELIVERABLES: GRAPHICS & PARTICIPATION CONFIRMATION To prepare for your presence at EDF 2025, we require all sponsors to submit their branding assets and confirm participation in key engagement opportunities. This ensures your organization is properly represented in event materials and allows us to plan accordingly for exhibitor activations.

Deadline for Submission All deliverables must be submitted no later than Thursday, August 22, 2025.

Submissions received after this date may not be included in printed or digital materials.

What You Need to Submit 1. Company Logo High-resolution PNG (preferred for digital use) Transparent background preferred 2. Digital Ads File format: PNG or JPEG Resolution: 300 dpi minimum Dimensions and specifications will be provided (e.g., full-page, half-page, digital screen ratios) 3. Participation Confirmation Confirm if your organization will participate in: Hiring Fair (workforce initiative opportunities) Corporate Connections (procurement and supplier engagement) Why Timely Submission Matters Logos received after the deadline may not appear on pre-printed materials, signage, or digital assets prepared ahead of the forum. Early submission allows the event team to ensure your branding is represented accurately and prominently.

CLICK HERE TO COMPLETE AND SUBMIT YOUR 2025 EDF DELIVERABLES

YOUR 2025 SPONSORSHIP & GUEST REGISTRATION PROCESS Up to 2 Registrations to the following: 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 Half Page Digital Color Ad 1 – 10 x 10 Exhibit Booth in the Exhibit Hall Access to Corporate Connection Zone

Guest Registration Process Your sponsorship package includes five (5) All Access registrations. To ensure you and your guests can register without being charged, we've set up a custom coupon code that will waive the registration fee.

Please follow the steps below to register your attendees: 1. Click here to access the 2025 EDF Eventbrite page.

2.Apply the promo code provided in your welcome email.

3. Before proceeding to checkout, click "Enter promo code" (located at the top of the ticket window).

4. Enter the promo code provided in your welcome email to activate your free registration.

Reimagining Collaborating Transforming 5.Complete Attendee Details: 6. Fill out each attendee’s name, email, and any required details.

7.Confirm and Submit: 8. Review the information, then complete the registration. You and your guests will receive a confirmation email with event details.

If you have any questions or need assistance during registration, feel free to contact me at Bgaines@mmbc-memphis.org or at 901-525-6512.

www.reallygreatsite.com

EXHIBITOR MOVE-IN AND MOVE-OUT Exhibitor Move-In Details Date: September 9, 2025 Time: 8:00 am – 4:00 pm Location: Ramp entrance located on Front Street Check-In Please check in at the Help Desk, located at the ramp entrance, for booth assignments, badge pick-up, and general assistance.

Move-In Parking Designated move-in parking is available. Please limit loading and unloading to two (2) vehicles. Additional parking will be available in the exhibitor lot located next to the loading ramp entrance. A photo of the ramp and exhibitor lot entrance is below for reference.

Badge Pick-Up Reimagining Collaborating Transforming Please pick up your badges at the registration table when you arrive or during the Opening Reception.

Opening Reception The Opening Reception will take place on September 9 at 5:30 pm. All Access Pass holders will enjoy food and networking during the official kick-off of the 2025 EDF. Exhibitor Move-Out Date: September 10, 2025 www.reallygreatsite.com Time: 4:00 pm

RENASANT EXHIBITOR DOCK PROCEDURES AND RULES & REGULATIONS Loading Dock Procedures • Loading docks are for exhibition materials and displays only.

• Maximum vehicle time: 20 minutes.

• Unattended vehicles left on the dock for over 20 minutes are subject to being towed at the owner’s expense.

• Blocking dumpsters or stalls is strictly prohibited.

• Docks are not part of leased event space; they remain under RCC control.

• Refrigerated trailers or storage use requires prior approval.

• Dock guards will direct vehicle parking.

Exhibitor Rules & Regulations • No taping, tacking, Velcro, or affixing anything to walls, doors, floors, or furniture.

• Prohibited Tape: Duct tape or high-residue adhesive.

• Approved Tape: Kendall 105, TC1900, or Gaffers' Tape.

• Remove all tape and markings during load-out.

• Protect doorways, carpet, and floors when moving heavy items.

• You will be responsible for any damages to carpet or flooring.

• Hardboard required for concrete-to-carpet transitions.

• Forklifts must have non-marking tires.

• Allowed tools: pallet jacks, two-wheeled dollies, four-wheeled rubber-tired carts.

Reimagining Collaborating Transforming • RCC personnel cannot loan tools or ladders to non-RCC staff.

• Decor must be flame-retardant or non-combustible; have proof on-site.

• Tents, canopies, pop-up covers are prohibited.

• Helium balloons are not allowed.

• No fog machines, hazers, pyrotechnics, or drones without RCC approval.

• Facility is smoke-free; use designated smoking areas.

• Outside food or drink is not allowed. Sample giveaways require approval.

• Dispose of all trash in designated receptacles. www.reallygreatsite.com

YOUR EXHIBIT BOOTH Standard Exhibit Setup Each exhibiting sponsor will receive a 6-foot table covered with black linen, accompanied by two chairs, a trash can, and company name signage. This setup ensures every exhibitor has a professional, uniform presence on the show floor.

Enhancing Your Booth Experience Sponsors are encouraged to elevate their booth beyond the standard setup to create a memorable impression. Consider adding: Branded signage or backdrops to showcase your logo and key messaging.

Decor elements such as floral arrangements, lighting, or branded table coverings for added visual appeal.

Interactive activities like product demos, prize wheels, or hands-on experiences that encourage attendee engagement.

Digital displays or tablets for presentations, sign-ups, or showcasing company videos.

For additional décor or specialty furniture, we recommend Event Rentals by Hick’s in Memphis, TN, a trusted local vendor for event rental support.

Convention Add-Ons - Electrical & Wi-Fi Orders Electrical and Wi-Fi services must be ordered directly through the Renasant Reimagining Collaborating Transforming Convention Center: 1. Visit the Renasant Convention Center website Exhibit at an Event Order Services Online.

2. Select “Exhibitor Store” and choose the appropriate event.

3. Select the services and quantities needed.

4. First-time users must create an account prior to checkout.

5. Payment is due at the time of ordering (Visa, Mastercard, Discover, American Express accepted).

6. Advance rates apply only if the order is placed at least 10 calendar days prior to w w w . r e a l lmove-in y g r e a t s i t e .day. com the first exhibitor

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STEP INSIDE THE VISION VAULT Where Innovation Meets Opportunity Details Date and Time: September 10th, 10 am – 4 pm Admission: Free to the Public | Bring the Entire Team Attire: Business Casual | Branded Business Polos Encouraged Concessions: Food & Beverages Available Onsite Parking: Paid parking is available in the on-site garage. Pay at the kiosk upon arrival.

What Awaits Inside Welcome to the Vision Vault, the centerpiece exhibit hall of the 2025 Economic Development Forum—an immersive destination designed to spark ideas, foster connections, and inspire growth. Open to the public and curated for entrepreneurs, business leaders, and curious minds, this experience goes beyond the traditional trade show floor.

Reimagining

Collaborating

Transforming

The Innovation Zone Explore cutting-edge concepts, prototypes, and future-focused solutions presented by bold thinkers and builders. Whether you're scouting tech, tools, or talent, this zone is your launchpad. ➤ Apply to Showcase in the Innovation Zone www.reallygreatsite.com

MORE TO DO IN THE VISION VAULT Silent Workshops Learn without leaving the action. The Silent Workshops were designed with one goal in mind: to keep the energy of the Vision Vault alive. Instead of stepping away from the exhibit hall to attend a seminar, guests can simply slip on a pair of headphones and dive into curated, hour-long sessions—all without ever leaving the hub of innovation and connection.

Whether you're interested in funding tips, branding strategies, or operational insights, these focused sessions allow you to gain valuable knowledge while staying fully plugged into the event atmosphere. Learn. Network. Repeat.

Corporate Connections Forge partnerships that fuel growth. This is where leading corporations and procurement teams meet innovative small businesses ready to deliver products, services, and fresh solutions.

Corporations gain direct access to vetted vendors and emerging talent, while small businesses get the rare opportunity to present their capabilities, ask Collaborating Transforming questions, andReimagining explore new contract pathways. Whether you’re seeking suppliers or seeking opportunities, this is the place to start conversations that can lead to lasting business relationships and real impact.

Giveaways & Good Vibes Don’t leave empty-handed! Enjoy exclusive giveaways, product samples, and surprises throughout the day. Simply select “Yes” on the deliverables form, and one of the planning team members will contact you. www.reallygreatsite.com

BRING THE WHOLE TEAM Who Should Represent Your Booth?

Your booth team plays a critical role in maximizing your return on investment at EDF 2025. Beyond simply staffing your table, these individuals should actively engage attendees, network across the exhibit hall, and represent your brand with confidence and knowledge.

The Vision Vault is Open to All In addition to your All Access Pass holders, the Vision Vault exhibit hall is free and open to all forum attendees. This means you can bring additional team members—beyond those holding passes—to maximize coverage at your booth, engage in hallway networking, and gather fresh insights from other exhibitors and sessions. Having a strong, visible presence increases your brand’s touchpoints and creates more opportunities for relationship-building.

Tips for Maximizing Your Booth Presence Collaborating Transforming Rotate yourReimagining team so your booth remains staffed while others attend sessions.

Encourage staff to “work the room” — walking the hall, attending panels, and networking outside the booth area.

Prepare talking points and key messages in advance to ensure consistent, on-brand communication.

Ensure representatives know how to capture leads (business cards, QR scans, sign-up forms) for follow-up after the conference. www.reallygreatsite.com

RECOMMENDED ROLES TO INCLUDE IN YOUR BOOTH TEAM 1. Procurement Representatives Ideal for exploring new suppliers or strengthening relationships with current partners.

Can quickly assess vendor capabilities and identify partnership opportunities on the spot.

2. Recruitment & Workforce Development Staff Perfect for engaging job seekers and promoting your company’s workforce initiatives.

Can answer questions about company culture, benefits, and career pathways.

3. Sales & Business Development Professionals Skilled at building relationships and converting casual interactions into leads.

Can share product or service details, pricing, and next steps for collaboration.

4. Marketing & Community Engagement Teams Great for creating buzz and amplifying brand visibility both in-person and online.

Reimagining Collaborating Transforming Can manage giveaways, interactive experiences, and real-time social media coverage.

5. Product or Technical Specialists Provide in-depth knowledge and answer detailed product or service questions.

Ideal for demonstrations, troubleshooting, and building trust with prospective partners. www.reallygreatsite.com

ALL ACCESS PASSES & SINGLE TICKETS Sponsors can purchase additional All Access Passes for team members or add individual event tickets to invite clients, partners, or special guests.

This flexibility ensures you can tailor your participation to match your organization’s goals and maximize your presence throughout the forum.

All-Access Pass (2.5 Days) – $999 The best value for participants looking to engage fully in EDF 2025.

Includes one (1) pass with access to: Private Opening Reception Power Breakfast with Keynote Speaker (Wednesday, September 10) Lunch on Day 1 Continental Breakfast (Thursday, September 11) Luncheon with Keynote (Thursday, September 11) Full access to Exhibit Hall (Wednesday) Entry to all seminars, panels, and workshops Robert R. Church, Sr. Achievement Awards Gala (Thursday evening) Note: Booth not included with purchase.

Signature Event Tickets – $150 each For attendees interested in specific EDF experiences, individual event tickets are available: Private Opening Reception Power Breakfast with Keynote Luncheon with Keynote Awards Gala Tickets are limited and sold on a first-come, first-served basis.

WE LOOK FORWARD TO YOU JOIN US!

QUESTIONS ABOUT YOUR SPONSORSHIP OR EXHIBITING, CONTACT BRITTNEY GAINES AT BGAINES@MMBC-MEMPHIS.ORG OR 901-525-6512.

200 Jefferson Ave. STE 1000 | Memphis, TN 38103 | 901-525-6512 mmbc-memphis.org | facebook.com/MMBCContinuum