Session Descriptions
The following are descriptions for our plenary sessions.
From Awkward to Awesome: Real Talk on Networking
Speaker: Christi Cruz & Jennifer Bishop
Let’s be honest—walking into a room full of strangers isn’t everyone’s idea of fun… or is it? Join two seasoned professionals, known for their powerful networks and their uncanny ability to land a meeting with just about anyone. This candid, high-energy session will show you how to confidently work a room, build meaningful connections, and turn casual conversations into real opportunities. Whether you’re an introvert, extrovert, or somewhere in between, you’ll walk away with practical tips, fresh perspectives—and maybe even a few new contacts.
Real talk. Real strategies. Real results.
What Sponsors Want Now - Moving Beyond Basic Branding/Logo Visibility
Speaker: James O’Connor
Sponsorship is back! Brands are investing more than ever; however, they’re changing the way they approach sponsorship and getting smarter in how they spend their dollars. While the overall sponsorship spend in Canada has increased, the right fees paid out by sponsors has decreased. What’s happening? Outside of sports, non-profit/non-sport properties know the challenge all too well of retaining sponsors, increasing their investment, or let alone attracting new sponsors.
This session will explore:
· What is actually happening in the current sponsorship marketplace
· What does it mean for you and your organization
· How you can take advantage of the situation and create even deeper relationships with sponsors to ensure they stay