What are the challenges and opportunities of hybrid conference sponsorship and exhibition?

1 Benefits of hybrid sponsorship and exhibition

Hybrid conferences offer many advantages for sponsors and exhibitors when compared to traditional or virtual events, such as expanded reach and diversity of the audience, increased exposure and visibility, enhanced interaction and feedback, and more flexibility and customization. Hybrid conferences can attract both local and global participants, give sponsors and exhibitors the chance to showcase their products on multiple platforms, provide tools for communication with sponsors and exhibitors, and allow for the choice of level and type of involvement that best suits their goals.

2 Challenges of hybrid sponsorship and exhibition

Hybrid conferences present some challenges for sponsors and exhibitors that require careful planning and execution. These challenges can create a gap or imbalance between in-person and virtual attendees, as well as require more investment and coordination for sponsors and exhibitors. Additionally, hybrid conferences increase the complexity and risk of the event due to the health and safety protocols, the reliability and quality of the technology, and potential changes in attendance or format.

3 Tips for hybrid sponsorship and exhibition

To optimize the outcomes of hybrid sponsorship and exhibition, it's important to define your objectives and metrics, design your package according to your objectives and budget, and prepare content and materials for both physical and virtual platforms. Furthermore, you should engage your audience before, during, and after the event to create multiple touchpoints and interactions. For example, you can promote your sponsorship or exhibition on social media before the event, host a live chat or webinar during the event, or follow up with a thank-you note or feedback survey after the event.

4 Best practices for hybrid sponsorship and exhibition

Sponsors and exhibitors have the chance to learn from the experiences and insights of other participants in hybrid conferences. To make the most of this opportunity, you should collaborate with the conference organizers and other sponsors and exhibitors to create a cohesive experience for attendees. Adapting to changing needs and preferences is also important, as is experimenting with new ways to sponsor or exhibit at a hybrid conference. By following these tips and best practices, you can create a successful hybrid sponsorship and exhibition that delivers value for your business and your customers.

5 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?