Since its inception in 2005, Forum has covered it all – inspiring keynote presentations, hot-topic discussions, hands-on tutorials, special interest panels and amazing networking opportunities. But it has also created lasting memories and extraordinary experiences for all those who’ve attended. In anticipation of the 2012 Canadian Sponsorship Forum, we’ve taken a look back and compiled a list of some of our favourite Forum highlights. How many of these can you remember?
2005: Touchdown!
The first-ever Forum kicked off at the CFL Grey Cup in Vancouver, and thus began a tradition of hosting Forum alongside some of the biggest events in the country. Highlights included a behind the scenes tour of BC Place and a ticket to the big game.
2006: Yee-haw!
Building on the success of the inaugural Forum, 2006 saw us descending upon Calgary for the biggest outdoor show on earth – the Calgary Stampede. After taking in the opening ceremonies, delegates enjoyed a trip to a private rodeo ranch in the foothills of the Rockies and a VIP steak lunch ringside.
2007: Lights…. Camera… Action!
The Forum moved east in 2007 for the Toronto International Film Festival – the largest public film festival in the world. Some of the many highlights for those in attendance included a private VIP reception, screening of a George Clooney film, and the opportunity to rub elbows with the stars in the ET Canada Studio Lounge.
2008: Go Canada Go!
Capitalizing on the 2008 theme of The Power of Events, the Forum moved even further east to Halifax for the Qualifying Rounds of the World Hockey Championships. As hockey hysteria gripped the province – and the country – delegates were in the middle of all the action as Team Canada won against Team USA in a nail-biting finish.
2009: What’s Your Story?
2009 saw Forum venturing into Quebec for the first time, partnered alongside Quebec City’s famed Winter Carnival, and using the theme of Storytelling. The match was a perfect fit – Carnival is one of the premier sponsorship events in the country and Forum had now built its own reputation as the premier sponsorship conference in Canada. Besides TrojanOne CEO Mark Harrison hanging out with Carnival mascot Bonhomme, other memorable moments included a trip for delegates to the world-renowned Ice Hotel and taking in the excitement of the Carnival Night Parade.
2010: How Inspiring!
The Paralympic Winter Games in Whistler, British Columbia was the site of the 2010 Forum, focused on the theme of Building Sponsorship Equity. Highlights included a breathtaking gondola ride to the peak of Whistler Mountain for a dinner reception and taking in the Paralympic Games Closing Ceremony. Sixteen Paralympic athletes shared stories of inspiration and courage, and John Furlong, CEO of VANOC, gave an unforgettable speech, taking the Forum experience to new levels.
2011: The Race is On!
Taking place during the three-day Formula 1 Canadian Grand Prix du Canada event in Montréal, the 2011 Forum immersed delegates in the heart-pounding F1 experience while teaching them how to rev up their ROI. Keynote presenter Adam Garone – founder of the worldwide men’s health movement Movember – delivered a memorable and moving address on how a small group of friends in Australia used the power of marketing creativity to develop a property that has changed the world, while delegates got the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to attend a trackside networking event.
2012: The Best is Yet to Come!
As Canadian Sponsorship Forum 2012 approaches, we know that even more memorable moments will be created for those in attendance. We are excited to return to Montréal alongside world-renowned Just for Laughs Comedy Festival. This year’s Forum is guaranteed to uncover the passion paradigm behind some of the most successful sponsorship programs our nation has ever seen. Our Early Bird Special runs until March 31, 2012, so be sure to register today!
