Why Vendors Need Digital Advertising Now

Vendors are a part of the DNA of events.  Can you imagine a conference without a videographer?...

Vendors are a part of the DNA of events. 

Can you imagine a conference without a videographer?

A brunch without a caterer? 

A company retreat without tables and chairs?

Just because we can’t gather in large groups right now doesn’t mean that vendors should be forgotten when organizing groups online.

There are many advantages to advertising during virtual events. Here are some of them:

  1. Continue to monetize in times of economic despair.

    Let’s face it – we are living in an uncertain and challenging financial climate. Thus, staying active in your industry is imperative, not only for your current monetary situation but also for your future.

    When you advertise during virtual events you are able to bring in the same income (or near the same) that you were getting before. Technology has enabled many workers to stay relevant during this quarantine and vendors should be included in that category. Take advantage of the internet and get your money!

  2. Reach a potentially larger audience

    Have you been watching any of the “versus” music challenges on Instagram? It’s when two popular artists pit their songs against each other – in a light-hearted, fun manner – to judge whose music is better.

    Whether you’ve caught one or not, the “attendees” reach in the hundreds of thousands, far more than any concert hall could hold in person. Imagine if your brand was plugged during one of these events? Can you say “ka-ching”?

    While it is more likely to get marketing exposure during a virtual business event, digital gatherings simply reach a wider audience, especially during these times, and your brand could benefit from the larger “crowd”. Don’t underestimate the power of what virtual events can do for your company.

  3. Perfect a new strategy to implement when things go back to normal

    At some point, things will get back to the way they were before Covid-19. Face masks will come off and “non-essential” businesses will re-open. But this doesn’t mean that virtual events will go away. In fact, they may even become more popular due to the fear of Corona returning and the comfortability we have acclimated to. When this quarantine ends, part of our new normal will include digital events.

    Why not get a jump on the market and figure out now how to master the digital space?  With the way things are going now, this is a tool for your toolbox that will continue to pay off long into the future.

    An entrepreneur once said that if you want to be rich then find out which direction the world is going and get there first. You already know digital events are the new wave. Learn to ride it now so that you are ahead of the pack when others figure it out, too.

We sincerely hope you are able to take advantage of this tremendous opportunity. Which digital events will you pitch your services to this month?

Vendor Care Package

There is a great quote I like about the nature of charity.  It says, “Helping one person...

There is a great quote I like about the nature of charity. 

It says, “Helping one person might not change the world, but it might change the world for one person.”

In these trying times, as much as we would like to ease the struggle of so many who are hurting, there are just too many people who are in need of assistance right now. Luckily, there are some great resources out there that could mean the world to a few vendors. 

Take a look at the list below and try to get assistance where you can. 

Good luck and please share this information with others who you think might benefit from it!

FINANCIAL SUPPORT (LOANS & GRANTS)

The Meetings Industry Fund

When life takes an unexpected turn, The Meetings Industry Fund is there with an immediate lifeline. We provide confidential financial assistance to those individuals in crisis who are directly involved in the planning, execution, delivery and support of meetings.

Small Business Administration Paycheck Protection Program Loan

SBA PPP loans provide financial assistance to small businesses that have been affected by COVID-19 to help them keep employees on their payrolls. OnDeck is an approved SBA lender for PPP loans and is participating along with other banks and financial institutions.

SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loans

This loan advance will provide up to $10,000 of economic relief to businesses that are currently experiencing temporary difficulties.

SBA Express Bridge Loan

Enables small businesses who currently have a business relationship with an SBA Express Lender to access up to $25,000 quickly.


Facebook Small Business Grants

Facebook is up to 30,000 small businesses with 2 – 50 employees loans worth up to $100 million dollars.

COVID – 19 Ancillary Costs

The HealthWell Foundation just announced a COVID-19 Fund that provides up to $250 in assistance with ancillary costs associated with COVID-19. Grants awarded through the fund will provide reimbursement assistance to at risk or quarantined individuals for delivered food, medication, telehealth copays and transportation costs associated with COVID-19.

SBA Debt Relief

The SBA is providing a financial reprieve to small businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Hello Alice’s Covid-19 Business Resource Center

Hello Alice is offering $10,000 grants being distributed immediately to small business owners impacted by coronavirus

Live Nation Covid-19 Global Relief Fund For Live Music Crews

Live Nation, the world’s live entertainment company, in collaboration with the House of Blues Music Forward Foundation, a non-profit organization,has pledged an initial $5 million dollars and will match an additional $5 million pledged by artists, fans, and employees to support live music crews who have lost work during the Coronavirus.

BUSINESS WORKSHOPS

SCORE Mentoring for Small Businesses

SCORE has served as America’s premier source of free business mentoring and education.
As a resource partner of the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), SCORE provides support to entrepreneurs through mentoring, workshops and educational resources. Mentors are available to participate in remote mentoring sessions via phone, email, and video.

National Small Business Town Hall Series

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce will team up for a sixth virtual National Small Business Town Hall to help small business owners alike navigate the programs that are available to them.

The Women’s Business Enterprise National Council – Local Chapter Support For Small Businesses

The Women’s Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC) is the largest certifier of women-owned businesses in the U.S. and a leading advocate for women business owners and entrepreneurs. They have local chapters around the nation providing support for women entrepreneurs. 

Start Small Think Big

A great non-profit dedicated to helping entrepreneurs is on the pulse of posting information about workshops and resources needed during Covid-19.

*You can also check with your local small business development organization for more workshops.* 

MENTAL HEALTH

How To Best Manage Coronavirus Anxiety

The Anxiety and Depression Association of America has made the effort to compile a comprehensive guide to managing anxiety and/or depression during these times.

How To Best Control Your Time During Covid-19

The American Psychiatric Association offers helpful tips on how to control and manage your time during Covid-19.

World Health Organization (WHO) Mental Health Considerations

The ever-important World Health Organization has provided a 6-page document outlining factors and elements to look for while experiencing this pandemic.

Self-Screening for Mental Health

A national non-profit, Mental Health America, has created a self-screening test for individuals to take to determine where they stand on the mental health spectrum. 

PHYSICAL HEALTH AND FITNESS

Classpass

Stream thousands of live or on-demand workouts from top studios around the world. Try everything from yoga to strength training to HIIT and more.

Gymcube

GymCube membership unlocks the resources you need to lose fat, tone up, increase fitness, gain strength and lead a healthier, happier lifestyle. Burn calories at home with online exercise classes like HIIT, Abs, Combat, Dance (similar to Zumba), Indoor Spin Cycling, Yoga and Pilates.

Alo Moves

Get access to unlimited yoga, fitness, and meditation classes for only $20 a month, featuring the likes of Dylan Werner, Sri Dharma Mittra, and Melini Jesudason. 

I hope you find something useful on this list. Remember, we are all in this together. Please share any additional resources you think our community can benefit from. 

Take care.