Opinion: Enhancing the SBJ experience with exciting events, innovations

As part of our continuous efforts to elevate the user experience across all our product lines at the Springfield Business Journal, we’re thrilled to share some exciting updates and changes that will be showcased in two upcoming events with Nonprofit Excellence Awards on Aug. 29 and SBJ Connect on Sept. 19.

Celebrating Nonprofit Excellence
SBJ’s good friend Dan Prater started the Nonprofit Excellence Awards during his time at Drury University, and it later moved to Forvis Mazars when Dan joined them in 2019. With SBJ’s rich history of supporting the nonprofit community, we were excited to rekindle this event in 2024.

On Aug. 29, we will host the Nonprofit Excellence Awards, a prestigious event dedicated to recognizing the outstanding individuals and organizations within the nonprofit sector in our region. This year, we’re enhancing the experience with a fun lineup. Starting at 5:30 p.m. at our opening happy hour we’ll offer a complimentary wine and chocolate tasting featuring Askinosie Chocolate. Reconnect with a colleague, enjoy a new local experience and listen to an amazing violin duo before the main event.

This celebration not only highlights the excellence of our nonprofits but also underscores SBJ’s commitment to bringing meaningful events to our community though our awards ceremony. Adding to the significance of the evening, Shawn Askinosie, the renowned chocolatier behind Askinosie Chocolate, will deliver a keynote address, offering inspiration to all in attendance. Our program will recognize nine local nonprofits and three local leaders. One organization will also receive the Revel with a Cause award that includes a $5,000 marketing package. The evening will be emceed by Katie Towns to lead the celebration.

 SBJ Connect: A Day of Insights, Networking
Our biggest event this year takes place on Sept. 19. The SBJ Connect event aims to bring together area business leaders and decision-makers for an in-person opportunity to discover the best in local businesses, connect with other influential leaders and engage with innovative and transformative ideas. This event is designed for a highly engaged audience of decision-makers and influential professionals who are eager to immerse themselves in a dynamic agenda.

We’ve got some exceptional experiences planned for you at SBJ Connect. Attendees will receive swag bags from Maxon Fine Jewelry and enjoy gourmet coffee throughout the day thanks to Brightspeed. Exhibitors will offer engaging experiences, from back massages to demonstrations to fun games, ensuring there’s something for everyone. A Pitbull Powersports vehicle will provide a cool and convenient escort from the parking lot to the front entry – and yes, parking is free.

The event kicks off at 8 a.m. with 60 Ideas in 60 Minutes, where six of our best speakers from this annual event will share impactful insights. At 10 a.m., data and analytics enthusiasts can attend the keynote session with Mike Girsch, general manager of the St. Louis Cardinals, who will discuss using data to manage a major league team, akin to the “Moneyball” approach. Seating is available on seatback stands or a comfy Maschino’s sectional stage-side.

At 1 p.m., choose between the Springfield Chamber’s BizBlitz, a speed networking event included with your SBJ Connect ticket (spaces limited), or return to the main stage for a CEO Roundtable with local regionalism experts. At 2:30 p.m., reconnect with past interview guests at the 12 People You Need to Know session to catch up with some of our most impactful interviews. The day concludes with a grand aerial performance at 4 p.m., followed by a happy hour and networking with drink tickets included. You can get all the details at SBJ.net/connect.

One of the highlights is the easy digital pass, allowing you to come and go based on your schedule. Whether you need to step out for a work meeting or simply take a break, you can return to enjoy more of the day’s events. The Wilson Logistics Arena, with its impressive sound system and ample seating, provides the perfect setting for this lively, action-packed day. For exhibitors, attendees and sponsors, expect 100% of the action to be on the floor, creating a vibrant atmosphere of connection and innovation.

SBJ Connect is not just an event – it’s a flexible day dedicated to connecting you with innovative ideas, community leaders, new ideas and new business relationships. We look forward to seeing you there and continuing to build a vibrant business community together.

Springfield Business Journal events are a key part of how we connect our business community. Thank you for supporting our events, and please keep an eye out to see how we continue to elevate our event experiences!

Marty Goodnight is the publisher of Springfield Business Journal. He can be reached at mgoodnight@sbj.net.