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Exhibitor FAQs

What are the exhibit times?
You should be set up by about 11 a.m. on Monday, July 12th. The last session on Tuesday, July 13th ends at 3:30, at which time you may have a few last minute participants wander through the exhibit area. Most exhibitors pack up by about 5 p.m. There are no exhibits on Wednesday, July 14th.

What is the cost for exhibitors?
Exhibitors pay the same registration fee as participants: $345 (Early Bird by May 1) or $395 per person. The only additional cost is a one-time $35 Tic-Tac-Toe fee to cover supplies and printing for that interactive game and an optional prize for the Tic-Tac-Toe game. Exhibitors are welcome and encouraged to attend any conference sessions that interest them.

Am I entitled to the same hotel rate as the conference participants?
Absolutely. To make your reservations call 1-800-THE-OMNI (1-800-843-6664) and mention that you will be attending the NATIONAL SMALL COLLEGE ENROLLMENT CONFERENCE to receive the special conference rate of $139 per night for single or double or go online. This special rate has been guaranteed for Saturday through Tuesday nights as well as three nights prior to and following the conference. Space is limited, so make your reservations today. After June 18th, all blocked rooms will be released and reservations and rates will be on a space available basis.

When am I likely to see conference participants?
It is an intentional arrangement of rooms and schedule that complimentary refreshments are served in the exhibit area, therefore you'll get heavy traffic during the breaks. (See the shaded areas of the "Conference Schedule" page on this website.) By design, the breakout rooms are close to the exhibit area so that conference participants will be able to easily find and explore the exhibit hall. Before the Opening Session begins at 1 p.m., you'll probably see some participants coming through the exhibit area; then your first big crowd will be after the Opening Sessions ends at 2:00 p.m.

Who will be participating in the conference?
In the past there have been between 150 and 200 conference participants and presenters from small colleges across the country, though 2009 attendance was somewhat reduced due to the difficult economy. Participants will attend from the fields of admissions, enrollment management, retention, marketing, and student services. There will be a range from new professionals to seasoned veterans. Last year, 65% were at the Director level or above.

What will be available to me in the exhibit area?
Each exhibitor will have a 6-foot skirted table Some vendors simply use that flat space, others set up their table-top displays. One or two of the vendors have full-size displays that set up on the floor behind the table. Power is just what is already available in the room, so those needing power are always advised to bring extension cords. If you need additional power or a/v set-up, you may arrange for that through the hotel at an additional charge.

What are the benefits for exhibitors?
In addition to seeing participants during refreshment breaks, your company name, description and logo will be included in the conference notebook. Your company is automatically included in the Tic-Tac-Toe game with the company name on the game card. In addition, 2 to 3 weeks before the conference date you'll receive a list of participants registered up to that point. When you check in at the conference, you'll receive a complete list of participants in hard-copy form and on CD plus (if requested) a set of pre-printed mailing labels for easy conference follow-up.

What other opportunities are available to me?
You can gain additional name recognition when you become a Major Conference Sponsor; sponsor a social event; host a refreshment break; give a Product Demonstration (limited slots available); provide a prize for the Tic-Tac-Toe raffle. For a complete list of Exhibitor opportunities, click on the "Sponsorship Opportunities Page."

What's up with these two social events?  Will I be able to participate?
The first social event--the Wine & Cheese Reception--is actually planned with exhibitors in mind. Like the refreshment breaks, it is complimentary to participants and is held in the exhibit area and presents a great opportunity to interact with participants, clients and potential clients in a totally relaxed atmosphere. The day's sessions have ended, so attendees are eager to begin the evening with a beverage and conversation with colleagues and exhibitors. The second social event--Evening at Disney--is off-site. This event is $50 to $60 per person and these specially-priced tickets are also available to family members. These two events are available for exhibitor sponsorship as well as exhibitor participation.

Can I ship supplies and equipment to the conference?
Before the conference begins, you'll get all the hotel shipping instructions and pricing. The hotel charges for accepting packages with prices ranging from $10 to $50.

Great info, but I have still more questions.  Who should I ask?
Emal or call our Conference Coordinator, Karen Clark, at karensclark@comcast.net or 678-560-4175.