Are you gearing up to attend the DMAW’s 19th Annual Bridge to Integrated Marketing & Fundraising Conference at the Gaylord National Resort and Convention Center? Because here at EdgeMark Partners, we certainly are! This conference is an absolute must for direct marketers and nonprofit marketing professionals.

This year, the Bridge Conference theme is “Champions in Change.” If you’re headed to the conference—and we hope you are—here’s a list of things you can’t miss at the Bridge, plus some fun touristy things outside the conference.

1. Gain Insight at Keynote Speeches

Get inspired by industry leaders during the conference’s opening and closing keynote addresses.

Leadership Insights: Listen to successful leaders as they share their journeys and provide forward-thinking strategies for your business.

Visionary Talks: Imagine the future listening to keynote speeches that cover upcoming industry trends and technologies.

2. Get TECHY at BridgeTECH

BridgeTECH is a three-day deep-dive that focuses on enhancing the efficiency and growth of nonprofit organizations through the implementation of technology.

  • Discover strategies for establishing effective processes, navigating tech products, and securing the talent you need to maximize your technology investments.

  • Unpack how tools like CRM systems or bespoke software can propel your organization forward by improving data utilization, collaboration, and innovation.

  • Learn how to safeguard your data against cyber threats, ensuring the security and scalability of your technological infrastructure.

3. Faith & Fundraising Forum

If you are a faith-based fundraiser focused on connecting donors and fundraisers within the religious community, this one-day event is perfect for you.

  • This forum promises an invaluable exchange of ideas, strategies, and shared experiences to tackle the unique challenges of faith-driven missions.

  • Held in conjunction with the Bridge to Integrated Marketing and Fundraising Conference, the Forum provides a dedicated space for faith communities to unite.

Participants from all faiths and denominations are welcome to attend.

4. The Solutions Showcase

The Solutions Showcase gives you the opportunity to learn about different companies and the products and services they offer. You can visit company booths, connect with people, and check out demos. You just might discover a new, innovative service that will help your organization become more successful!

5. Workshops & Sessions

The Bridge conference offers many opportunities to learn, including more than 100 breakout sessions covering 15 topics for fundraising, marketing, and technology professionals. There are also five Master Class workshops in 2024 that include:

  • Your Case for Support: From Creation to Activation

  • Making the Ask – Get Ready to Adopt a Whole New Approach to Solicitation

  • Dream, Decide, and Deliver: Define Your Strategic Vision and Make it a Reality

  • Copywriting Clinic for Direct Response Fundraisers

  • From Insights to Action: Translating Behavioral Science into Fundraising Strategy

6. Take a Networking Break

Take time to relax during the networking breaks that happen each day at the conference—these breaks are ideal for meeting potential clients and future business partners in an informal setting.

7. Hit the Social Scene

After the day is over, conference-goers will flood the common areas of the Gaylord Resort, meeting up, grabbing drinks, and making plans for the evening. Many will head to the Gaylord’s world-class restaurants and bars—the Belvedere Lobby Bar, Old Hickory, Harbor Social, and Replay Rooftop Lounge.

Things to do Beyond the Conference…

8. Indulge in Some “Me” Time

Take advantage of health and wellness activities at the Gaylord Resort.

Yoga: Get centered for the busy day ahead with morning yoga sessions.

Refresh: Treat yourself to services at the Gaylord’s Relâche Spa.

9. Explore National Harbor

National Harbor offers so much to do—from divine culinary experiences to incredible shopping, not to mention the iconic Capital Wheel (it soars 180 feet into the air, giving you a bird’s eye view of our nation’s capital!)

10. Visit the Nation’s Capital

At the Gaylord, you’re a hop, skip, and a jump away from everything Washington, D.C. has to offer.

National Mall: Stroll through the historic National Mall, home to the Capitol, Washington Monument, and Smithsonian museums.

Neighborhoods: Explore charming historic areas like Georgetown and Old Town and revel in a mix of history, shopping, and culinary delights.

Want to meet up?

Contact our Director of Business Development, John Weeks, at (804) 370-1717 or shoot him an email to [email protected] to schedule a time to get together at the Bridge. We look forward to connecting with friends and to being part of the incredible industry-knowledge-share that takes place at the conference. We hope this post helps you make the most out of your 2024 Bridge Conference experience!

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EdgeMark Partners is the perfect choice for nonprofits seeking high-quality printing services coupled with reliable distribution capabilities. We offer tailored solutions that optimize costs, allowing your organization to invest more resources back into your mission-critical activities. Contact us today to see how we can help your organization make a positive impact in the world while promoting your mission and values. Together, we can make a difference.