#NIFDA2024

Embark on a dynamic 3-day journey with the National Independent Flag Dealers Association (NIFDA) as we convene in the charming twin cities of Bristol, TN/VA for an unforgettable experience. Nestled amidst the Appalachian Mountains, Bristol offers a blend of small-town charm and eclectic spirit, ensuring there's something to delight everyone. 

You'll be captivated by professional speakers and industry experts who will unveil invaluable insights and breakthroughs. Plus, brace yourself for an exclusive 3-part tour of Concord American Flagpole facilities, providing an insider's look into their meticulous manufacturing process from start to finish. With numerous social gatherings to foster new connections and reunite with old friends, this convention promises to be one for the books!

Explore & Discover

Come early or stay a bit longer to explore cultural landmarks like the Birthplace of Country Music Museum, Bristol Motor Speedway, and the Michael Waltrip Brewing experience. If you’re into fishing and boating, the lakes are nothing short of spectacular. There are multiple parks for picnicking and play, awe-inspiring Bristol Caverns and Appalachian Caverns, golf courses, miles and miles of trails for hiking, and much more. With a rich history steeped in cultural and musical heritage, friendly locals, and an energetic atmosphere brimming with live music and racing action, Historic Downtown Bristol beckons with irresistible charm for business owners seeking respite from the daily grind.

Concord Manufacturing Tour

The manufacturing tour will take you through three cutting-edge facilities in Abingdon and Bristol, Virginia. From observing the transformation of raw aluminum material into flagpoles at Tri-City Extrusion's expansive warehouse to witnessing Hapco's precision spinning techniques to create the final shape, thickness, and diameter, to the final customization steps at Concord American Flagpole, where each flagpole is meticulously crafted to meet order specifications, including powder coating, cutting, and welding, attendees will gain invaluable insights into the intricate process behind flagpole production.


Professional Development

Elevate your leadership skills at this year's convention with a full day dedicated to professional development. Join us as expert speakers guide you through innovative strategies to empower your team for success. Learn the art of cultivating winning teams by placing people at the forefront, harness the power of neuroscience to optimize your organization's collective intelligence, and gain valuable insights into determining the value of your business. Prepare to be inspired and equipped with the tools you need to lead your team to new heights of achievement!

Meaningful Connections

While we've grown accustomed to conducting business, networking, and making connections online in today's digital age, there's a unique energy that comes from meeting face-to-face. At #NIFDA2024, we're thrilled to offer unparalleled networking opportunities, providing the perfect platform for forging new partnerships, collaborating with industry peers, and gaining valuable insights into your competitors. From the Welcome Reception to the Industry Expo, our agenda is designed to facilitate meaningful connections, enabling you to expand your network, strengthen existing relationships, and explore exciting new possibilities.

Pre-Convention Activities

Bike Ride Price including shuttle and bike rental $39.99 plus sales tax.

Ride the world-famous 17-mile downhill on the Virginia Creeper Trail during the most beautiful time of year. This is an easy 3-hour ride, good for those who have not ridden for years, and even has two restrooms along the way.

Sunday, 10/13: Depart Hotel @ 8:30 AM / Arrive Back to Hotel about 1:15 PM

Guided Fly Fishing Each boat is $400 and holds 2 plus the guide, $200 per angler includes transportation from the hotel to the river, equipment, drinks, snacks and transportation back.

Embark on a half-day of fly [or conventional] fishing on a guided boat trip down the South Holston or Watauga Rivers. October is the best time to fish in the area and spots fill up months in advance. Don’t miss it!

Sunday, 10/13: Depart Hotel @ 7:00 AM / Arrive Back to Hotel about 1:30 PM

DIY at AR Workshop Price will depend on what project you choose - starting at $25 for candle pour and up to $200 for corn hole boards.

Just a short 5-minute walk from the hotel is your opportunity to tap into your creativity! Come create a home decor item from raw materials from wood signs to canvas pillows, bottle openers and more!

Sunday, 10/13: Depart Hotel @ 11:45 AM / Arrive Back to Hotel about 2:00 PM

Golf We are working to gather more information, but feel free to check the interest box if you'd like to learn more about this activity.

Tee it up at The Golf Club of Bristol, founded in 1894 and considered the birthplace of organized golf in Tennessee. With some of the most well-manicured fairways and greens in the area, it's one of the longest-running clubs in the country and still recognized as one of the best courses in the state.

Speakers

Rob Campbell Renowned Veteran, Bestselling Author, Small Business Owner, and Accomplished Leadership Expert

Rob will share his insights on contemporary leadership principles that prioritize people. As a retired Army Colonel, Paratrooper, and Ranger, Rob has experienced the crucible of leadership – combat. A veteran of Iraq and Afghanistan, and now a small private business owner, Rob has a keen understanding of how to inspire people in the contemporary work environment.

Shelby Schuh Enthusiastic Ideator, Marketing Executive, Leadership Consultant, and Owner at Ideation Coaching & Consulting

Shelby Schuh, MSLOD is a neuroleadership entrepreneur who will teach you how to maximize the power of brain-friendly leadership to accomplish your most important goals. You’ll walk away with a deeper understanding of yourself, of others, and some practical, scientifically-proven tools that you can employ to – yes, be a better leader – but also to be a better version of yourself.

David L Smith Former Business Owner, Currently a Business Broker and Member of the Multi-Million Dollar Club at Murphy Business Sales

David will delve into crucial topics for small business owners, covering everything from uncovering the #1 thing every business should have to identifying key factors that enhance a business's value. Through key statistics and practical tips, attendees will gain valuable insights into assessing the worth of their own business or one they're considering purchasing.

Sessions & Schedule

Saturday, October 12

6:00pmConvention Pre-Party

Exclusive VIP night - limited availability! Included in the full registration cost.

Sunday, October 13

2:00 – 4:00pmRegistration

The Bristol Hotel

4:30pmGroup Departure

Buses leave Bristol Hotel

5:00 – 9:00pmWelcome Reception

Bristol Motor Speedway 🏁

Monday, October 14

7:30amBreakfast

Vivian's Table at The Bristol Hotel

9:00amOpening Ceremony and Introductions

King Room at The Bristol Hotel

10:15– 11:15amIt's Personal, Not Personnel

Speaker: Rob Campbell, Renowned Veteran, Bestselling Author, Small Business Owner, and Accomplished Leadership Expert

11:30amLunch Buffet with a View

LUMAC Rooftop Bar at The Bristol Hotel

12:30 – 1:30pmThe Power of Brain-Friendly Leadership

Speaker: Shelby with Ideation Consulting and Coaching

1:45 – 2:45pmFMAA/NAVA/Sourcing

3:00 – 4:00pmBusiness Valuation

Speaker: David Smith from Murphy Business Sales

5:30 – 9:30pmExpo & Dinner

Foundation Event Facility

Tuesday, October 15

8:00amBreakfast & Annual NIFDA Business Meeting

King Room at The Bristol Hotel

9:00amWhat to Expect: Concord Tour

King Room at The Bristol Hotel

10:00amConcord Tour & Lunch

Hop on a bus to see how Concord American Flagpole is able to control the manufacturing process from start finish between its three facilities in Abington, Virginia: Concord American Flagpole, Hapco, and Tri-City Extrusion

3:00pmFree Time

This is a great opportunity for Manufacturers and Dealers to meet privately.

6:00 – 10:00pmAnnual Awards Banquet

Bristol Train Station 🚂

Hotel Accommodations

NIFDA Convention headquarters: 

The Bristol Hotel
115 Country Music Way, Bristol, VA 24201
www.bristolhotelva.com

Discover the charm of The Bristol Hotel, a boutique retreat steeped in history and modern luxury. This 65 room architectural gem has been meticulously renovated to offer guests a blend of industrial chic with contemporary amenities. Indulge in family-style dining at Vivian's Table, where Southern fare takes center stage, or ascend to new heights at Lumac, the hotel's exclusive rooftop bar and restaurant offering breathtaking 360-degree views of the scenic Appalachian Mountains.

Room Rate: $184/night
CLICK HERE to book your room online or call (276) 696-3535 and reference NIFDA.
Last day to book a room is September 12, 2024

Parking & Group Transportation
Parking at The Bristol Hotel is available on the street and nearby public parking lot for no cost.

Buses will be provided for all guests attending the Welcome Reception at the Bristol Motor Speedway and those attending the Concord American Flagpole Tour. 

The small town of Bristol is pedestrian-friendly.

Traveling to Bristol

BOOK YOUR FLIGHT (ASAP)
The closest airport to Bristol is Tri-Cities Regional (TRI) Airport located 15 miles away. Other nearby airports include Asheville (AVL) (83 miles), Knoxville (TYS) (115 miles), and Charlotte (CLT) (118.4 miles).

Tri-Cities (TRI) Regional Airport
2525 TN-75 Suite 301
Blountville, TN 37617

**Ground Transportation: Both Uber and Lyft offer services in and around Bristol, but the availability of drivers is VERY LIMITED; we strongly encourage you to book your ride in advance through your preferred app. Taxi stands are not available at TRI, so be sure to schedule your ride ahead of time through one of the local Taxi providers.

DRIVE OR RENT A CAR
If you are planning to explore the region or just want to come and go at your convenience, the Tri-Cities Airport offers rental car counters located next to baggage claim. Be sure to reserve your car AS SOON AS POSSIBLE. 

If you are within a reasonable distance, we encourage you to drive as it is scenic and generally more cost-efficient than flying in to TRI Airport.

PLATINUM SPONSOR

SILVER SPONSOR

2024 Registration

Please note: An active NIFDA Membership is required to attend the Annual Convention & Expo. 
If you are not yet a NIFDA member but would like to attend the 2023 NIFDA Convention & Expo, please click here to submit an application.

  • A full registration includes access to ALL events, group meals, and bus transportation during the 2024 NIFDA Convention & Expo. (Saturday: Pre-Convention Party // Sunday: Welcome Reception // Monday: Breakfast and Lunch, Presentations, Dinner at the Expo // Tuesday: Breakfast and Lunch, NIFDA Annual Meeting, Concord American Flagpole Tour, Annual Awards Banquet)

  • Includes access to ALL the social events including the Pre-Convention Party, Welcome Reception, Expo + Dinner, and Annual Awards Banquet.

  • Includes access to the Welcome Reception on Sunday night.

  • Includes access to the Expo + Dinner on Monday night.

  • Includes access to NIFDA's Annual Awards Banquet on Tuesday night.

  • Select this option if you would like a table to exhibit at the Expo on Monday night, but you do not plan to attend any of the events or meals. This exhibitor package also includes a one-year Associate Membership to NIFDA.

Sponsorships & Exhibit Opportunities

Maximize your company’s outreach as a sponsor of #NIFDA2024. Times have changed, sales teams are strained, and customer visits have vanished. This is your chance to call on more than 50 customers in one streamlined visit. 

Whether you earn maximum visibility at the platinum level as a special events sponsor, choose to be recognized with gold, silver, or bronze sponsorships, or keep it simple as an exhibitor, the Convention offers the opportunity to share your technologies, products, and services with prospective clients and strengthen relationships with current customers. 

✨ Steal the Show with a Special Package! ✨


Bag Sponsor ($750 Add-On) – Put your logo front and center on every attendee's bag, ensuring prime exposure throughout the event. This is an “Add-On” which can only be added on to a Gold or Platinum package.

Welcome Reception ($7500) – Rev up your brand's presence as the Platinum Sponsor of the Welcome Reception at the legendary Bristol Motor Speedway! This premier sponsorship promises unrivaled visibility and prestige, featuring your signature drink accompanied by branded cups and cocktail napkins (cost included), along with prominent banner and product placement on the buses. Seize the exclusive opportunity to personally welcome NIFDA members from the stage, leaving a lasting impression at one of the convention's highlight events.

Awards Banquet ($5000) – Position your brand in the spotlight as the Platinum Sponsor of the Awards Banquet, held in the timeless elegance of the Bristol Train Station's Kegley Hall. Make an impression with branded stick flags adorning the centerpieces, and seize the spotlight by announcing the Betsy Ross Award Winner and optionally, providing a memorable raffle prize.

To download the PDF Sponsor Sheet, please click here.

Add Sponsor Package or Exhibit Table

($7,500.00/ea.) [Sold Out]
($5,000.00/ea.)
($3,500.00/ea.)
($750.00/ea.) [Sold Out]

*Bag sponsorship is ONLY available as an Add-On to either a Gold or Platinum Sponsorship. This Add-On is NOT available for Bronze and Silver sponsors, or exhibitors. First come, first served.

($2,500.00/ea.)
($1,500.00/ea.)
($500.00/ea.)

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