FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
GENERAL
GENERAL
Who is the Organizer?
The Think Bold Festival & Conference is organized by Gangplank Management Group (GMG) and Generation Media Group (GMG).
• GMG is an industry-leading media and event production company that specializes in workforce development, entrepreneurship, and innovation.
• The festival is designed to connect emerging talent with established leaders in business, entertainment, and technology.
What is THINK BOLD FESTIVAL & CONFERENCE?
The Think Bold Festival & Conference is a premier workforce, entrepreneurship, and innovation event that brings together business leaders, creatives, students, investors, and entrepreneurs for two days of high-energy discussions, mentorship, networking, and industry insight.
• The theme for 2025 is: “We Stand On Being Bold”
• Features world-class keynote speakers, panels, interactive experiences, live performances, business showcases, and networking lounges.
• Dedicated workforce and mentorship initiatives reaching 1,000+ students annually.
• Special programming such as The Pull Up, Think Bold All Access, and entrepreneurship workshops for business owners.
Where is THINK BOLD FESTIVAL & CONFERENCE held?
Hyatt Regency Jacksonville Riverfront
225 E. Coastline Dr.
Jacksonville, FL 32202
When is THINK BOLD FESTIVAL & CONFERENCE?
• Friday, April 11th & Saturday, April 12th, 2025
What should I expect at THINK BOLD FESTIVAL & CONFERENCE?
Attendees can expect:
• Dynamic speaker sessions & panels featuring top executives, influencers, and industry pioneers.
• Entrepreneurship & Innovation Expo with startup showcases and investment opportunities.
• Networking Lounges for meaningful business connections.
• Think Bold After Dark: Exclusive entertainment experiences, concerts, and networking parties.
• Exhibitor Lounge with leading companies, brands, and entrepreneurs.
• Industry-Specific Tracks: Covering music, sports, tech, business, and entertainment.
• The Pull Up Workforce Activation Program to introduce career paths in music, sports, entertainment, and entrepreneurship.
What conferences are similar to THINK BOLD FESTIVAL & CONFERENCE?
• CultureCon (Entrepreneurship & Media)
• Forbes Summit (Young Entrepreneurship)
• SXSW (South by Southwest) (Music, Film, Tech, & Business)
• CES (Consumer Electronics Show) (Technology & Innovation)
• AfroTech Conference (Tech & Innovation)
• Invest Fest ( Entrepreneurship, Investing)
KEYNOTE SPEAKERS & GUESTS
Who are the Keynote Speakers & Guests?
• Influencers, entrepreneurs, executives, artists, investors, educators, and policymakers across business, entertainment, sports, and technology.
• Confirmed 2025 Speakers include:
• Mark Lamping (President, Jacksonville Jaguars)
• Lil Duval (Comedian & Entrepreneur)
• Nat Ford Sr. (CEO, Jacksonville Transportation Authority)
• Pinky Cole Hayes (Founder, Slutty Vegan & Business Mogul)
• Brett R. Berish (CEO, Sovereign Brands, Luc Belaire)
Will Keynote Speakers & Guests interact with attendees?
While Think Bold Festival & Conference provides access to industry leaders, direct interaction with high-profile guests is at their discretion. Some may engage in Q&A sessions, fireside chats, or exclusive networking events.
MEDIA & PRESS
Will I be on camera?
Yes, Think Bold Festival & Conference attracts local and national media coverage. Attendees consent to being filmed, photographed, and recorded for promotional use.
ACCESSIBILITY & VIP EXPERIENCE
Do you offer Accessibility (ADA) Services?
Yes, Think Bold Festival & Conference is ADA-compliant. Guests requiring assistance may have a companion, but a ticket purchase is required for both.
What does the VIP badge include?
• Preferred Seating at all speaker sessions.
• Access to all conference stages.
• Exhibitor Lounge access.
• Exclusive Think Bold After Dark Events.
• Networking Lounge access.
• VIP Swag Bag.
• Entry to VyStar Happy Hour Kick-Off Party.
What does the General Admission badge include?
• Access to all conference stages.
• Exhibitor Lounge access.
• Networking Lounge access.
• Think Bold After Dark Events.
HEALTH & SAFETY
All attendees must comply with venue policies and local regulations. Event organizers reserve the right to enforce health and safety measures as needed.
TICKETING & REFUND POLICY
Who Needs a Ticket?
• All attendees must purchase a wristband to access the festival.
• Minors under 18 years old should attend with a parent or guardian.
What is the Refund Policy?
• All sales are final. No refunds or exchanges.
• Lost wristbands must be repurchased at full ticket price.
• Event will take place rain or shine.
• Vendor & exhibitor sales are non-refundable.
SECURITY & SAFETY
What if I am harassed?
Think Bold Festival & Conference enforces a ZERO TOLERANCE POLICY for harassment. Violators will be removed from the event without refund.
What security measures are in place?
• Bag checks may occur.
• Walkthrough metal detectors may be used.
• CCTV surveillance is in place.
• Uniformed & undercover security officers will be present.
• Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office (JSO) officers may be onsite.
How can attendees contribute to security?
• Keep personal property secure.
• Report any suspicious activity to staff or security.
• Properly dispose of wristbands inside the venue.
• Carry a valid photo ID at all times.