FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

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.