The Online News Association’s 2018 Conference & Awards Banquet, to be held Sept. 13-15, at the JW Marriott in Austin, is the world’s largest gathering of highly engaged digital journalists who are shaping the future of journalism and technology. We anticipate hosting more than 2,700 publishers, technologists, newsroom decision-makers, educators, innovators and all types of digital media professionals as part of our annual event – visiting Texas for the first time.
There are several ways to connect with the ONA community. Our currently available package options are below. To find out more, contact Jessica Strelitz at jessica@journalists.org or at (571) 212-1363.
Download the ONA18 Sponsorship Packet
Jump to a sponsorship level: Angel | Diamond | Platinum | Gold | Silver | Exhibitor | Midway | Supporter or see the deadlines.
More questions? Visit the sponsorship FAQ.
About the ONA Conference audience:
- More than 3,000 people attended ONA17 — an ONA record
- 35 percent of ONA17 attendees were in senior management positions (director-C-suite)
- 33 percent reported being the primary decision maker in purchasing decisions OR reported high influence in decision making.
- An additional 22 percent reported medium influence in decision making
- 61 percent of ONA17 attendees were employed in the journalism space
- 14 percent were academic and 13 percent were in related technology and tools
- Top organizational sizes were 500 or more employees (28%), 25-100 employees (24%) and 101-300 employees (16%)
- 49 percent of all attendees were first-time ONA conference goers
- 12 percent of all attendees were international, representing 59 countries
96% of ONA17 attendees reported visiting our 85+ onsite sponsors, exhibitors + Midway participants
Top four factors that influenced attendees to come to ONA17:
- Access to new ideas
- To learn
- Meet new people
- Discover new technology and tools
Top types of vendors attendees want to see more of in 2018:
- Social media platforms
- Immersive storytelling tools + equipment
- Training
- Data tools
- Content distribution platforms
- J-schools and fellowship opportunities
- CMS
- Verification tools
- Camera / video equipment
Top types of programming attendees want more of in 2018:
- Audience engagement
- Metrics and impact
- Newsgathering tools for journalists (apps, web scraping tools)
- Leadership skills
- Revenue
ONA18 Opportunities
Angel Packages — $50,000
Online Journalism Awards Banquet
Put your organization front and center during the dinner and ceremony highlighting digital journalism’s preeminent awards. Sponsor has the option to present one award, with brief remarks, during the ceremony. Sponsor also receives:
- One reserved OJA Awards Banquet dinner table, with seating for 10
- One one-hour sponsored workshop/session
- Sponsorship acknowledgement during live streaming of awards
- Seven full conference passes, each including a one-year ONA membership and OJA ticket
- 10 Exhibit-only passes *
- Lounge space on the 4th floor near the keynote ballrooms
- One full-page color ad in conference guide — premium placement (i.e. inside covers, center)
- Dedicated signage on site during ONA18 as well as logo/name listed on ONA18 sponsor signage
- Five ONA Career Center 30-day listings
- Logo in conference e-mail newsletters (opt-in audience 10,500+)
- Logo in all targeted OJA banquet emails
- Logo on projection screens during the OJA Awards Banquet
- Logo and link prominently placed on ONA18 website
- Top placement, logo and 60-word description on digital Sponsors page on ONA18 website and in printed conference guide
- Up to two non-paper inserts or promotional items (provided by the sponsor) in the attendee gift bag or paper inserts for the ONA18 information tables***
Opening Night Reception — SPONSORED BY KNIGHT FOUNDATION + FACEBOOK
Welcome attendees and officially kick-off ONA18 at this premier 2-hour networking event at the iconic Moody Theater, home to Austin City Limits Live, located a few blocks from the ONA18 host hotel. Appetizers & beverages are included, as well as a dedicated lounge space at the Moody Theater. Any additional décor, custom furniture or hand-outs/give-aways is at the discretion of the sponsor. Sponsor also receives:
- One reserved OJA Awards Banquet dinner table, with seating for 10
- Two (2), one-hour sponsored workshop/sessions
- Sponsorship acknowledgement during one keynote
- Seven full conference passes, each including a one-year ONA membership and OJA ticket
- 10 Exhibit-only passes *
- Lounge space on the 4th floor near the keynote ballrooms
- One full-page color ad in conference guide — premium placement (i.e. inside covers, center)
- Dedicated signage as well as well as logo/name listed on ONA18 sponsor signage
- Five ONA Career Center 30-day listings
- Logo in conference e-mail newsletters (opt-in audience 10,500+)
- Logo in all Opening Night announcements
- Logo and link prominently placed on ONA18 website
- Top placement, logo and 60-word description on digital Sponsors page on ONA18 website and in printed conference guide
- Up to two non-paper inserts or promotional items (provided by the sponsor) in the attendee gift bag or paper inserts for the ONA18 information tables ***
Diamond Packages, pricing varies from $10,000 to $30,000
All Diamond Packages include:
- Five full conference passes, each including a one-year ONA membership and OJA ticket
- 5 Exhibit-only passes *
- One (1) one-hour sponsored workshop/sessions
- Exhibit/Lounge space, as noted
- One reserved OJA Awards Banquet dinner table, with seating for 10
- One full-page color ad in conference guide — premium placement (i.e. inside covers, center)
- Dedicated signage, as well as logo/name listed on ONA18 sponsor signage
- Five ONA Career Center 30-day listings
- Logo in conference e-mail newsletters (opt-in audience 10,500+)
- Logo and link prominently placed on ONA18 website
- Logo and 60-word description on digital Sponsors page on ONA18 website and in the printed conference guide
- One non-paper insert or promotional item (provided by the sponsor) in the attendee gift bag OR one paper insert for the ONA18 information tables ***
Student Newsroom — SPONSORED BY GOOGLE NEWS INITIATIVE
Support this key program, which brings 20 select students to ONA18 to produce content for the ONA18 website under the personal guidance of professional mentors from across the country. Includes branding as part of the official announcement, news, selection process and all digital presence, as well as on-site newsroom. This sponsorship includes a mid-room Premier Exhibit Space (20’x20’) in the exhibit hall.
Coffee + Tea Bar — SPONSORED BY FACEBOOK & REUTERS
A destination with guaranteed foot traffic. Provide coffee service for conference attendees at the most popular spots at ONA18. Sponsor receives a large, dedicated foyer lounge space adjacent to beverage service in one of two foyer spaces — The Griffin Foyer on Floor 2, outside of the exhibit hall and several programming spaces — or Lone Star Foyer South on Floor 3, outside of several large format programming spaces. Note: This space has a built-in bar/kitchen set-up, ideal for additional refreshments. Sponsor is responsible for all costs related to hotel coffee service, which is $99 per gallon plus fees, for a recommended 2 breaks per day of coffee and tea. A minimum of one coffee/tea service (estimated to be 70 gallons) per day is required as part of this sponsorship. There is no additional exhibit space included in this sponsorship.
Platinum Sponsorships — $20,000-$25,000
All Platinum Packages include:
- Three full conference passes, each including a one-year ONA membership and OJA ticket
- 5 Exhibit-only passes *
- One half-page color ad in conference guide
- Logo/name listed on on-site sponsor signage
- One Premium exhibit space (10’x10’) — unless otherwise noted
- Logo in conference e-mail newsletters (opt-in audience 10,500+)
- Logo and 60-word description on digital Sponsors page on ONA18 website and in the printed conference guide
- One non-paper insert or promotional item (provided by the sponsor) in the attendee gift bag OR one paper insert for the ONA18 information tables ***
Social Media — $25,000
Distribute your messaging across all ONA social media platforms — including Twitter, Facebook and Instagram with 90,000+ followers — during the week of the conference, Sept. 13-17. This sponsorship is the only way to reach this audience via ONA’s official accounts. ONA saw 25,000+ tweets on the #ONA18 hashtag, plus thousands more on other conference hashtags in 2017. #ONA17 trended globally in the U.S., Australia, Canada and Singapore. ONA also recorded thousands more impressions on Facebook and Instagram in and around ONA17. Details on influence of our speakers and sessions.
Conference Bags — SPONSORED BY FACEBOOK
Full-color logo appears on eco-friendly, reusable bags carried by 2,700+ attendees. Opportunity to include up to two inserts or promotional items in the bag (provided by the sponsor).
Attendee Badge Holders — SPONSORED BY MICROSOFT NEWS
Sponsor logo prominently displayed on badges and lanyard worn by 2,700+ attendees for all three days of ONA18.
Wireless — $25,000
Maximum exposure every time 2,700+ conference attendees access the ONA18 private wireless network at the JW Marriott. Includes dedicated signage throughout the ONA18 programing space.
Diversity Reception — SPONSORED BY NBC UNIVERSAL
Address this group of diverse conference-goers during this 1-hour-long appetizer and ticketed bar networking event (includes 300 drink tickets). Sponsor also receives branding on digital invitation and all official promotion of the event.
Registration Desk — SPONSORED BY AFP + SMARTNEWS
Dedicated branding, signage and hand-outs (provided by Sponsor) in one of the highest-trafficked area of conference venue for all three days, with exposure to all 2,700+ attendees.
T-shirt sponsorship — SPONSORED BY DONALD W. REYNOLDS JOURNALISM INSTITUTE
An annual favorite! Sponsor’s color logo + brief text on the back of ONA18 T-shirt, inserted in each conference bag (2,700+); ONA18 logo will be displayed on front.
Gold Sponsors — $15,000
All Gold Packages also include:
- Two full conference passes, each including a one-year ONA membership and OJA ticket
- 5 Exhibit-only passes *
- One half-page color ad in conference guide
- One Premium exhibit space (10’x10’) — unless otherwise noted
- Logo/name listed on on-site sponsor signage
- Logo in conference e-mail newsletters (opt-in audience 10,500+)
- Logo and 60-word description on digital Sponsors page on ONA18 website and in the printed conference guide
- One non-paper insert or promotional item (provided by the sponsor) in the attendee gift bag OR one paper insert for the ONA18 information tables ***
Networking Lounge — SPONSORED BY DISNEY PARKS NEWS BUREAU
A dedicated space on the 4th floor adjacent to the JW Grand Ballroom, ONA18’s main ballroom + large format programming space. Sponsor can showcase its branding, highlight tools, host meetings and conversations and network with ONA18 attendees. Sponsor would be responsible for any food and beverage, specialty furniture and/or A/V; ONA will provide list of vendors. Note: This sponsorship does not include an exhibit floor space.
Wednesday Night Sponsored Session & Networking — SPONSORED BY KNIGHT FOUNDATION
Nearly one-third of attendees register on Wednesday night! Address 200+ conference-goers during this 90-min pre-conference networking and programming event the night before ONA18 officially kicks off, on Wednesday, Sept. 12. Sponsor also receives branding on digital invitation/RSVP and all official promotion of the event, which will be listed on the official ONA18 schedule. Sponsor would be responsible for any food and beverage and specialty furniture; ONA will provide a list of vendors.
Specialty Networking Cocktails — SOLD OUT
Looking to hire an audience development expert, product pro or broadcast powerhouse, or target a specific group of professionals at ONA18? Address the exact group you are looking for during this hour-long, invitation-only appetizer and ticketed bar networking event for 200 guests on Friday, Sept. 14. Sponsor also receives branding on targeted digital invitation and all official promotion of this new ONA opportunity. Note: We do not share attendee email addresses as part of attendee. outreach.
International Reception — SPONSORED BY DATAMINR
Address this group of 200 international conference-goers during this hour-long, invitation-only appetizer and ticketed bar networking event on Friday, Sept. 14. Sponsor also receives branding on targeted digital invitation and all official promotion of this new ONA opportunity. Note: We do not share attendee email addresses as part of attendee outreach.
Private Salon Sponsorship (1 available)
Private salon with space for 100+ people (standing reception and theater style). Space is located on the 5th floor/pool deck level. Sponsor is responsible for any A/V needs, specialty furniture or F&B. ONA will provide contacts for these services as needed. A standard exhibit space is also included in this package.
Mobile App
Conference attendees will get the latest information on all ONA18 activities from this mobile web application. Sponsor logo and link will appear on the app’s welcome page, a standalone sponsor page and all ONA communications about the application. The ONA17 app registered more than 104,000 screen views during the three days of the conference, with more than 2,000 users spending 50 minutes each total on the app each day of the event.
Hotel Keycards
Put your message directly in the hands of 2,700+ ONA18 conference attendees with branded guest room keycards.
Conference Session Signage
Dedicated logo/branding on printed signs for each general conference session, Sept. 13-15, throughout ONA18 conference space.
Opening Slides
Sponsor logo projected on opening screen of ONA18 general sessions during all three days of the conference.
Live Streaming Video Sponsorship
Be branded as the official sponsor of the ONA18 livestream. Sponsor would be branded on the livestream from a variety of ONA18 sessions.
Screening Sponsorship — SUPPORTED BY GANNETT FOUNDATION
Promotion and screening of film for registered ONA18 attendees. Sponsor also receives an introduction to ONA Local leaders (50+ domestic and international groups), including student leaders for preview/discussion opportunities, branding on digital invitation and all official promotion of the screening. Sponsor handles all screening logistics.
Silver Packages — $7,500-$12,500
All Silver Packages include:
- Two full conference passes, each including a one-year ONA membership and OJA ticket
- 5 Exhibit-only passes ***
- One quarter-page color ad in conference guide
- One Standard exhibit space (10’x10’), unless otherwise noted
- Logo/name listed on on-site sponsor signage
- Logo in conference e-mail newsletters (opt-in audience 10,500+)
- Logo and 60-word description on digital Sponsors page on ONA18 website and in the printed conference guide
- One non-paper insert or promotional item (provided by the sponsor) in the attendee gift bag OR one paper insert for the ONA18 information tables ***
Sponsored Session/Workshop — SOLD OUT
Become part of the official ONA18 schedule with a one-hour session, designed to introduce new skills, tools and concepts to the ONA18 audience. These are not sales sessions! Sponsors work with ONA on topics and schedules are determined as sponsors are secured.
NEW! Lunch + Learns — SOLD OUT
Address a group of 55 targeted conference-goers during these hour-long, invitation-only lunch and private networking events. Sponsor also receives branding on digital invitation and all official promotion of the event. Plated lunch costs for 50 guests and up to 5 staffers are included in the sponsorship for a total of 55 seats. One available daily. Additional signage or give-aways are at the discretion of the Sponsor. Note: We do not share attendee email addresses as part of attendee outreach.
Diversity Breakfast — SPONSORED BY PROPUBLICA
Address a group of 50 diverse conference-goers during this hour-long, invitation-only breakfast event and private networking event. Sponsor also receives branding on digital invitation to apply for the event, and all official promotion of the event. Breakfast costs for 50 guests and up to 5 staffers are included in the sponsorship for a total of 55 seats. Sponsor is responsible for application process. Additional signage or give-aways are at the discretion of the Sponsor. Note: We do not share attendee email addresses as part of attendee outreach.
Leadership Breakfasts — SPONSORED BY STORYFUL/DOW JONES
Address a group of 50 senior-level conference-goers in targeted areas of digital media during this hour-long, invitation-only breakfast and private networking event. Breakfast costs for 50 guests and up to 5 staffers are included in the sponsorship for a total of 55 seats. Sponsor is responsible for programming and any stand-alone invitations. Sponsor also receives branding on digital invitation to apply to attend the event, and any official promotion of the event. Additional signage or give-aways are at the discretion of the Sponsor. Note: We do not share attendee email addresses as part of attendee outreach.
Morning Yoga + Networking — SPONSORED BY SOCIAL FLOW
Healthy opportunities to gather are always a top attendee request for ONA conferences! Welcome this group of up to 100 attendees as they gather for this RSVP-only, 90-minute chair yoga-and-networking session on Friday morning. Sponsorship includes smoothies, juices and kombucha. Additional signage or give-aways are at the discretion of the Sponsor.
Recharge Lounge — SPONSORED BY BING NEWS
Logo, signage and video displayed on your recharge station set up for attendees to power laptops, tablets and phones. While recharging, attendees will be exposed to your brand and messaging in your dedicated 10×20 lounge space, located in a premium spot in the exhibitor ballroom, in front of the main doors. Custom video sponsorship and branding as part of recharge station, and designation on official ONA18 map, on-site and in printed program. Note: Lounge sponsor does not receive additional booth space as part of this package.
Refuel Lounge — SPONSORED BY PARSE.LY
Provide snack service for conference attendees in a dedicated 10×20 lounge space — located in a premium spot in the exhibitor ballroom, in front of the main doors — where the Sponsor can showcase its branding, highlight tools, host meetings and network with ONA18 attendees. Sponsor is responsible for all costs related to hotel snack service (excluding infused water and coffee). Note: Sponsor does not receive additional booth space as part of this package.
Hydration Lounge — SPONSORED BY FACEBOOK
Make sure ONA18 attendees remain hydrated in what we expect to be warm Austin weather, and get a chance to relax in this dedicated 10×20 lounge space — located in a premium spot in the exhibitor ballroom, in front of the main doors. Water stations throughout the conference space will also be branded with Sponsor’s logo. Sponsor is responsible for any costs related to any branded water bottles, give-aways, and food and beverage (approved by ONA so as not to overlap/compete with Refuel Lounge), specialty furniture and/or A/V; ONA will provide list of vendors. Note: Sponsor does not receive additional booth space as part of this package.
Unconference Sessions — SPONSORED BY VIZRT
Sponsor popular impromptu sessions created and voted on by conference attendees. Sponsorship includes welcome remarks for one of the first sessions, linked logo on online Unconference voting board during ONA18, logo prominently displayed on-site during each Unconference session, and linked logo in any Unconference session digital announcements (including blog posts).
NEW! Lightning Session Sponsor — SPONSORED BY GATEHOUSE MEDIA/AUSTIN AMERICAN-STATESMAN
Sponsor popular session created and voted on by conference attendees. Sponsorship includes welcome remarks and an opportunity to participate, linked logo on online Lightning session voting board during ONA18, logo prominently displayed online as part of Lightning session and linked logo in any Lightning session digital announcements (including blog posts).
Sponsor add-on option (1 available):
NEW! Exhibit Hall Coffee + Tea: $2,500
Special designation as exclusive coffee destination on the exhibit floor. Note: Sponsor is responsible for all costs related to hotel coffee service, which is $99 per gallon plus fees. Set-up must be adjacent to space and cannot violate fire code.
Exhibitor Options
At ONA18, we have five options for Exhibit space, ranging in size and location. All exhibits will be located in the main exhibitor ballroom. Space selection is made on a first-to-confirm basis, with returning exhibitors given priority. Map is available.
Premier Space, Exhibitor Ballroom – SOLD OUT
- 20’x20’ island space, mid-room. Taped-off space includes no furniture or pipe and drape
- Two full conference passes, including a one-year ONA membership and OJA ticket
- Half page color ad in conference program guide
- Logo/name listed on on-site sponsor signage
- Logo in conference e-mail newsletters (opt-in audience 10,500+)
- Logo and 60-word description on digital Sponsors page on ONA18 website and in the printed conference guide
- One non-paper insert or promotional item (provided by the sponsor) in the attendee gift bag OR one paper insert for the ONA18 information tables ***
NEW! Standard Lounge Space, Exhibitor Ballroom — SOLD OUT
- 10’x20’ premium space, near front doors and adjacent to branded lounges, includes table, two chairs. Taped-off space has no pipe and drape.
- Two full conference passes, each including a one-year ONA membership and OJA ticket
- Half page color ad in conference program guide
- Logo/name listed on on-site sponsor signage
- Name in conference e-mail newsletters (opt-in audience 10,500+)
- Logo and 60-word description on digital Sponsors page on ONA18 website and in the printed conference guide
- One non-paper insert or promotional item (provided by the sponsor) in the attendee gift bag OR one paper insert for the ONA18 information tables ***
Premium Space, Exhibitor Ballroom — $7500 (1 available)
- Two full conference passes, each including a one-year ONA membership and OJA ticket
- 10’x10’ premium space, includes table, two chairs + pipe and drape
- 1/4-page color ad in conference guide
- Logo/name listed on on-site sponsor signage
- Name in conference e-mail newsletters (opt-in audience 10,500+)
- Logo and 60-word description on digital Sponsors page on ONA18 website and in the printed conference guide
- One insert or promotional item in the attendee gift bag (provided by the sponsor)
Standard Space, Exhibitor Ballroom — $5,000 (3 available)
- Two full conference passes, each including a one-year ONA membership and OJA ticket
- 10’x10’ space, includes table, two chairs + pipe and drape
- 1/4-page color ad in conference guide
- Logo/name listed on on-site sponsor signage
- Name in conference e-mail newsletters (opt-in audience 10,500+)
- Logo and 60-word description on digital Sponsors page on ONA18 website and in the printed conference guide
- One non-paper insert or promotional item (provided by the sponsor) in the attendee gift bag OR one paper insert for the ONA18 information tables ***
Perimeter Space, Exhibitor Ballroom — $4,000 (4 available — late move-in restriction)
- One full conference pass, with a one-year ONA membership and OJA ticket
- 10’x10’ space on the back wall of the exhibitor ballroom, includes table, two chairs + pipe and drape
- 1/4-page color ad in conference guide
- Logo/name listed on on-site sponsor signage
- Name in conference e-mail newsletters (opt-in audience 10,500+)
- Logo and 60-word description on digital Sponsors page on ONA18 website and in the printed conference guide
- One non-paper insert or promotional item (provided by the sponsor) in the attendee gift bag OR one paper insert for the ONA18 information tables ***
Note: Stand-alone exhibit spaces and lounges include four Exhibit-only passes per space. Exhibit-only passes grant attendees access to the Midway, Lounge and Exhibit areas, but not to sessions, evening events or meals. Additional Exhibit-only passes can be purchased for $100 each, with a limit of four per exhibitor/sponsor.
Passes to the Opening Night Reception, not included in exhibit-only passes, can be purchased for $50 each and must be purchased in advance of the event.
Wireless is included for all ONA18 sponsors, exhibitors and Midway participants, but hard-line Internet and power require additional fees.
Midway Options
The Midway is an interactive space in which ONA attendees can engage directly with featured tools and products at booths. The Midway is meant to feature spotlight emerging technologies, create opportunities for collaboration and be hands-on.
Participation in the Midway also includes group panel discussions that are integrated into the larger ONA18 program. The number of discussions will be dependent on the themes that emerge from Midway participants. In the first of these discussions at ONA17, we had standing-room-only crowds for many of these sessions, and have secured larger rooms for ONA18 to host this programming.
Applications for the majority of the Midway were due by May 4. There are a few remaining spots available for Premium and Standard Table spaces, and applications are being accepted on a rolling basis. The Start-Up Alley is full, but accepting applications for the waitlist. Selection will be announced by June 1. All other participation options do not require an application.
Organizations and companies applying to become part of the Midway must be able to demonstrate:
- How attendees will interact with features in their booth.
- What is new and different about those features, if previously featured in the Midway
Groups not selected to participate in the Midway as part of the application process will be encouraged to take part in the ONA18 Exhibit Hall, space permitting.
Midway Patron — SPONSORED BY WORDPRESS VIP.COM
Host the Midway experience! Welcome all ONA18 attendees from your 10’x30’ premier lounge in the Lone Star South Foyer on the 3rd floor of the JW Marriott, which opens into the Midway space and is adjacent to several large format meeting rooms. This space does not require an application. Package also includes:
Primary representation & branding on the active screen in the dedicated Midway programming room, with space for up to 140 attendees
- One-hour sponsored workshop/session as part of core ONA18 programming
- At least one opportunity to be part of official Midway programming
- Logo on all Midway digital properties
- Special designation in on-site map signage and in printed ONA18 guide
- Three full conference passes, each including a one-year ONA membership and OJA ticket
- Up to 10 Midway-only passes ** Note: no additional passes can be purchased at Midway-only rate for this sponsorship
- One full page color ad in ONA18 guide
- Logo in conference e-mail newsletters (opt-in audience 10,500+)
- Logo and 60-word description on digital Sponsors page on ONA18 website and in the printed conference guide
- One non-paper insert or promotional item (provided by the sponsor) in the attendee gift bag OR one paper insert for the ONA18 information tables ***
Midway Recharge Lounge — SPONSORED BY THE ASSOCIATED PRESS
Logo, signage and video displayed on each recharge station set up for attendees to power laptops, tablets and phones — as part of your 10’x20’ lounge space, just inside the front door to the Midway. While recharging, attendees will be exposed to your brand and messaging at each station. Custom video sponsorship and branding as part of recharge station, and designation on official ONA18 map, on-site and in conference program. This space does not require an application. Host is responsible for any furniture in the space, beyond basic table and chairs, as well as A/V. Recharge station stand/technology and basic power is included in the package. Package also includes:
- Prominent logo representation + video on station
- At least one opportunity to be part of official Midway programming
- Two full conference passes, each including a one-year ONA membership and OJA ticket
- Up to 5 Midway-only passes **
- One half-page ad in conference guide
- Logo/name listed on on-site sponsor signage
- Logo in conference e-mail newsletters (opt-in audience 10,500+)
- Logo and 60-word description on digital Sponsors page on ONA18 website and in the printed conference guide
- One non-paper insert or promotional item (provided by the sponsor) in the attendee gift bag OR one paper insert for the ONA18 information tables ***
Midway Speakeasy — SPONSORED BY ALLEY
Host this official happy hour event, to be held Friday afternoon, Sept. 14, as part of your 10’x20’ lounge space, just inside the front door of the Midway. Sponsor gets 200 drink tickets to distribute to guests. All beverages and bar service fees are included in the package price. Event will be on the ONA18 official schedule. This space does not require an application. Package also includes:
- At least one opportunity to be part of official Midway programming
- Two full conference passes, each including a one-year ONA membership and OJA ticket
- One 10×10 Premium Midway Space
- Up to 5 Midway-only passes **
- One half-page color ad in conference guide
- Logo/name listed on on-site sponsor signage
- Logo in conference e-mail newsletters (opt-in audience 10,500+)
- Logo and 60-word description on digital Sponsors page on ONA18 website and in the printed conference guide
- One non-paper insert or promotional item (provided by the sponsor) in the attendee gift bag OR one paper insert for the ONA18 information tables ***
NEW! Midway Coffee + Tea Bar — $5,000 + F&B costs
A destination with guaranteed foot traffic. Sponsor receives a 10’x20’ lounge space, directly in front of the doors to the Midway. Sponsor is responsible for all costs related to hotel coffee service, which is $99 per gallon plus fees. A minimum of one coffee/tea service (estimated to be 70 gallons) per day is required as part of this sponsorship. This space does not require an application. Package also includes:
- Two full conference passes, each including a one-year ONA membership and OJA ticket
- Up to 5 Midway-only passes **
- Logo/name listed on on-site sponsor signage
- Logo in conference e-mail newsletters (opt-in audience 10,500+)
- Logo and 60-word description on digital Sponsors page on ONA18 website and app
- One non-paper insert or promotional item (provided by the sponsor) in the attendee gift bag OR one paper insert for the ONA18 information tables ***
Premium Midway Space — $4,500 (1 available) Application required
A 10×10′ space for a creative demonstration and face-to-face engagement; perfect for interactive or studio set-ups. These spaces are located in the center room in the main Midway space. Application is required. Package includes:
-
- One full conference pass, including a one-year ONA membership and OJA ticket
- 2 Midway-only passes **
- Logo/name listed on on-site sponsor signage
- Name in conference e-mail newsletters (opt-in audience 10,500+)
- Logo and 60-word description on digital Sponsors page on ONA18 website and app
- One non-paper insert or promotional item (provided by the sponsor) in the attendee gift bag OR one paper insert for the ONA18 information tables ***
Standard Midway Table — SOLD OUT
Test out, introduce, and build examples of your product or idea and engage face to face with innovative media leaders. These spaces are designed to introduce new or emerging companies and tools to the ONA audience. Application is required. Package includes:
- Table-top space (one 6×2 table & two chairs) in Midway Ballroom, Lone Star Ballroom D on Level 3 of the JW Marriott. No stand-alone backdrops or banners exceeding 5 feet in width, no pipe-and-drape
- At least one opportunity to be part of official Midway programming
- One full conference pass, including a one-year ONA membership and OJA ticket
- 2 Midway-only passes **
- One quarter-page ad in conference guide
- Logo/name listed on on-site sponsor signage
- Name in conference e-mail newsletters (opt-in audience 10,500+)
- Logo and 60-word description on digital Sponsors page on ONA18 website and in the printed conference guide
- One non-paper insert or promotional item (provided by the sponsor) in the attendee gift bag OR one paper insert for the ONA18 information tables ***
Start-up Alley Participant — SOLD OUT
We understand that some new companies cannot afford to send more than one person to ONA and need to make the most of their time at the conference — on and off the floor. In 2018, we ask that Start-Ups commit to a single day at their Midway booth: either Thursday, Sept. 13, or Friday, Sept. 14. On the morning of Saturday, Sept. 15, ONA will host a panel that highlights all 10 Start-Up Alley participants. Start-up spaces are designed to introduce new or emerging companies and tools to the ONA audience. Companies must be two years old or newer to qualify. Application is required. Package includes:
- Table-top space (one 6×2 table & two chairs) in Midway’s Start-up Alley on either Thursday, September 13 or Friday, September 14. Note: No stand-alone backdrops or banners exceeding 5 feet in width.
- Inclusion in the Saturday Start-up Roundtable
- One Midway-only pass **
- ONA membership — to be used to attend the conference at the current member rate, if desired
- Included in official promotion of Start-up Alley
- Logo/name listed on on-site sponsor signage
- Name in conference e-mail newsletters (opt-in audience 10,500+)
- Logo and 60-word description on digital Sponsors page on ONA18 website and in the printed conference guide
Note: Wireless is included for all ONA18 sponsors, exhibitors and Midway participants, but hard-line Internet and power require additional fees.
Supporter Packages
There are many ways to reach the ONA18 audience, even if you can’t make it to Austin or don’t want to staff a booth, from advertising leading up to and during ONA18, website presence, promotion on ONA’s exclusive conference blog and inclusion in the attendee swag bag.
Career Center Banner Campaign — $2,500
Your banner ads will appear on the top of every ONA Career Center page for the 30 days leading up to and including the conference (Monday, Aug. 20 to Friday, Sept. 21). Submit up to three pieces of creative and we will create the script for a rotating ad that will refresh each time the page is reloaded. The Career Center averages 6,000+ PV per month, and that peaks around our annual conference (8,000+ PV in October 2017).
Information Package — $2,000
- One non-paper insert (to be provided by sponsor) in the attendee bag OR one paper insert (to be provided by sponsor) to be placed on official information tables outside the plenary ballrooms
- Logo (linked) and 60-word description on Sponsors page on conference website
Digital Information Package — $2,000
- ONA18 blog post ad
- Logo (linked) and 60-word description on Sponsors page on conference website
ONA18 Sponsored Blog Content — $2,000
Sponsor will be responsible for producing content with high value to the ONA audience, which includes members, attendees, potential attendees and other interested parties in the digital journalism community. These posts will be displayed on the ONA18 website and shared via ONA social media platforms. Details:
- Sponsor produces editorial content, up to 500 words, for one blog post
- Can include embedded links, video, audio and art
- ONA will review content prior to publishing
- ONA will promote posts to its networks, including Twitter, Facebook and via the ONA18 e-newsletter (global reach of 60,000+ digital journalists)
Attendee Bag Item/Non-Paper — $1,250
One non-paper insert or promotional item (provided by the sponsor) for the official ONA18 attendee gift bag. Sponsor is responsible for shipping to Freeman warehouse by Sept. 6 deadline, ONA covers receiving fees and places items in attendee bags. As part of our efforts to be paper-light, any attendee bag drop shipment sent to Freeman warehouse that contains pamphlets, flyers, postcards or related materials will not be included in ONA swag bags. Suggested total: 2,500 pieces, sent in as few boxes as possible.
Paper-based Handouts — $1,000
One paper insert or promotional item (provided by the sponsor) which will be placed on official ONA18 information tables outside the keynote/large format ballrooms on the 4th floor of the JW Marriott.
Sponsor is responsible for shipping and receiving fees or delivering these materials to the hotel and can place these materials on the designated tables starting Sept. 12; ONA will coordinate on storage and replenishment during the conference. All other items will be removed from these tables. Suggested print run: 1500.
ONA18 In-conference E-Newsletter Ads —$2,000/issue (Sept 14 + 15 available) — NEW
Single ad per issue for full share of voice. These e-newsletters only are delivered to conference attendees during the days of the conference, Thursday-Saturday. Historically conference-only issues have an 58+% OR and 28.2% CTR.
ONA18 E-Newsletter Ads — SOLD OUT
Single ad per issue for full share of voice, starting in June 2018. In 2017, these newsletters boasted a 31%+ open rate and 4.5% CTR in the months leading up to the event, increasing to 58+% OR and 28.2% CTR in the last 3 sends before the conference (attendees-only).
ONA18 Blog Ads — $800
Ads will run in content developed by ONA staff and ONA partners leading up to and during ONA18, with high value to the ONA audience. These posts will be displayed on the ONA18 website and shared via ONA social media platforms.
- Sponsor provides online sponsorship content, including links, video, audio and art
- ONA produces editorial content for blog post
- ONA will promote posts to its networks, including Twitter, Facebook and via the ONA18 e-newsletter (global reach of 60,000+ digital journalists)
- Limit one sponsor per post
ONA18 Print Conference Guide Ads — CLOSED FOR ONA18
Promote your brand, program or technology in the streamlined ONA18 conference guide + map, distributed on-site in Austin and carried by an expected 2,700+ attendees. Ads can be color OR black-and-white.
Specs: Printed onsite guide size is 8” x 10.5”. High resolution PDF format is preferred for all files. All images and fonts should be embedded and colors must be in CMYK mode. Please do not include bleeds and crop marks.
- Full-page ad: $2,500 (7.5”(w) x 10”(h))
- Half-page ad: $2,000 (7.5”(w) x 4.875”(h))
- Quarter-page ad: $1,500 (3.625”(w) x 4.875”(h)
Deadlines for ad creative is July 13.
Footnotes
* Exhibit-only passes: Exhibit-only passes grant attendees access to the Midway, Lounge and Exhibit areas, but not to sessions, evening events or meals. Additional Exhibit-only passes can be purchased for $100 each, with a limit of four per exhibitor/sponsor. Opening Night passes can be purchased for $50 each. Exhibit-only passes do not include access to the Opening Night reception
** Midway-only passes: Midway-only passes grant attendees access to the Midway, Lounge and Exhibit areas, but not to sessions, evening events or meals. Additional Midway-only passes can be purchased for $100 each, with a limit of 4. Opening Night passes can be purchased for $50 each. Midway-only passes do not include access to the Opening Night reception.
*** Promotion items: There are two options for sponsors, exhibitors and most Midway participants to share promotional items with ONA18 attendees. As part of our efforts to be paper-light, we will no longer include paper-based items for our attendee bag, including postcards, flyers, brochures or one-pagers (notebooks are OK to include!). Sponsors + exhibitors can still create the paper collateral, but it will be displayed on official ONA18 information tables outside the keynote/large format ballrooms on the 4th floor of the JW Marriott, and not included in the attendee bags. The only items included in these tables will be from official sponsors, exhibitors, Midway participants and supporters. All other materials will be removed.
Sponsors that plan to include a non-paper item for our attendee bags are responsible for shipping to Freeman warehouse by the Sept. 6 deadline. ONA will pay for receiving fees and will place items in ONA18 attendee bags. Any attendee bag drop shipment sent to Freeman warehouse that contains paper materials will not be included in ONA swag bags and will be sent back to the Freeman warehouse. Suggested total: 2,500 pieces, sent in as few boxes as possible.
Paper-based promotional items (provided by the sponsor) which will be placed on official ONA18 information tables outside the keynote/large format ballrooms on the 4th floor of the JW Marriott. Sponsor is responsible for any shipping and receiving fees or delivering these materials to the hotel, and can place these materials on the designated tables starting Sept. 12; ONA will coordinate on storage and replenishment during the conference. All other items will be removed from these tables. Suggested print run: 1,500.
ONA18 Sponsor Deadlines:
- Thursday, Feb.15 — Midway applications open
- Tuesday, Feb. 21 – Volunteer registration opens
- Wednesday, Feb. 28 – Suggestion Box opens
- Friday, March 30 – Suggestion Box and volunteer applications close
- Wednesday, April 4 – Registration opens
- Thursday, May 3 – First cut at program announced
- Friday, May 4 — Midway applications close
- Mid-May — Midway applicants notified
- Friday, June 1 — Release Midway participants + schedule
- Thursday, June 7 — Early Bird registration rate end
- Thursday, July 12 – Midway schedule announced
- Friday, July 27 – Ad/Sponsor Info Deadline/Program
- Tuesday, July 31— Sponsored Session Deadline
- Tuesday, July 31 — Group room reservation release date
- Thursday, Aug. 2 — Getting Closer rate ends
- Thursday, Aug. 16 — Freeman shipment window opens
- Thursday, Aug. 23 — Freeman discount pricing deadline
- Friday, Aug. 31 – Registration closes
- Monday, Sept. 3 — Sponsor cut-off/no more sales
- Thursday, Sept. 6— Freeman shipment window closes
- Sept. 12-Sept. 15 — ONA18