Future Fest Connect & Kid's Gaming Nights Initiative

Deadline: Aug 05, 2026 11:59 pm (GMT-04:00) Eastern Time (US & Canada)

Date: Aug 08, 2026 9:00 am - Aug 09, 2026 6:00 pm (EDT)

305 S Dillard St, Durham, North Carolina 27701-3743, United States

About the event

Future Fest Connect is a dynamic, future-focused event that brings together innovators, creators, and communities at the intersection of technology, gaming, digital culture, and creativity. Designed to be both high-energy and welcoming, Future Fest Connect features a curated mix of interactive experiences, live programming, industry speakers, exhibitors, artists, and hands-on activities that celebrate where entertainment, tech, and community collide. Attendees include gamers, developers, tech enthusiasts, students, families, and pop culture fans who are excited about emerging trends, creative expression, and the future of interactive entertainment. Vendors and exhibitors can expect an engaged, curious audience that loves discovering new brands, products, art, and experiences. Future Fest Connect is built around connection — connecting fans with creators, brands with communities, and ideas with opportunity. Whether you're showcasing innovative tech, original art, collectibles, apparel, games, or fan-focused products, this is a space where forward-thinking brands can stand out and make meaningful connections. We’re proud to create an inclusive, community-driven environment that is welcoming to all and designed to inspire the next wave of creators and innovators.

Future Fest Connect

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Future Fest Connect

Contact Organizer

About the application

Sponsor Future Fest Connect & Kid's Gaming Nights Invest $5,000 in Durham's Future Through a Gaming & Technology initiative Learn the Future. See the Future. Be the Future. Future Fest Connect is Durham's homegrown gaming and technology convention that inspires the next generation of creators, innovators, and technology leaders. Through hands-on experiences, industry experts, and career exploration, we introduce students, families, and aspiring professionals to opportunities in game development, technology, cybersecurity, digital media, and entrepreneurship. But our impact doesn't stop at one weekend. Your sponsorship also supports Kid's Gaming Nights at the Hayti Heritage Center, a free community program that provides young people with a safe, welcoming space to connect through gaming while developing teamwork, communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills. These monthly events help families discover that gaming can be a pathway to education, careers, and community—not just entertainment. What Your Sponsorship Supports Future Fest Connect: Epic Games Learning Lab Durham's First Indie Game Awards Independent Game Developer Showcase Industry Speakers & Panels Resume & Portfolio Reviews Networking & Career Exploration Emerging Technology Exhibits Flying Car Showcase Kid's Gaming Nights: Free gaming events for local youth Safe, supervised community programming STEM and technology exploration Positive social connections and mentorship Access to gaming equipment and technology Family engagement opportunities Why Partner With Us? By sponsoring Future Fest Connect, your organization will: Invest in Durham's future workforce by introducing young people to careers in gaming, technology, and innovation. Support STEM education and digital literacy through engaging, hands-on experiences. Increase your community impact by helping provide free and affordable opportunities for local families. Connect your brand with students, educators, parents, creators, and technology professionals from across the Triangle. Demonstrate your commitment to education, innovation, and Durham's growing creative economy. Whether you're looking to recruit future talent, strengthen your community presence, or support educational opportunities, your partnership helps create lasting impact. Let's Build the Future Together Together, we can inspire curiosity, open doors to new careers, and empower the next generation of innovators.

Terms & Conditions

Sponsorship Terms & Conditions These Terms & Conditions apply to all sponsorship agreements for Future Fest Connect (FFC). By submitting a sponsorship commitment and/or payment, the Sponsor agrees to the following terms. 1. Sponsorship Agreement A sponsorship is considered confirmed once: -A signed sponsorship agreement has been received. -Full payment or an approved payment schedule has been completed. -The Organizer has provided written confirmation of sponsorship. Sponsor benefits are not guaranteed until these requirements have been met. 2. Sponsorship Benefits Sponsors will receive benefits according to their selected sponsorship level as outlined in the Sponsorship Package. Benefits may include: -Logo placement -Website recognition -Social media promotion -Exhibit space -Speaking opportunities -Event signage -Marketing materials -Digital recognition 3. Branding & Promotional Materials Sponsors are responsible for providing: -High-resolution logo files -Company description -Promotional materials -Advertisement artwork -Social media information This sponsorship covers a full year as the Kid's Gaming Nights happen 2-4 times every month. Sponsors must update any assets if they change throughout the year. 4. Speaking & Program Participation Any speaking, panel, or moderation opportunities are subject to program approval and scheduling. Content must be professional, non-promotional in tone, and aligned with the event’s mission and audience. Future Fest Connect reserves the right to approve or reject proposed speakers or session content. 5. Lead Access & Data Use Access to attendee or VIP data will be provided only as outlined in the specific negotiated sponsorship package. -All data must be used solely for legitimate business follow-up related to the event. -Sponsors agree to comply with all applicable data protection, privacy, and anti-spam laws. -Data may not be sold, shared, or distributed to third parties. 6. Event Changes or Cancellation Future Fest Connect reserves the right to modify event dates, format (in-person, virtual, or hybrid), venue, or agenda if necessary. In the event of cancellation due to force majeure or circumstances beyond reasonable control, Future Fest Connect will make reasonable efforts to deliver comparable value but does not guarantee refunds. 7. On-Site Conduct Sponsors and their representatives must conduct themselves professionally at all times. Any behavior deemed disruptive, unsafe, or inappropriate may result in removal from the event without refund. 8. Liability & Insurance Sponsors assume all responsibility for their materials, displays, and activities. Future Fest Connect is not liable for loss, theft, or damage to sponsor property. Sponsors are encouraged to carry appropriate insurance coverage. 9. Intellectual Property Sponsors grant Future Fest Connect a non-exclusive license to use sponsor logos and trademarks solely for event-related marketing and promotion. All event content, branding, and materials remain the property of Future Fest Connect. 10. Governing Law These Terms & Conditions shall be governed by and construed in accordance with applicable local and federal laws.

Prices

Sponsor	$5,000.00	Non-refundable	Branding & Visibility Your company logo will be prominently featured across Future Fest Connect and the Kid's Gaming Nights event touchpoints, including the event website, printed program, on-site signage, etc to maximizing brand exposure throughout the year. Registrations & Access Includes two complimentary full-access passes, granting entry to all sessions and the interactive expo. Speaking Opportunity One company representative will have the opportunity to participate as a panelist in a scheduled session, sharing industry insights and expertise with an engaged audience. Content & Promotion Your brand will be recognized through select digital promotions, including newsletters and social media content distributed to attendees and event partners. On-Site Presence Sponsor-provided banner or signage displayed in designated areas on-site, ensuring consistent and visible brand recognition throughout the event. Swag & Collateral Option to include branded merchandise or promotional materials in attendee swag bags distributed during event check-in. Digital & Virtual Visibility Company logo featured on the event’s virtual platform and selected digital pages to maintain ongoing online visibility.

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Future Fest Connect & Kid's Gaming Nights Initiative

Future Fest Connect

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