Challenge:

In 2009, leadership of the VA-AREA approached HCP with a desire to reinvigorate the discussion of what the state could do from a policy perspective to attract more renewable energy investment, manufacturing, jobs, and production. They also hoped to develop a forum for those in the business of producing renewable energy or hoping to enter the business one day soon, with panels dedicated to everything from raising capital to developing partnerships with utility companies.

Solution:

HCP organized a regional conference to bring together business and political leaders to help the VA-AREA achieve its outreach goals. HCP worked with the VA-AREA team to develop a plan for their inaugural conference, which was soon branded the Virginia Alterative & Renewable Energy Conference (VAREC). HCP developed the logo, positioning line, and a full line of marketing collateral ranging from the website to public relations.  HCP directed and managed the entire two day event, producing all the tradeshow plans for VAREC in addition to preparing all marketing and promotional options for participating vendors.

HCP coordinated with Virginia business leaders, current and former local and state-level politicians, and bipartisan lobbying firms, as well as other non-profit organizations in the area, to draw in an impressive lineup of speakers and exhibitors for the inaugural conference.

The public relations and social media promotions proved successful enough that the incoming governor of Virginia, Bob McDonnell, attended the event.