ENERGY DISRUPTORS UNITE 2024

Custom Brand & Design

The EDU Summit 2024 reimagined its brand to align with a future-forward aesthetic. Moving away from its previous '90s-inspired visuals, the updated branding embraced bold colours, negative space, and Scandinavian-inspired design, reflecting a theme of energy transformation. Every design choice, from the stage to the sponsor activations, reinforced the core values of being rebellious, radically inclusive, creative, knowledgeable, nerdy, and empowering. The venue itself was transformed to embody this theme, utilizing over half of the second floor and the entire third floor of the newly expanded BMO Centre, totaling over 70,000 sq. ft. The design also aligned with sustainability goals, using minimal print signage and maximizing digital and reusable assets.

Registration & Networking 

Our team managed the registration process, including the event website and on-site check-in through CVENT, integrating custom branding throughout the experience. The app featured daily push notifications, and QR codes throughout the venue helped streamline information access. Networking was built into every element of the space design, with daylight-filled lounge areas, comfortable seating in breakout spaces, and dedicated networking breaks.

The VIP experience offered exclusive networking in a high-end airport-lounge-inspired setting with all-day food and beverage, swag bags, and live-streamed mainstage content. Three major sponsor activations in the foyer [detailed below] were not just booths, but intentionally designed spaces to foster conversation and rejuvenation.

Main stage 

The mainstage was engineered for maximum immersion. A unique offset layout featured two 100-foot screens flanking a central corner screen, enveloping delegates in the content. Tiered seating ensured an inclusive view. Programming centered on human innovation, geopolitics, and global collaboration, with dynamic keynote sessions and performances.

Notable speakers included:

- Yuval Noah Harari (via hologram)

- Jacinda Ardern (Former Prime Minister of New Zealand)

- Sanna Marin (Former Prime Minister of Finland)

- Holly Ransom, who hosted and facilitated critical discussions

Artistic breaks featured hoop artist Kate Ryan, violinist Angela Smart, contemporary dance trios, and other musical acts, creating sensory-rich transitions between sessions.

Breakout rooms 

There were three distinct breakout tracks, each with a unique design and content theme:

RBC Track – “The Gallery”

The RBC Gallery track focused on sustainable innovation and investment, offering a sophisticated, light-filled space designed to encourage both deep discussion and relaxed networking. The room featured expansive wall-to-wall windows that flooded the space with natural light, which could be darkened for presentations to maintain focus and impact. 

A curated art gallery by local artist Shannon Carla King added a cultural layer to the experience, with pieces that told stories of energy reclamation and transformation. Seating was arranged in café-style tables where attendees could enjoy sustainable lunch options, blending nourishment and conversation. Programming in this space centered on finance’s critical role in the energy transition, including panels on public-private partnerships and innovative climate investment strategies.

Kaben Track

Celebrating Canada’s leadership in clean energy and decarbonization, the Kaben Track immersed delegates in a uniquely Canadian environment. Guests entered through a forest-inspired entryway and were welcomed into a warm, cabin-style space complete with cozy chairs, a fireplace, and rustic decor. This inviting design set the tone for relaxed yet impactful fireside chats that explored Canada’s evolving energy landscape and global influence. The food and beverage offerings were equally thoughtful, featuring a coffee bar, fresh doughnuts, and a nostalgic s’mores station. The combination of casual hospitality and high-level content created an atmosphere of comfort, curiosity, and meaningful connection.

New Energy Track

The New Energy Track embodied the summit’s future-forward ethos, immersing attendees in a sleek, tech-centric environment focused on next-generation energy innovation. Designed by EDU, the space featured a phoenix-inspired stage backdrop symbolizing transformation, complemented by vibrant LED pixel lighting and pops of orange in the furniture. Delegates were encouraged to choose their own adventure with a mix of bean bags, couches, lounge furniture, and traditional banquet seating. The content was equally dynamic, including a keynote delivered by a world record holder submerged in an ice bath and a geothermal session designed specifically for young leaders. The result was an immersive, energetic space that inspired bold thinking and showcased the disruptive potential of global energy innovation.

Sponsor Activations

Bookstore & Coffee Shop [High Production Value Oasis]

This activation was designed as a high-production-value oasis within the conference, offering guests a cozy, thoughtfully curated space to unwind and connect. Centered around a full-sized tree installation and styled with soft seating and a modern bookstore aesthetic, the environment invited calm and curiosity. The shelves featured a curated selection of books on energy, innovation, and technology, reinforcing the intellectual theme of the summit. Guests were treated to fresh coffee, specialty teas, and an assortment of pastries, making it a popular hub for organic conversations and impromptu meetings. The atmosphere struck a balance between relaxation and inspiration, giving attendees a break from high-energy sessions without leaving the summit mindset behind.

Electric Highway

This activation offered delegates a cross-country journey through Canada’s energy future. Designed as an interactive experience with digital touchpoints and educational signage, it guided guests through a showcase of sustainable energy initiatives from coast to coast. The decor featured visually dynamic stations and photo opportunities, encouraging guests to engage with the story of innovation and clean tech from each province. Adding a sensory layer, the food and beverage offerings represented Canada’s culinary icons; Montreal bagels, Alberta Caesars, and other regional specialties. The activation combined storytelling, national pride, and sustainability education, leaving delegates with a memorable and tangible connection to Canada’s role in the energy transition.

Nordic Spa Experience

This wellness-inspired activation was a tranquil retreat designed for guests to recharge both mentally and physically. Set in a spa-like environment with ambient lighting, calming forest tones, and inviting massage chairs, the space provided an immediate sense of serenity. Scented essential oils, infused waters, and bowls of curated candy completed the sensory experience. Guests could receive massages, relax in lounge-style seating, and take advantage of integrated charging stations subtly placed throughout the area. More than just a break, this activation embodied the summit’s commitment to holistic well-being, reminding attendees that recharging themselves is as essential as powering the energy solutions of tomorrow.

The whizbang moment from this event was the extensive digital reach. EDU generated over 3 million digital impressions with a remarkable 261.8% LinkedIn follower growth, amplifying brand reach well beyond the event.