CONFERENCE PROSPECTUS

ALL ABOUT DECAWith nearly a 70-year history, DECA has impacted the lives of more than ten million students, educators, school administrators and business professionals since it was founded in 1946. Their strong connection with our organization has resonated into a brand that people identify as a remarkable experience in the preparation of emerging leaders and entrepreneurs. DECA’s programs and activities have constantly evolved as we use the latest technology and apply cutting edge educational research.

HOW YOU CAN BE EPICAs a business and industry leader, your support plays a significant role in the success of the Central Region Leadership Conference.• EXHIBITOR – Our student members and faculty advisors operate school-

based enterprises at their schools. Let DECA members know how they can use your products and services, boost your awareness, and recruit top future talent from across the region. [PAGE 3]

• SPONSOR – There are multiple sponsorship opportunities including three general sessions, entertainment activities, leadership luncheons, workshop tracks, and special conference features. This is a great way to help DECA members and promote your organization. [PAGE 4]

• GIFTOR – Do you have access to cool products and services that students and teachers would love to use? Giveaways for sessions, social media and special awards are needed.

• PRESENTER – We need dynamic leaders in business and industry that are willing to inspire young people as they pursue careers in business, marketing, management, entrepreneurship and technology. Presenters will deliver a 45 minute workshop two times on Saturday, November 21, 2015. [PAGE 5]

• VOLUNTEER JUDGE – Connect personally with DECA members by volunteering as a judge in the CRLC Role Play Competition to help students prepare for competitive events in the upcoming year. [PAGE 5]

EPIC BENEFITS• With over 2,000 high school students and advisors from the 13 states

of the Central Region attending, your brand will be promoted through various social media outlets.

• DECA is a 501(c)(3) career and technical student organization that prepares emerging leaders and entrepreneurs for careers in marketing, finance, hospitality and management in high schools and colleges around the globe. By giving back, you are helping prepare our future leaders.

CRLC 2015 IN KANSAS CITY, MOThe 2015 Central Region Leadership Conference will bring together over 2,000 high school students from 13 chartered associations in the Midwest, November 20-22, 2015. This three-day conference is full of leadership development, networking, and career exploration. Our content will feature speakers from the marketing industry, leadership development, and include energy-packed general sessions. With countless opportunities to connect with advisors and students, we are seeking business and marketing leaders to share their time, talent, and expertise with conference attendees.

DISCOVER THE EXCITING OPPORTUNITIES THAT AWAIT AT DECA.ORG/CRLC

EPIC EXHIBITORJOIN THE COLLEGE, COMPANY & CAREER CONNECTION (C3)Interact with the next generation’s up-and-coming student leaders. Connect with over 2,000 students (freshman through senior year) and advisors from across the Midwest. Participants are channeled into the exhibit area from meetings and workshops.

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 20, 2015 Set-up: 3:00 pm - 6:00 pm

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 21, 2015 Exhibit Hours: 8:00 am - 3:30 pm

CONFERENCE LOCATIONWestin Crown Center1 East Pershing RoadKansas City, Mo 64108Conference Lodging Rate: $129.00/Night + Tax

RATES$350 per booth, which includes• Draped and skirted table • Two chairs• Identification signLabor, shipping charges, special lighting and electrical connectons are NOT included.

I AM EPIC! RESERVE MY SPACETo reserve your exhibit space for CRLC 2015, please complete the Application for Exhibit Space found on page 6.

TENTATIVE CONFERENCE AGENDAFRIDAY, NOVEMBER 20, 20159:00 am - 5:00 pm Registration (Determined by Chartered Associations)9:00 am - 5:00 pm Industry Tours (Pre-registration Required)10:00 am - 11:30 am Chartered Association Advisors Meeting & Brunch3:00 pm – 6:00 pm College, Company & Career Connection (C3) Exhibit Set Up5:00 pm - 7:00 pm Chartered Association Delegation Meetings (Check with Your Advisor)5:00 pm - 7:00 pm Dinner On Your Own7:00 pm - 8:15 pm EPIC ENERGY Opening General Session Featuring Eddie Slowikowski, Keynote Speaker8:45 pm - 9:30 pm DECA-Related Workshops - Part I9:45 pm - 10:30 pm DECA-Related Workshops - Part II11:00 pm - 11:30 pm Chapter Meetings11:30 pm Curfew

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 21, 20157:00 am – 12:00 am FOREVER EPIC KC Conference Headquarters8:00 am - 3:30 pm College, Company & Career Connection (C3) Exhibits8:15 am - 9:00 am EPIC MORNING General Session Featuring KC Marching Cobras9:30 am - 4:00 pm EPIC NETWORKING Learning Labs (9:30 , 10:30 am, 1:00, 2:00 & 3:00 pm) Business Management & Administration Finance Hospitality, Travel & Tourism Marketing Leadership & Personal Development Professional Development (Advisors)11:30 am - 12:45 pm EPIC LEADERSHIP Chartered Association Officer Luncheon11:30 am - 12:45 pm Lunch On Your Own4:00 pm - 9:00 pm Discover FOREVER EPIC KC on your own9:00 pm - 11:00 pm EPIC ENTERTAINMENT11:30 pm Curfew

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 23, 20159:00 am - 10:30 am EPIC OPPORTUNITIES Closing Session (Wear Your Conference T-Shirt) Featuring Laymon Hicks, Keynote Speaker11:30 am Board of Governor’s Meeting

EXHIBITOR INFORMATION AND CONFERENCE SCHEDULE

LINDA KREHBIEL CONFERENCE COORDINATORmodecalinda@gmail.com 816.786.0464

FOR MORE INFORMATION

CONFERENCE EVENTS & SESSIONSEPIC LEADERSHIP SPONSORSHIP………………………………………… $5000Be the first to welcome over 2,000 attendees! Your complimentary tabletop display will be given top priority with this sponsorship. Your company name and logo will be prominently displayed on signage outside the room and in the conference program.

OPENING SESSION AND KEYNOTE SPONSORSHIP…………… $5000All conference attendees will gather for this exciting conference kick-off with special appearance by dynamic keynote speaker, Eddie Slowikowski. Receive reserved seatng for your company representatives at the Opening Session on Friday evening. Your company name and logo will be prominently displayed in the promotional video at the session and highlighted in the conference program. A complimentary tabletop display is also included.

CLOSING SESSION AND KEYNOTE SPONSORSHIP……………. $5000Receive reserved seating for your company representatives at the Closing Session on Sunday morning. Your company name and logo will be prominently displayed in the promotional video marketplace slides at the session and highlighted in the conference program. The finale to the conference will be one to remember as we keep the celebration going until the final wrap of the gavel. This session will feature a performance by the inspiring Laymon Hicks.

EPIC MORNING & GENERAL SESSION SPONSORSHIP……….. $5000A day of career-related workshops will begin with a morning session you won’t want to miss! The KC Marching Cobra’s will energize attendees and leave them ready to tackle the day ahead.

EPIC ENTERTAINMENT SPONSORSHIP………………………………… $5000Featuring fun, food and entertainment the 2015 CRLC EPIC Dance is sure to be the ultimate networking experience. Your company name and logo will be prominently displayed throughout the dynamic video presentation at this energetic event and will also be highlighted in the conference program.

COLLEGE & CAREER LEARNING LAB SPONSORSHIP………… $1000Sponsor a career-focused workshop track to receive extra recognition throughout the conference. Each track will include a ‘feature speaker’ to be highlighted in the conference program. Choose from: Finance; Hospitality, Travel & Tourism; Leadership & Personal Development; Business Management & Administration; Marketing; and Professional Development.

ADVISOR RECEPTION SPONSORSHIP…………………………………. $2500Network with the most innovative marketing educators who impact our students at this evening event. Your company name and logo will be featured on event signage and in the conference program.

ADVISOR HOSPITALITY SPONSORSHIP………………………………… $1500Rise and shine on Saturday morning and network exclusively with advisors by hosting this coffee kiosk. Your company name and logo will be featured on event signage, in the conference program and on the conference website.

EPIC SPEAKERS LOUNGE SPONSORSHIP…………………………….. $1500Bill it as a professional networking opportunity on Saturday morning. Our speakers are marketing professionals who always want to network. Who knows what business deal or partnership will develop! Your company name and logo will be featured on event signage in the conference program.

CHARTERED ASSOCIATION OFFICER BANQUET………………. $2000Connect with over 100 young marketing and entrepreneurial professionals from thirteen states. Your company name and logo will be featured on event signage, in the conference program.

CRLC BOARD OF DIRECTORS LUNCHEON………………………….. $1000CRLC BOARD OF DIRECTORS DINNER………………………………… $2000This is the ideal way to get your name in front of the key decision-makers for the Central Region of DECA. Your company name and logo will be featured in the conference program.

CONFERENCE MATERIALSFOLIOS……………………………………………………………………………………. $3500All conference participants will receive a screen printed vinyl folio tohold all of their information and notes throughout the conference. The conference folio – the most used item at the conference – will feature your logo, company name and website address. Distributed to over 2,000 conference attendees!

PENS………………………………………………………………………………………… $2500All conference attendees will receive a pen as part of their registration materials to use in workshops and sessions. Your company logo will be printed on the conference pen that is distributed at the conference registration. Make sure all 2,000 attendees get your pen and see your brand!

BADGE HOLDERS & LANYARDS…………………………………………… $3000Maximize your exposure by customizing these conference lanyards cobranded with your company logo! All attendees at the conference are required to wear name badges during the entire conference. All conference participants, advisors and guests will receive a custom lanyard to be worn throughout the conference.

DRAWSTRING BACKPACKS…………………………………………………… $3500All conference participants will receive a cobranded drawstring backpack containing their registration materials to be used throughout the event.

RECOGNITION GIFTSGIFTS OF RECOGNITION………………………………………………………. $3000All conference speakers and presenters, and local chapter advisors receive a gift as a way to say thank you for their support of the organization and CRLC.

CHARTERED ASSOCIATION OFFICER GIFTS………………………. $1500Maximize your exposure by showcasing your product to approximately 100 young marketing, management and entrepreneurial professionals from thirteen states. Your company name and logo will be featured in the conference program.

CRLC BOARD OF DIRECTORS GIFTS…………………………………… $2000By underwriting the gifts for the CRLC Board of Directors, this is the ideal way to get your name in front of the key decision-makers for the Central Region of DECA. Your company name and logo will be featured in the conference program.

GENERALIf you would prefer to provide a general contribution to CRLC to use toward any of the general conference expenses, please note the amount donated on the Sponsorship Application. Your donation will be recognized in the conference program and help offset conference costs to provide a higher quality experience.

The CRLC 2015 Host Committee is open to other sponsorship suggestions to enhance our conference and further promote your organization. Contact us for more details.

SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES

EPIC PRESENTORWe need dynamic leaders in business and industry who are willing to inspire young people as they pursue careers in business, marketing, management, entrepreneurship and technology. Presenters will deliver a 45 minute workshop two times on Saturday, November 21, 2015.SELECT FROM THE FOLLOWING AREAS:

I AM AN EPIC SPEAKER! Promote your story at one of CRLC’s College & Career Learning Labs by visiting deca.org/crlc.

EPIC VOLUNTEER JUDGEROLE PLAY COMPETITION SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 21, 20159:30 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.Westin Crown Center1 East Pershing RoadKansas City, Mo 64108

Over 100 judges in the Kansas City area are needed to evaluate high school students that will participate in DECA’s Competitive Events session. Students will be presented with a case study related to marketing, management and promotion. The case study will pose a problem and students will present to you their ideas and strategies to solve the problem.

To register as a Competitive Events Judge at the Central Region Leadership Conference, please visit www.deca.org/crlc All volunteer judges will receive refreshments and a small gift of appreciation for their time. Confirmation emails and detailed instructions will be sent to all volunteer judges prior to the conference.

SIGN ME UPTo volunteer as a Judge, please visit www.deca.org/crlc.

BUSINESS MANAGEMENT & ADMINISTRATION Help students discover what it takes to plan, organize, direct and evaluate business functions essential to efficient and productive business operations.

FINANCE Share the best kept secrets of financial and investment planning, banking, insurance and business financial management.

HOSPITALITY, TRAVEL & TOURISM Allow attendees to take a trip into the world of hospitality. They will understand the management, marketing and operations of restaurants, lodging, attractions, recreation events and travel-related services.

MARKETING Students will experience real-world marketing with an exclusive look at planning, managing and performing marketing activities to reach organizational objectives at all levels.

LEADERSHIP & PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT Jump-start student leadership with thought-provoking and inspiring sessions designed to help them unlock their full potential and empower others to take action.

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT (ADVISORS) Allow teachers to take their chapter to the next level with planning strategies, management tips, and educational training services. For DECA chapter advisors and marketing educators.

LINDA KREHBIEL CONFERENCE COORDINATORmodecalinda@gmail.com 816.786.0464

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Please indicate the sponsorship you are interested in and/or the number of exhibitor display areas you would like to reserve. Sponsorships designated with an asterisk (*) will include: One (1) Waived Exhibit Booth Fee, One (1) Half-Page Ad in Conference Program, and complimentary tabletop display.

SPONSORSHIPS:

 ______ EPIC Leadership * $5,000  ______ Badge Holders & Lanyards $3,000

 ______ Opening Session and Keynote * $5,000  ______ Conference Pens $2,500

 ______ Closing Session and Keynote * $5,000  ______ Drawstring Backpacks $3,500

 ______ EPIC Morning & General Session* $5,000  ______ Gift of Recognition $3,000

 ______ EPIC Entertainment * $5,000  ______ Chartered Assoc Officer Banquet $2,000

 ______ Advisor Reception $2,500  ______ Chartered Assoc Officer Appreciation $1,500

 ______ Advisor Hospitality $1,500  ______ CRLC Board of Directors Luncheon $1,000

 ______ EPIC Speakers Lounge $1,500  ______ CRLC Board of Directors Dinner $2,000

 ______ College & Career Lab (each track) $1,000  ______ CRLC Board of DirectorsAppreciation $2,000

 ______ Conference Folios $3,500  ______ General Sponsorship $

TOTAL SPONSORSHIP AMOUNT $

EXHIBIT AREAS

 ______ 6’ draped & skirted table with tabletop display package $350 $

Please describe what you intend to exhibit. Add any special circumstances which would make it desirable to assign locations for size, corners, or other needs.

Describe any giveaways, promotions or contests to be conducted as part of the exhibit.

List Names of Exhibit Booth Representatives:

ADVERTISING

____ Quarter-Page Conference Program Ad $250.00 $

____ Half-Page Conference Program Ad $350.00 $

____ Full-Page Conference Program Ad $500.00 $

TOTAL EXHIBIT FEES: $

TOTAL ADVERTISING FEES $

COMBINED SPONSORSHIP AMOUNT, EXHIBIT & ADVERTISING FEES: $

Retain one copy for your records. Submit the original application with full payment to:DECA CRLC 2015c/o Missouri DECAP O Box 480205 Jefferson StreetJefferson City, MO 65102-0480

Your payment, in full, must accompany this application. Booths are limited and will be assigned based when full payment is received. This application and contract, when properly executed by the exhibitor and accepted by Missouri DECA, shall be considered a binding agreement subject to the rules and regulations as stated, herein. Artwork is due by October 23, 2015 and is preferred in a high-resolution file format. Artwork can be submitted to modecalinda@gmail.com.

Should you or your representatives require lodging, please click DECA CRLC Lodging Request. Rates are available until October 28.

Internal Use Only: Date rec’d: ________________ Amount rec’d: $________________ Check #: _____________________

APPLICATION AND CONTRACTEXHIBIT SPACE, SPONSORSHIP & ADVERTISING

DECA reserves the right to assign booths and will do so based upon the final number of participating exhibitors. The exhibitor assumes the entire responsibility and liability for losses, damages and claims arising out of injury or damage to exhibit displays, equipment and other property brought upon the premises of the hotel and shall indemnify and hold CRLC and its Board of Directors, conference planners and hotel staff and agents from any/all such losses, damages and claims. This Agreement Form, when properly executed by the exhibitor and accepted by CRLC shall be a binding agreement subject to “Exhibitor Information & Regulations.”

DECA reserves the right to and will strictly enforce trademark infringement laws. Any product displaying character and/or names where licensing is necessary, must submit a copy of the licensing agreement to DECA prior to the conference. DECA also restricts the sale or display of any product (including clothing) that refers to DECA, Marketing Education, Regional Conference, Career Development Conference, International Conference or An Association of Marketing Students.

PURPOSE: This conference is conducted for educational and informational purposes; to disseminate knowledge and ideas; to encourage communications; to promote product and career information.

ELIGIBLE EXHIBITS: DECA reserves the right to determine the eligibility of any Exhibitor. No Exhibitor shall sublet or share space. Exhibitors must show only goods and services used in their regular course of business. All promotional activities must be confined to the limits of the booth.

BOOTH EQUIPMENT: DECA will provide an 6-ft. draped table with two (2) chairs. The fee DOES NOT INCLUDE labor, shipping charges, special lighting or electrical connections. The hotel AV will contact you prior to the conference to offer those fee-based services.

SECURITY: The Exhibitor is solely responsible for their own exhibit material and should insure the exhibit against loss or damage. All property is understood to remain in the Exhibitor’s control in transit to and from the confines of the exhibit area. DECA assumes no liability of any kind.

FIRE, SAFETY AND HEALTH: The Exhibitor agrees to accept full responsibility for compliance with local, city and state fire, safety and health ordinances regarding the installation and operation of equipment. All exhibit materials and equipment should be used in displays and the necessary fire precautions will be a responsibility of the Exhibitor.

BADGES: Exhibitor personnel will be provided with badges to permit entry to the exhibit area. You must advise Tammy Stains by October 31 so that badges can be prepared in advance.

EXHIBITORS’ REGISTRATION: All Exhibitors must register and pick up their conference packets at the Exhibitor’s registration desk onsite. Registration fee is included in the exhibit fee for four representatives per booth space.

RESTRICTIONS: DECA reserves the right to restrict exhibits which for any reason become objectionable, and may also evict any exhibit which in the opinion of DECA detracts from the general character of the Exhibit. DECA will not be liable for any refunds or other expenses in this instance.

AUDIO VISUAL: The use of devices for mechanical reproduction of sound is prohibited. Sound of any kind must not be projected outside of booth. Motion pictures, slide demonstrations, fashion shows, karaoke, etc. are subject to prior approval by DECA.

LIABILITY: Neither DECA, nor their agents or representatives, will be responsible for any injury, loss or damage that may occur to exhibit or personnel. Exhibitor assumes entire responsibility and hereby agrees to protect, indemnify, defend and save DECA, the Westin Crown Center and its employees and agents harmless against all claims, losses and damages to persons or property, governmental charges or fines and attorney’s fees arising out of or caused by Exhibitor’s installation, removal, maintenance, occupancy or use of the exhibition premises or a part thereof, excluding any such liability caused by the sole negligence of the Westin Crown Center and its employees and agents. In addition, Exhibitor acknowledges that DECA and the Westin Crown Center do not maintain insurance covering exhibitor’s property and that it is the sole responsibility of Exhibitor to obtain business interruption and property damage insurance covering such losses by Exhibitor. The Exhibitor, on signing the contract, expressly releases the aforementioned from any and all claims.

CANCELLATIONS: This contract may not be cancelled. Return of the signed agreement obligates the Exhibitor to full payment. If space is not occupied by opening, DECA shall have the right to use such space as it sees fit.

INABILITY TO PERFORM: In the event the Exhibit is not held for any reason beyond its control, DECA reserves the right to retain part of the rental fee as shall be required to compensate for expenses incurred up to that time.

CLARIFICATION OF RULES: DECA has sole authority to interpret and enforce all rules and regulations contained herein, to make any amendments thereto and to make such further rules and regulations as shall be necessary for the orderly conduct of the Exhibit area.

RELOCATION OF EXHIBITS: DECA reserves the right to alter locations of the exhibits as shown on the official floor plan if deemed advisable and in the best interest of the conference.

SHIPMENT AND STORAGE: Information on shipping methods, storage and rates will be sent to you directly by the conference coordinator. The exhibitor agrees to ship, at own risk and expense, all articles to be exhibited.

EXHIBITOR INFORMATION & REGULATIONS