SpaceCom Launch in Houston Draws More than 1,700 Attendees
January 16, 2016
The first annual SpaceCom (Space Commerce Conference and Expo) drew more than 1,700 professionals, representing the aerospace, financial, energy, medical, maritime, satellite communications and advanced manufacturing industries.
The three-day event took place Nov. 17-19 at the George R. Brown Convention Center in Houston, capitalizing on an estimated $320 billion global space economy-one that's growing by the minute.
Visit Houston/Houston First Corp. and National Trade Productions (NTP) partnered to create SpaceCom.
"We could not have asked for a better launch for SpaceCom,” said NTP Founder and Chairman Robert Harar.
He added, “We exceeded expectations in nearly every metric, which is exceptional for a launch event. NTP has produced many events, but never one with such a unique partnership structure that brought so much to the table. Houston could not have been a better location or partner for SpaceCom."
Satellite Applications Catapult CEO Stuart Martin said in his Nov.18 keynote, "In the last 24 hours, SpaceCom has become the premier event for the commercial space industry."
Here are some of the highlights from SpaceCom 2015.
- Attendees representing 37 states and 23 countries, with delegations from the United Kingdom and Italy
- 100-plus booths showcasing innovative and collaborative products and services
- More than 50 media representatives from around the world
- Taped address from Sen. Ted Cruz and two feeds from astronauts aboard the International Space Station
- Keynotes from NASA Administrator Charles Bolden, Virgin Galactic CEO George Whitesides, Satellite Applications Catapult CEO Stuart Martin, Royal Dutch Shell CTO Yuri Sebregts, and author Chris Impey
- Exposition floor with an opening reception, Innovation Theater, VIP Meet and Greets, NASA Modular Robotic Vehicle (MRV) and show floor tours
- First-ever Commercial Spaceport Summit with representatives from 14 international spaceports
SpaceCom was born out of the desire of the Houston community to showcase the current advancements in space technology, as well as seed the new markets that are created at the intersection of space and other industries, according to show officials.
In 2012, officials from JSC connected with Visit Houston, which already has successfully partnered in the creation of other shows including Comicpalooza and Medical World Americas.
Next, a taskforce including representatives from NASA JSC, Rice University, Houston Airport System, economic development agencies and others was formed to examine the feasibility of such an event.
Once the concept proved viable, Visit Houston approached National Trade Productions, a leader in conference and trade show management, to help make it a reality.
"I think what's unique about SpaceCom is the seamless partnership that was created between a quasi-governmental agency with Visit Houston/Houston First, a full-fledged government agency with NASA and a private sector company like NTP," said Michael Heckman, vice president for Partnerships and Event Development at Houston First Corp.
He added, "Despite the different perspectives, we were able to come together and execute this event in a way that will build a foundational, first-of-its kind marketplace for the space commerce industry and create a legacy event for the Houston region."
SpaceCom 2016 will take place Nov. 15-17 at the George R. Brown Convention Center.
Partner Voices
Overview:
The award-winning Orange County Convention Center (OCCC) goes the extra mile to make every day extraordinary by offering customer service excellence and industry-leading partnerships. From their dedicated in-house Rigging team to their robust Exhibitor Services, The Center of Hospitality brings your imagination to life by helping you host unforgettable meetings and events. With more than 2 million square feet of exhibit space, world-class services and a dream destination, we are committed to making even the most ambitious conventions a reality.
In October 2023, the Orange County Board of County Commissioners voted to approve allocating Tourist Development Tax funding for the $560 million Phase 5A completion of the OCCC. The Convention Way Grand Concourse project will include enhancements to the North-South Building, featuring an additional 60,000 square feet of meeting space, an 80,000- square-foot ballroom and new entry to the North-South Building along Convention Way.
“We are thrilled to begin work on completing our North-South Building which will allow us to meet the growing needs of our clients,” said OCCC Executive Director Mark Tester. “As an economic driver for the community, this project will provide the Center with connectivity and meeting space to host more events and continue to infuse the local economy with new money and expanding business opportunities.”
Amenities:
The Center of Hospitality goes above and beyond by offering world-class customer service and industry-leading partnerships. From the largest convention center Wi-Fi network to custom LAN/WAN design, the Center takes pride in enhancing exhibitor and customer experience.
The OCCC is the exclusive provider of electricity (24-hour power at no additional cost), aerial rigging and lighting, water, natural gas and propane, compressed air, and cable TV services. Convenience
The Center is at the epicenter of the destination, with an abundance of hotels, restaurants, and attractions within walking distance. Pedestrian bridges connect both buildings to more than 5,200 rooms and is within a 15-minute drive from the Orlando International Airport. The convenience of the location goes hand-in-hand with top notch service to help meet an event’s every need.
Gold Key Members
The OCCC’s Gold Key Members represent the best of the best when it comes to exceptional service and exclusive benefits for clients, exhibitors and guests. The Center’s Gold Key memberships with Universal Orlando Resort, SeaWorld Orlando and Walt Disney World greatly enhance meeting planner and attendee experiences offering world-renowned venues, immersive experiences and creative resources for their events.
OCCC Events:
This fiscal year, the OCCC is projected to host 168 events, 1.7 million attendees, and $2.9 billion in economic impact.
The Center’s top five events during their 2022-2023 fiscal year included:
AAU Jr. National Volleyball Championships 2023
200,000 Attendees
$257 Million in Economic Impact
MEGACON 2023
160,000 Attendees
$205 Million in Economic Impact
Open Championship Series 2023
69,500 Attendees
$89 Million in Economic Impact
Sunshine Classic 2023
42,000 Attendees
$54 Million in Economic Impact
Premiere Orlando 2023
42,000 Attendees
$108 Million in Economic Impact
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