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Each year at NatCon, we host thousands of health care professionals for three days of learning, networking and entertainment. Among them are representatives from hundreds of best-in-class behavioral health care organizations, each offering tools, resources and services that are transforming the field. We spoke with the National Council’s Manager of Conference Exhibit & Sponsorship Sales, Alaina Herrera (pictured above in yellow), to learn more about the Exhibit Hall experience.
NatCon boasts one of the most diverse mix of exhibitors in the industry. What type of exhibitors do you look for when building the Exhibit Hall each year?
“The type of exhibitors we seek are the companies and/or organizations that are looking to make a significant impact in the mental health and substance use care field. We look for those that offer innovative solutions and services, support efforts to raise awareness about mental wellbeing, and contribute to improving research and care. In our Exhibit Hall, you can find solutions across health information technology, education and training, telepsychiatry and more. We have a range of company sizes represented on site — from small organizations to large enterprises!”
One of the most consistent things we hear from NatCon attendees is how electric the Exhibit Hall is. How would you describe the Exhibit Hall experience?
“We designed the Exhibit Hall to be the core of the conference — a vibrant and central hub. It’s truly dynamic and engaging, from the exhibits to the activities. There’s no single way to navigate the Exhibit Hall. Attendees have the flexibility to explore at their own pace. If your goal is to connect with industry leaders, attend thought leader sessions and demonstrations, participate in a community give-back project or unwind in areas like our café, puppy park or arcade, you can accomplish all of that within the hall. We really do have something for everyone. The energy is off the charts!”
In your opinion, what separates NatCon from the conference competition?
“NatCon is a horizontal show, meaning we offer something for every sector in the industry. There is a wide range of content that may inspire attendees to explore new ideas or solutions they hadn’t before considered. I think what also sets us apart is our commitment to helping attendees feel heard and supported. They’re doing important work in their communities — many with limited resources — and this is an opportunity for them to recharge and reconnect with their field.”
You’ve been supporting our annual conference for several years now. When you reflect back on previous NatCons, is there one in particular that sticks out?
“I would say NatCon22, since it was our first conference after the COVID-19 pandemic and my first in-person NatCon. It was special meeting everyone face to face for the first time. You could feel how genuine the excitement was and the appreciation to reconnect. I’m fortunate that I get to work with a range of organizations who unite at NatCon with a common goal: To make a difference in mental health and substance use care. It’s fun seeing the creative ideas they implement to reach their own goals and help others do the same.”
Is there anything you’d like to share with potential NatCon25 exhibitors or sponsors who might be reading this right now?
“Yes! If you want to have a commanding presence at the biggest event in behavioral health care, you’ll need to act fast — we’ve already sold nearly 50% of our floor space. We also have exclusive sponsorship opportunities that can get you in front of nearly 6,000 health care professionals across the country, from clinicians and medical directors to C-suite leaders and peer specialists. Let’s talk!”
