An AI Experience at Hillsborough County
We’re excited to host our AI-focused utility event in Florida.
April 10, 2026
What to Expect
At Think Higher, utility leaders and innovators will share real-world experiences, lessons learned, and strategies that are transforming the industry. You’ll explore the future of customer and grid innovation, discover new ways technology is driving smarter connections and operational efficiency, and gain practical insights you can immediately apply within your organization. The day will also include a unique giveback initiative, bringing participants together to make a meaningful impact in the local community.
After the incredible energy and turnout at last year’s Think Higher event in Toronto, we’re excited to bring everyone together again—this time at Hillsborough County’s offices in Tampa! It’s a unique opportunity for utility leaders to see how another organization is approaching innovation from the inside, not from a conference center or hotel ballroom.
Here’s what you can look forward to this year
Real Conversations About Where AI Actually Fits
We’ll have a lineup of panels and keynotes where utility leaders, partners, and practitioners talk honestly about what’s working, what’s not, and what’s coming next. No hype—just real stories, lessons learned, and practical takeaways you can bring home.
A Comfortable, Collaborative Atmosphere
One of the things people loved most last year was how easy it was to connect with others. This event keeps that spirit. Whether you’re exploring new ideas or just curious about what others are doing, you’ll find people who are open, welcoming, and happy to share.
Demos You Can See Up Close
We’ll showcase tools and approaches that utilities are already using today. It’s hands-on and conversational, not a sales pitch—just a chance to explore what’s possible and ask questions in real time.
A Giveback Moment That Matters
We’re partnering with a local nonprofit again this year for a community-focused activity. It’s a simple way for all of us to step out of our day-to-day work and give something meaningful back to the city hosting us.
Speakers (So Far)
Steve Dawson
Founder & President
POWERCONNECT.AI
Georges Gonzalez
Enterprise Solutions Division Director
Hillsborough County Water Resources Dept.
Christina Northrup-DeBellis
President
BHC Global
Maria Barannikova
Manager of Sales and Marketing
BHC Global
Sponsorships
A Great Opportunity for Partners, Too
For sponsors, this is a relaxed but high-value setting to meet utility teams who are actively building their roadmaps. Last year’s partners told us the intimate format helped create better conversations—and we’re building on that same model again.
We’re in the early planning stages, and this is the perfect time to join us.
Early sponsors will have the chance to help shape panels, participate in agenda discussions, and secure the most visible opportunities.
This event is free for all utility participants.
Platinum Sponsor – Happy Hour (Premier Level)
Estimated Investment: $6,000
Includes:
Exclusive branding for the Happy Hour (Thursday 5 to 8pm): signage, menus, tabletop cards, and welcome displays.
Largest logo placement on:
Event landing page
Registration confirmation emails
Stage backdrop
Printed agenda
Verbal recognition during opening remarks and at the start of the Happy Hour.
Option to place one banner or step-and-repeat at the venue.
Ability to include two branded items in attendee welcome bags.
Four complimentary event registrations.
Why Platinum: Highest cost, widest visibility, and the only sponsor tied to a networking/social anchor event.
Silver Sponsor – Lunch Sponsor
Estimated Investment: $1,500
Includes:
Branding on lunch boxes (Panera), table signage, and lunch-hour screens.
Logo displayed on:
Event landing page
Printed agenda
On-screen slides during lunch
Verbal thank-you before lunch begins.
One complimentary event registration.
Option to include a small card or promo material in welcome bags.
Gold Sponsor – Give Back Activity
Estimated Investment: $2,500–$3,000
Includes:
Primary branding for the Give Back Experience (shirts, supply tables, signage). Note: Include picture of shirts and event from Toronto
Large logo placement on:
Landing page
Printed agenda
On-screen slides during the Give Back transition
Verbal recognition during the Give Back introduction.
Option to give a 2–3 minute welcome message before the activity starts.
Ability to include one branded item in attendee welcome bags.
Two complimentary event registrations.
Bronze Sponsor – Breakfast & Coffee Sponsor
Estimated Investment: $1,000
Includes:
Branding at the coffee and breakfast station (table signage, napkin cards).
Logo on:
Event landing page
Printed agenda
Verbal thank-you during morning remarks.
Option to place a small tabletop display at the refreshment station.