Behind The Numbers Of MIC 2023
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1582 Attended
Last week marked an unprecedented milestone for MIC as we hosted our largest audience to date. Across three dynamic days, we saw a gathering of 1,582 individuals in Las Vegas who engaged in our activations, attended insightful talks, collaborated, and networked with prominent leaders from the military-connected community. As we gear up for our 2024 event, we are eager to share some of the critical statistics that shaped this remarkable experience.
By Activation
On November 7th, Vanguard XXI and Recurrent Military hosted an exclusive, invitation-only reception at the Allē Lounge, situated 66 floors above Las Vegas’s vibrant neon lights. The Allē Lounge boasts breathtaking views of the iconic Las Vegas Strip and provides an unparalleled setting for an evening dedicated to networking, collaboration, and celebration. This premier event set the stage for MIC, featuring opening remarks and a celebratory atmosphere with 208 leaders enjoying a thoughtfully curated meal and handcrafted cocktails.
On November 8th, AAFMAA welcomed 100 spouses to the Rose Rooftop Foyer for a fabulous lunch accompanied by laughter, giveaways, and the opportunity to learn new resources. Proudly sponsored by SpouseLink, a resource for military spouses created by AAFMAA (the American Armed Forces Mutual Aid Association), the event was an engaging and empowering experience, reinforcing our shared strength and unity.
Later that day, 539 of us gathered on the Rose Rooftop for #Vetogether, the MIC’s opening reception. USAA Small Business Insurance provided our entire community with a warm welcome and the official kickoff to the 2023 Military Influencer Conference against the backdrop of the Las Vegas skyline. We conversed and enjoyed a stunning view of the Las Vegas Strip. The Rose Rooftop became a networking soirée which connected fellow participants, conference speakers, and sponsors.
November 9th was filled to the brim with engaging activities. In collaboration with ACT Now Education, Nellis Air Force Base, Transition Careers, and RTX, we welcomed over 300 Active Duty Service Members to MIC. A standout moment was our first-ever hiring fair, where, thanks to a partnership with Act Now, more than 40 employers engaged directly with service members in transition, seeking their next careers after military service. As the day turned to evening, ReActiv8 hosted a reception and lit up the stage with Comedy Night, featuring comedians from Operation HEAL*ARIOUS tour. A crowd of over 300 people were entertained while GOVX contributed prizes, and the event concluded with an unforgettable mic drop.
55.3% Women
Our goal is to create an inclusive experience for all. A key indicator of MIC’s success is the representation of women among our attendees. We are proud to announce that this year, women comprised 55.3% of our conference participants, affirming our commitment to offering a safe and welcoming environment for a diverse audience.
Furthermore:
- Military spouses accounted for 22% of our attendees.
- Women represented 45% of the veterans in attendance.
22% Local to Las Vegas
We are dedicated to creating a significant local impact. With the support of key organizations such as the Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Benefits Guide, Veterans Social Club, the Southern Nevada Chamber of Commerce, and the First Command Team from Las Vegas, we have cultivated a robust network of local advocates. These alliances are crucial to the success of our mission and the profound local influence we gathered in 2023.
Additionally:
- 44%, of attendees were from areas within a five-hour drive of Las Vegas.
- And 32% of attendees traveled from major states like California, Texas, and Virginia
92 Organizations
This year saw the gathering of leaders from 92 distinct organizations, all committed to driving change within the military-connected community.
85 Partners
MIC’s success is deeply rooted in the support from our partners. This year, we were joined by 85 partners, showcasing across 42,000 square meters of exhibition space in Las Vegas. Our esteemed partners included USAA, National University, RTX, Armed Forces Insurance, New Rez, the United States Patent and Trademark Office, and the Department of Veteran Affairs, amongst many others.
Mighty 25 Gala
At our Second Annual Gala, sponsored by National University, we proudly presented the “MIGHTY 25.” This prestigious roster recognizes the most impactful advocates, transformative changemakers, unsung heroes, devoted servant leaders, and pioneering influencers from the military and veteran community.
The evening’s highlight was the esteemed introduction of Colonel James Harvey, an Air Force officer and former African American fighter pilot with the 332nd Fighter Group’s 99th Fighter Squadron, famously known as the Tuskegee Airmen or “Red Tails”—a group that earned formidable respect from even their enemy, the German pilots.
7 Service Dogs
MIC wouldn’t be the same without our four-legged friends. Next year, let’s make sure to design a dedicated space for them, creating a welcoming home for our furry companions throughout the event.