SBJ Events

SBJ's 2026 Brand Innovation Summit set an attendance record as the marketing industry converged on Chicago to learn the best ways to connect with sports fans. This Behind the Scenes look showcases the people that made the event a success.

SBJ would like to express our sincere gratitude to each of our sponsors, speakers, attendees and other guests for their participation in and support of the Brand Innovation Summit.

SBJ’s Brand Innovation Summit wrapped up Wednesday, and here are the stories that have come out of the event:

Attendees were hit with steady surprise-and-delight experiences from a multitude of brands, which either handed out some of their latest products or gave out gifts that were placed under chairs in the conference space.

Here’s a quick rundown on what stood out across the Brand Innovation Summit’s two days in the Windy City.

Marketers from the sports industry and beyond wrapped up the Brand Innovation Summit at the Chicago Marriott Downtown Magnificent Mile on Wednesday.

CHICAGO — “It’s incredible, but we can’t take our foot off the gas.”

Day 2 of SBJ’s Brand Innovation Summit opened in Chicago with a “CMO In The Spotlight” session with Kristyn Cook, State Farm’s executive vice president and chief agency, sales & marketing officer.

Day 2 of SBJ’s Brand Innovation Summit in Chicago kicks off with a CMO In the Spotlight session with Kristyn Cook, State Farm EVP & Chief Agency, Sales & Marketing Officer. The morning sessions feature in-depth looks at the success of particular pairings -- PepsiCo and women’s sports; Cheez-...

CMOs, brand leaders and more converged on Chicago Marriott Downtown Magnificent Mile on Tuesday to discuss the world of sports sponsorship and marketing.