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Industry Innovators 2022: Bram Goldstein

The founder of BIG HQ produces attention-grabbing events for clients like adidas, KPMG, and RBC.

Industry Innovators 2022: Bram Goldstein
"We love to ideate, create, fabricate, and figure ’stuff’ out, all to see that smile on a client's face when they say to us 'that was the best ever,'" Goldstein says.
Photo: Courtesy of BIG HQ Inc.

Industry Innovators 2022: Bram GoldsteinPhoto: Courtesy of Bram GoldsteinBram Goldstein is the founder of BIG HQ Inc., based in Toronto.

How he got his start: Goldstein worked in advertising and at Universal Films before launching his own agency, and he credits the ad and film worlds for connecting him with companies and brands, teaching him to "invent, design, and learn about the consumer on many different levels," he explains.

"Since 2001, I've been called an event producer, an entertainment guru, a value-added resource, a relationship-builder, and a creative visionary," Goldstein adds. "The plethora of experiences I've created alongside my team, my trusted suppliers, and our clients has led to some of the most memorable events that will be talked about for years to come."

What innovation means to him: Goldstein refers to innovation as a benchmark of success. "In our industry, there is no such thing as an original idea—but if we can take an old concept and try it in a new way to help create a unique experience, I believe we will continually be considered innovators," he says. "For us to continue to make our mark in this industry, it is always important to have the confidence to take a risk as long as the objectives, messaging, or goals are still being met."

How he stays inspired: "Inspiration comes from our enthusiasm to pitch an idea, as good (or bad) as it may be," he says. "In order for our team to stay inspired, we don’t take on too many events throughout the year. We are fortunate to pick and choose to work with those clients who value our creativity and have a clear desire to make an impact. I would take quality over quantity all day long." Last year, BIG HQ designed a multiday kick-off conference for technology giant 1Password, during which attendees set sail on a three-day cruise to Hawaii, Alaska, and Los Angeles—virtually. See more: What Event Planners Can Learn From This Virtual Cruise ConferenceLast year, BIG HQ designed a multiday kick-off conference for technology giant 1Password, during which attendees set sail on a three-day cruise to Hawaii, Alaska, and Los Angeles—virtually. See more: What Event Planners Can Learn From This Virtual Cruise ConferencePhoto: Courtesy of BIG HQ

Career highlights: Goldstein quickly cites work his team has done for adidas on the NBA All-Star Game, or KPMG's 3,000-person holiday party.

But the two that stand out the most? "The Olympic Torch Relay on behalf of RBC, where we traveled across Canada over 106 days producing over 200 consecutive daily events," he remembers, adding that another highlight was "the Toronto Pride Parade, where we build a 100-foot sport court activation zone and a parade float."

His favorite thing about the event industry: Goldstein thrives while developing a concept or plan and then watching it come to life. "It is one of the main reasons I stay in this frenzied industry. We love to ideate, create, fabricate, and figure ’stuff’ out, all to see that smile on a client's face when they say to us 'that was the best ever.'"

This feature is sponsored by Hubilo, a leading virtual and hybrid event platform built to drive engagement, with clients including Deloitte, Coca-Cola, Amazon Web Services, and more.

Back to the full list: 11 Event Planners, Designers, & Producers to Get Inspired By