One Spark

Billed as "The World's Largest Crowdfunding Festival", One Spark returned to Jacksonville, FL this week.  Last night, my husband and I 'worked' a booth for one of the Creators, Michael Delcharco, who is showcasing his product, Bedder Covers.  As I communicated with One Spark attendees to ask for their vote, I realized how many people are downtown for the festival, yet have no idea how it works.

One Spark's Website says,

"The One Spark festival is a 5 day event plus a 1 day Speaker Summit in downtown Jacksonville, FL. The festival takes place throughout 20 blocks in downtown Jacksonville, FL this year from April 7 - 12 and is free and open to attend. Creators from six categories ( Art , Education , Health & Science , Music , Social Good and Technology ) showcase their Projects to a crowd of over 250,000 people and experience crowdfunding in-person. Attendees contribute to Creator crowdfunding campaigns and vote to distribute $150,000 of a guaranteed $350,000 in awards at One Spark. Plus, they can enjoy free live entertainment, a food village featuring some of the best chefs and food trucks in the region, Creator music stages and an incredible, jam-packed festival atmosphere."

So while voting is not required, attending the festival and NOT voting is like going to a concert but not watching the band play. 

So how do you vote?  First, know that you MUST actually attend One Spark to cast votes. Attendees register via the One Spark app or at the kiosks located around the festival.  Each 'creator' has a number.  You may vote for as many creators as you like, but you can only vote once for each creator.  The cash prizes are awarded based on the number of votes and the top vote getters for each category get bonuses.  

Direct contributions can also be made if you choose to invest in a particular project.  I saw projects like history buffs raising money for historical markers, an inventor with a new type of insulated drink cup, breakdancers raising money for who knows what, artists, musicians, missionaries and a kids gym.

There are bands playing, food tents and amazing people watching opportunities but don't let that distract you from the vote!

One Spark 2015 concludes this Sunday when awards are announced.  If you head down there, please be sure to vote for Bedder Covers, #21857.  (shameless plug)