Conference sponsorship update.

Beginning in 2001, TEI has invited various firms to become sponsors of its Midyear and Annual Conferences. TEI's program has four different levels of sponsors--Platinum, Gold, Silver, and Bronze--with the sponsorship fee and benefits varying with the level of sponsorship. The sponsorship program has given conference registrants access to professionals from law and accounting firms, tax research and information companies, and other professional enterprises whose products and services are aimed at corporate tax departments, while generating revenues that have permitted TEI to keep its registration fees and dues in check. (Conference registration fees have generally not increased for three years, and the Institute's dues have remained at $200/year for well more than a decade.)

With respect to TEI's 2004 Midyear Conference, 34 firms became sponsors of the Midyear Conference, 18 of which maintained exhibits during the conference. (TEI's Midyear Conference sponsors are listed in this issue's President's Corner column.) In addition, 16 sponsors hosted receptions during the conference (4 on Sunday evening and 12 on Monday evening). By all accounts, those events were enjoyed by conference registrants. To encourage conference registrants to stop by their exhibits or receptions, several sponsors distributed souvenirs or conducted prize drawings.

From the outset, TEI has solicited feedback from conference participants about the sponsorship program. The comments received from TEI members has generally been positive, though some registrants have voiced concern about the possible effect of sponsorships, exhibits, and receptions on camaraderie and networking among members and the overall professionalism of the Institute. The Institute has found the sponsors receptive to changes designed to address these concerns.

Among the benefits accorded conference sponsors are acknowledgments in the conference program and blast email messages emanating from TEI, advertisements in The Tax Executive magazine, and assistance in connection with any social event the sponsor may wish to host during the conference. In addition, a limited number of Platinum sponsors are permitted to attend the Tuesday night banquet at the conference. Another benefit is a one-time "license" for sponsors to communicate with registrants after the conference. To our knowledge, there have been no violations of TEI's policy. Anyone having comments or concerns about the sponsorship program is invited to send comments and suggestions to [e-mail].

Second dues notices are in the mail, but you can also pay your dues by visiting www.tel.org. To renew online:

1) Click on Member Services

2) Click on Login 

3) Enter your Login & Password

4) Click on "Renewal Reminder"

5) Click on "Add to Basket"

6) Enter your credit card information.