Washington, DC—The National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) announced approximately 40,000 industry professionals have already accessed the inaugural NAB Show Express since the online event launched on May 13.
The digital experience brings the annual NAB Show online with 24-hour access to premium content for the global media and entertainment community. It also offers an exclusive marketplace featuring 1,479 exhibiting companies.
The NAB Show, held annually in Las Vegas, is the largest convention encompassing media, entertainment and technology. It is the marketplace for solutions that transcend traditional broadcasting and fuel the digital storytelling economy. From creation to consumption, across multiple platforms, NAB Show is where global visionaries convene to bring content to life in new and exciting ways. 
This year, amid the pandemic, NAB Show Express has allowed participants from around the world to engage with content through social media streams, partner programs and also directly via nabshowexpress.com. In total, participants have consumed more than 1.6 million minutes of video content; they did so via the event’s broadcast channels, on-demand videos and social media streams.
Moreover, NAB Show Express continues to offer free access to more than 200 on-demand educational sessions; executive conversations; resources; and exhibits. Registration remains open at nabshowexpress.com through the end of August 2020.
“NAB Show Express is only the beginning, as we continue to develop our digital capabilities and also platforms to better engage with our community year-round,” said Chris Brown, NAB executive vice president of Conventions and Business Operations. “We see live and digital events as great complements to one another; we also look forward to offering hybrid versions of our events going forward to better serve the full gamut of the media and entertainment sector.”
Gordon Smith Keynote at 2020 NAB Show Express
Gordon Smith delivered the annual NAB Show State of the Industry address during NAB Show Express. Below are excerpts from the transcript of Smith’s remarks as prepared for delivery.
“I’d like to add my thanks to all of you for joining us for NAB Show Express. This is a new format and new experience for all of us. And while we can’t wait to be together again in Las Vegas next year, we plan to share many new digital show offerings with you in the future.
“I particularly want to take a moment and thank the companies that support the broadcasting business—our exhibitors. Without you, our show would not be what it is. We are particularly grieved not to have in-person exhibits this year. We are all enduring this hardship together and appreciate those who have been, and will continue to be, NAB Show partners.
“This current health crisis is an unprecedented time for our business . . . for our country . . . and even our world. Most of us have never lived through a global pandemic of this nature. It is impacting literally everything we do—from our families, to our friends and of course our businesses and our livelihoods. . . .
“It’s a bit ironic, or maybe fortuitous, that this year, we are celebrating the 100th anniversary of broadcasting; the story of our great industry is rooted in keeping our communities safe, informed as well as connected. . . . Throughout the last century, America’s local radio and television broadcasters were there to provide a reassuring voice and a sense of community during our nation’s most harrowing days.
Broadcasters Meet the Challenge
“Now, as the world faces an uncertain situation with the Covid-19 pandemic, your work is more important than ever. Whether it’s providing the trusted journalism that is keeping our communities informed or providing access to our nation’s leaders and medical experts to help us better understand the crisis, you are protecting lives.
“Broadcasters feel the suffering of their communities and have stepped up like never before to support small businesses and local restaurants, raise funds for those who have lost their jobs and also help feed the hungry. You’re also partnering with schools to allow teachers to assist children who have had their lives turned upside down and must transition to virtual classrooms in the home.
“The response from broadcasters, who themselves are fighting for their lives and livelihoods, is nothing short of phenomenal. We are incredibly grateful to all the stations who are airing NAB’s spots to help stop the spread of Covid-19, donating nearly $100 million worth of airtime so far.
“But your commitment goes far beyond airing public service announcements. You are not simply helping your communities stay healthy, you are also offering them hope and giving them a literal lifeline. You are a connection when Americans are desperately seeking ways to stay connected. This is what broadcasters have done for 100 years.
“We know this is likely the most challenging time local stations have encountered. This pandemic has crippled our nation’s economy, and our industry was not spared. Broadcasters are confronting plummeting advertising sales and enormous operational challenges. And yet, stations are doing what they do best: delivering the trusted and lifesaving information your communities need.”
NAB Support
“We know you cannot rest; we won’t either. NAB is working around the clock to deliver meaningful relief for the industry. We have appreciated the hard work and support of our state broadcast associations in our efforts. This includes urging legislators to allow local stations to apply for forgivable loans as well as ensure the money the federal government is spending to advertise its programs is directed to local media. . . .
“We also are working with regulators, addressing areas of need for radio and TV stations; allowing you to focus on your role as first informers. I am pleased the FCC heard our concerns and announced multiple extensions of deadlines, clarifications and exceptions to policies. We won’t stop fighting for you and the relief you need to stay on the air.
“Our great industry has endured for 100 years because of the indispensable, irreplaceable role broadcasters play in every town and city across the nation. We will endure for at least 100 more, because you are the backbone of our country. You are truly what makes America great. And we are in this together.
“I am reminded of a quote by American poet Theodore Roethke: ‘In a dark time, the eye begins to see.’
“Though much remains uncertain, I can see this: America’s broadcasters will always be there for their communities to lead them out of darkness during times of crisis . . . to connect us to friends, family and community; to provide comfort and hope. This is true now and will be true when this crisis is over.
“I am grateful for your strength, courage and conviction that will help us get through this . . . I am thankful for the reminder your stations provide each day . . . that we are not alone.”
