Grassroots Annual Awards

Monday June 9th, 2025: 
2025 Grassroots Annual Awards
Lunch Hour, RSCC, Ballroom C

Always an exciting and fun program, you won't want to miss the highly anticipated Grassroots Annual Awards! Join us over lunch on day one to recognize the outstanding achievements of retailers, brands, and individuals within our vibrant Grassroots community. We will shine the spotlight on those who have showcased unparalleled excellence in service, collaboration, support, and product innovation for independent specialty businesses. Don't miss out on this opportunity to applaud and celebrate the good work of your peers!

Featured Speaker

Tuesday June 10th, 2025:
Breakfast Presentation by Conrad Anker
7am-8am, RSCC, Ballroom C

Four Decades of Adventure: Our Life in the Outdoor Industry

Join legendary alpinist and The North Face Captain Emeritus, Conrad Anker, for a compelling journey through 40 years of transformation in the outdoor industry. From humble beginnings to global influence, Conrad reflects on how gear, values, and culture have evolved—and how the power of the outdoors remains constant.

1980s – Foundations of an Industry
1990s – Growth and Expansion
2000s – Tech Revolution & Globalization 2010s–Present – Purpose & Inclusion

Through it all, one purpose endures: connecting people with the transformative power of outdoor experiences.
Sponsored by The North Face

Morning activities

LUncheon Sessions

Tuesday June 10th, 2025:
Grassroots Vendor Partner Meeting
Presented by Gabe Maier, Grassroots President

Exclusively for Grassroots Vendor Partners, this session offers a unique chance to explore our organizational direction and strategic plans. Dive into a comprehensive overview of specialty business insights, key Grassroots initiatives, and forecasts for the upcoming year. We kindly request that each Vendor Partner sends at least ONE leadership representative to ensure a thorough understanding of your Grassroots membership value and our collective direction.

Tuesday June 10th, 2025:
Women’s Luncheon
Presented by Tara Kuipers, TK Consulting

IMPERFECTIONISM: The Power of Leaders Who Embrace Limitations

When was the last time you acknowledged that “good enough” truly was… enough? In a world of polished personas, the most celebrated, effective, and sane leaders challenge the myth of perfectionism and embrace the reality of their limitations. Join us as we explore how this approach creates more resilient leaders, innovative teams, and safer relationships. We will leave with a renewed sense that progress truly is better than perfection!