Case Study - Inspire Awards 2025

Client / Partner: 402 Events + Omaha World Herald 

Event Name: Inspire Awards 2025

Event Type: Annual Recognition Luncheon

Location: Baxter Arena, Omaha, Nebraska

Audience Size: 700 attendees

Event Summary:

Stratum Productions was approached by the 402 Events team to provide full technical support for the 2025 Inspire Awards. This annual luncheon celebrates and honors women making a significant impact in the Omaha community. The event required a polished, professional experience with seamless transitions, high visibility, and elevated storytelling moments for award recipients. This luncheon has seen growth over the past year and with the growth expansion to a new venue, they needed a partner who knew the space and how to best utilize it in alignment for their event goals.

Objectives & Requirements

402 Events required a technical partner who could deliver:

- A fully integrated audio, video, and lighting package suitable for a large arena.

- A seamless stage environment that felt both elegant and empowering.

- A curated technical team capable of tight cues, award-show pacing, and quick turnarounds.

- A stress-free, highly coordinated experience for their internal team.

Stratum's Approach

Discovery & Planning:

- Conducted pre-event site walk-through at Baxter Arena.

- Collaborated with 402 Events on program flow, show cues, and stage design.

- Developed a full technical plan covering audio, video, lighting, and staging.

Design & Pre-Production:

- Created a scenic layout that highlighted honorees while keeping run-of-show efficient.

- Prepared a complete equipment pull sheet and power distribution plan.

- Coordinated roles for Stratum crew and stagehands.

On-Site Execution:

- Managed full setup, rehearsal, and show operations.

- Facilitated FOH and stage management to ensure seamless cue execution.

- Delivered a polished final experience with rapid post-event load-out.

Technical Solution

Audio:

- Sound reinforcement for 700 attendees.

- Wireless microphones for presenters and honorees.

Video:

- Barco projection

- IMAG camera system with ISO and PGM record

- Playback for award videos and walk-up stingers.

Lighting:

- Stage wash for presenters and honorees.

- Accent and scenic lighting.

Staging:

- Modular stage deck.

- Podiums for seamless award and emcee stage direction.

Scenic & Atmosphere:

- Black drape line to frame the stage.

- Uplighting for scenic accents.

Event Impact & Stats

• 700+ attendees

• Single day set up + show

• 2-hour event window

• 12 Stratum crew and stagehands

• 100% on-time show execution

• Zero technical interruptions

Why It Matters

The Inspire Awards celebrates leadership and community impact. Stratum Productions was honored to elevate this event with a professional, elegant environment designed to highlight each award recipient’s story while supporting 402 Events’ vision.