BIPOC Outdoors Summit and Rest Retreat @ NMU Sponsorship Packet
 Celebrating Belonging in Nature | July 27, 2026 - July 31, 2026 | Marquette, Michigan

About the BIPOC Outdoors Summit and Rest Retreat @ NMU 

The BIPOC Outdoors Summit @ NMU  is a dynamic, multi-day event centered on connecting Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) and their allies to the outdoors through healing, adventure, leadership, cultural connection, and environmental justice. Taking place in the breathtaking landscapes of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, this summit brings together outdoor enthusiasts, educators, industry professionals, and community leaders to celebrate and expand the presence and voices of BIPOC communities in nature-based spaces. The summit includes a two day symposium followed by a three day retreat. 

BIPOC Outdoors Summit @ NMU Overview: 

This summit aims to bring together BIPOC and allies from Michigan, the Midwest and beyond to collectively share best practices in facilitating BIPOC-centered spaces in outdoor recreation, environmental justice and conservation movements. Attendees will have the opportunity to hear from keynote speakers, panelists and each other about best practices in grassroots movements that are helping to strengthen the relationship of BIPOC communities and Nature.

Rest Retreat Overview:

This rest retreat is for communities who are underrepresented in environmental justice professionals and community leader fields and are at risk of burnout from combating racial and climate injustice. This three day retreat will offer a selection of several optional low-medium intensity activities for attendees to choose from each day. Together, attendees will spend time connecting with the outdoors, themselves and each other. 


Expected Summit Attendance: 150 BIPOC participants and allies
Host Organization: Northern Michigan University
Summit Theme: “Celebrating Belonging in Nature”

Our Mission

To create a safe, inclusive, and empowering space where BIPOC individuals and their allies can connect with nature, each other, and opportunities in the outdoor and environmental sectors.

Goals of the Summit

  • Increase representation of BIPOC individuals and allies in outdoor and environmental fields.
  • Amplify BIPOC-led organizations and storytellers working in outdoor recreation, conservation, and wellness.
  • Cultivate healing and community through guided outdoor experiences rooted in ancestral traditions.
  • Foster cross-sector partnerships that advance opportunity, empowerment, access, and belonging in outdoor spaces.

Event Features

  • Keynote speakers & storytellers from national BIPOC outdoor leadership
  • Guided outdoor experiences (hiking, paddling, foraging, etc.)
  • Workshops on skill building, land justice, ancestral practices, and outdoor career pathways
  • Wellness circles, cultural rituals, and healing arts
  • Networking with BIPOC environmental professionals
  • Vendor fair featuring BIPOC artisans, organizations, and companies

Why Sponsor?

By sponsoring the BIPOC Outdoor Summit, your organization will:

  • Demonstrate your commitment to empowerment, outdoor access, and environmental justice
  • Build authentic relationships with BIPOC changemakers and allies, creatives, and leaders
  • Receive visibility through diverse media, event branding, and storytelling platforms
  • Help remove cost barriers and ensure accessibility for youth, elders, and grassroots leaders

Sponsorship Opportunities

1. Summit Title Sponsor – $10,000

  • Naming rights: “BIPOC Outdoor Summit presented by [Your Company]”
  • Logo on all materials and mainstage banner
  • Opening remarks opportunity
  • Feature in press releases and social media campaigns
  • 10 complimentary summit passes
  • Dedicated vendor booth and promo table

2. Healing & Wellness Sponsor – $5,000

  • Naming rights to wellness zone or healing experiences
  • Logo on wellness session signage and materials
  • Recognition during opening and closing circles
  • 6 complimentary summit passes
  • Promo table and inclusion in digital program

3. Outdoor Experience Sponsor – $2,500

  • Naming rights to a hike, paddle, or wilderness session
  • Logo on experience gear, signage, and maps
  • 4 complimentary summit passes
  • Opportunity to co-host or speak during an outdoor session
  • Promotional content shared during registration

4. Community Ally Sponsor – $1,750

  • Name/logo on summit website and printed program
  • 2 complimentary summit passes
  • Social media shoutout and acknowledgment

5. BIPOC Youth Scholarship Sponsor – $750

  • Sponsor 10 youth or student attendees
  • Recognition in program and website
  • 2 complimentary summit passes
  • Custom thank-you video or testimonial from youth participants

6. In-Kind & Custom Sponsorships

  • We welcome in-kind contributions such as gear, wellness products, food, lodging, camping equipment, transportation, or media support. Custom sponsorships can also be created to align with your brand and values.