Every Winter CSQ spotlights one of the region’s hotbeds of economic success and cultural acclaim – the tech space. Whether a startup on the Westside, an incubator in Pasadena, or an idea with global implications in the Arts District Downtown, Los Angeles is home to some of the world’s finest minds and wildest ideas, many of whom were on hand and honored at the event.
In recognition of his leadership at the head of a billion-dollar idea with potential for trillions of dollars in impact, CSQ honored cover feature Rob Lloyd as its primary honoree with a Visionary Award in Innovation & Technology.
In addition to Rob Lloyd, CSQ recognized three individuals whose determination to succeed and willingness to take chances paid off. Chuck Davis (CEO, Swagbucks), Jason Nazar (founder, Crew32), and Dana Settle (partner, Greycroft Ventures) were also honored as Visionaries in Innovation & Technology.
Also awarded was CSQ 2015 Disruptor of the Year – Thrive Market, whose honor was accepted by founder and co-CEO Gunnar Lovelace – and the 2016 NextGen 10, an annual feature profiling up-and-comers at notable companies. On hand to accept awards from the NextGen 10 were Cosmo Scharf (founder, Virtual Reality Los Angeles) and Max Aram (founder, Pick My Solar).
On top of the honorees, programming included introductions from CSQ partners and contributors Howard Marks (StartEngine) and Ben Kuo (socalTECH.com). Also on hand to introduce Rob Lloyd was Hyperloop Board Member Emily White.
Attendees included leadership from AECOM, Hyperloop Technologies, Inc., Clay Lacy Aviation, Bank of America Merrill Lynch, Majestic Realty, Hudson Capital, Defy Media, Avasant, Fox11, and more.
The evening was made possible thanks to the host, Hyperloop Technologies Inc., who graciously opened their doors to CSQ and our guests. The event’s supporting sponsors were Bank of America Merrill Lynch, Clay Lacy Aviation, Latham & Watkins LLP, Marathon Coach / Prevost, and Wells Fargo Private Bank. The patron sponsor was Ernst & Young.
Guests in attendance received a private tour of Hyperloop Technologies Inc.’s 2.5-acre campus, as well as signature Macallan scotch and Tequila Avión tastings and specialty cocktails, Hollywood Smoke cigars, an interactive Lensley Automatic photo booth, and much more. Additional brand partners of the evening included American Tea Room, Food Forward, socalTECH, Sugarfina, and Wilshire Media Systems. Entertainment was provided by DJ Richie Rich and hors d’oeuvres provided by Monrose Catering.