What does it take to turn a bold idea into a community institution – and see it thrive for a decade?
For Anand Pallegar, founder of DreamLarge, it started with a vision: a space where curiosity could flourish, creativity could soar and perspectives could be challenged. That vision took shape as PINC – a daylong conference of People, Ideas, Nature and Community – that started in the Netherlands and moved across the Atlantic to Sarasota in 2014.
Pallegar believed there was an opportunity to create something new in the community that could bridge ages, interests and issues in a creative and engaging way, so he and his team took the gamble and PINC Sarasota premiered to a sold-out audience in the Florida Studio Theater. . The first PINC conference was a catalyst for the region, sparking a decade of transformative conversations and community impact.
Described as a “bubble bath for your brain,” PINC has become one of Sarasota’s most anticipated events, blending global perspectives with the city’s unique cultural fabric. It is a celebration of knowledge, community and the power of big ideas to inspire action.
As the conference celebrates its 10th anniversary Thursday at the old Sarasota Opera House venue, Pallegar and the DreamLarge team pull back the curtain to reflect on the challenges, triumphs and bold vision that have shaped PINC into a beacon of creativity and philanthropy in Sarasota. .
A decade of creative philanthropyThe driving force behind PINC, the founder of DreamLarge, looks back on the conference’s journey with pride and humility as his team gears up for the event this weekend.
“When we first brought PINC to Sarasota, the community took a chance on this magical venture,” Pallegar said. “It has grown into a wonderful day full of creativity and imagination, connecting our city with the world and leaving lasting inspiration.”
At its core, PINC reflects Sarasota’s values of art, sustainability and philanthropy. Over the years it has presented diverse speakers whose stories push boundaries and inspire action. From globally renowned thought leaders to unique local voices, each speaker embodies the event’s mission: to spark curiosity, challenge norms and foster a sense of community.
What you can expect this yearThe 10th anniversary event will feature an eclectic lineup of speakers, interactive experiences and, as always, a few surprises. Expect sessions that touch on everything from innovation to giving back, with opportunities to think about how creativity drives meaningful change. A lineup of ten speakers from around the world will take the stage at the Sarasota Opera House to discuss everything from adoption to hurricane research to the civil rights of indigenous peoples.
This year’s theme focuses on connecting participants to their “why” in philanthropy, encouraging them to think courageously about their role in shaping the future. As Pallegar puts it, “PINC combines inspiration with action and helps participants turn transformative ideas into tangible impact.”
This year’s conference is highlighted by the addition of the PINC Ideas Dinner, an outdoor multi-course dinner and discussion in Overtown Square Park.
The now multi-day event, which includes the PINC Ideas Dinner Friday, sells out every year at the Sarasota Opera House with hundreds of attendees, volunteers and community supporters involved.
“PINC wouldn’t be possible without the incredible support of our community. From the organizations and volunteers who supported our vision from Day 1 and continue to do so year after year, to the hardworking students and faculty at Ringling College Design Center who create new ideas PINC is visually a team effort every year. Local creatives help bring the stage to life, volunteers go above and beyond… It’s a testament to the power of collaboration and the belief that bold ideas can change the world,” said Pallegar. .
PINC is supported by local philanthropic organizations and community partners, including the Gulf Coast Community Foundation, Charles & Margery Barancik Foundation and the Ringling College of Art & Design.
A platform for daring thinkersOver the past decade, PINC has hosted an eclectic range of speakers from around the world, all sharing insights that resonate far beyond the stage. Previous speakers have included biohacker and entrepreneur Dave Asprey, inventor and magician Marco Tempest and environmental scientist Jennifer Jacquet. These thought leaders represent a broad spectrum of fields – from cutting-edge technology and neuroscience to the arts and global sustainability – giving attendees a rare glimpse into breakthrough ideas and creative problem-solving.
Looking aheadAs PINC celebrates this milestone, DreamLarge is already setting its sights on the next decade. Pallegar plans to expand the conference’s impact beyond Sarasota while continuing to nurture its roots in the city that embraced the conference from its inception.
“We hope to continue this relationship for years to come. Looking ahead, we aim to expand that magic – making it the most transformative day not only in Sarasota, but across Florida, the U.S. and beyond,” said Pallegar.
For more information about PINC, to purchase tickets or to connect with the DreamLarge team, visit https://www.pincexperience.com/
Samantha Gholar covers social justice for USA Today Network-Florida. Contact her via email at sgholar@gannett.com.
This article originally appeared on the Sarasota Herald-Tribune: PINC Conference returns for its 10th year in Sarasota on December 6
