The Silent Engine: A 40-Year Partnership Powering SF's Event Economy

SAN FRANCISCO, CA – July 16, 2026 – In the bustling heart of a global technology hub, where innovation is a daily currency, some of the most critical infrastructure is designed to be invisible. For the millions of people who flood into San Francisco’s Moscone Center each year for events like Salesforce’s Dreamforce or the upcoming Pokémon World Championships, the seamless audio, crisp video walls, and flawless connectivity are simply expected. Behind this massive, yet often unnoticed, technical orchestration is a partnership that has quietly shaped the city’s economic landscape for four decades. The recent renewal of the audio-visual services agreement between Projection and the Moscone Center is more than a standard business transaction; it’s the reaffirmation of a foundational alliance that fuels a significant portion of the city's tourism and commerce.

A Partnership Forged in Decades, Not Years

In an industry defined by rapid technological turnover, a 40-year relationship is a monumental achievement. The collaboration dates back to 1984, with Projection formally becoming the in-house AV provider in 1994 after acquiring its predecessor, Photo and Sound. This makes the Moscone Center the first major convention center in Projection’s extensive portfolio, a cornerstone upon which both organizations have built their reputations.

This longevity provides a level of stability and institutional knowledge that is rare in the fast-paced events world. It means the AV team understands the venue’s every quirk, from its unique acoustics to its complex rigging points across more than 1.1 million square feet of space. This deep-seated familiarity allows for a level of service that goes beyond simple equipment rental. As Leonie Patrick, the Moscone Center’s General Manager, noted, this history is one of proven excellence. “Over the past 40 years, Projection has continually delivered an extraordinary level of products and services, including an outstanding level of personal service,” Patrick said. “They have shown the ability to work collaboratively with our staff and clients by producing world-class results and earning an extraordinary degree of client loyalty. We are thrilled to continue the partnership.” This sentiment underscores that the renewal isn't just about maintaining the status quo, but about building on a proven track record of world-class execution.

The Economic Bedrock of a Global Destination

The economic stakes of this partnership are immense. The Moscone Center is not just a building; it's an economic engine responsible for a staggering 21% of San Francisco's entire travel and tourism industry. The events it hosts, drawing over a million attendees annually, create a ripple effect that supports hotels, restaurants, transportation, and countless local businesses. The ability to attract and retain premier global events hinges on the promise of a flawless experience, and technology is at the heart of that promise.

When organizations like AMD, TechCrunch, or CoreWeave choose the Moscone Center for their flagship events in 2026, they are betting on an infrastructure that can support their high-tech demands. A glitchy microphone, a lagging video feed, or a poorly lit stage can tarnish a brand's image and sour an attendee's experience. Projection’s role as the preferred in-house provider mitigates these risks, offering a turnkey solution that ensures quality and consistency. This reliability is a critical selling point for the Moscone Center, allowing it to compete for and win the business of the world's most demanding clients. The economic vitality generated by these events, therefore, is directly supported by the operational excellence guaranteed by this long-standing AV partnership.

More Than Screens: The 'Projection Difference' in a Competitive Market

In a competitive landscape populated by providers like APAV in Chicago and Pure AV in Las Vegas, simply having equipment is not enough. Projection's sustained success with the Moscone Center is rooted in what the company calls 'The Projection Difference.' According to Larry Taylor, Corporate Vice President of the In-House Division at Projection, it's about a “shared commitment to service, excellence, innovation, and delivering exceptional event experiences.”

In practical terms, this translates to a comprehensive, integrated service model. Projection manages everything from initial CAD floor plans and rigging plots to providing specialized IATSE Local 16 union labor, a crucial and complex aspect of operating in San Francisco. They are the exclusive operator of the venue's integrated house audio system, ensuring seamless sound across all levels. This deep integration contrasts sharply with the à la carte model seen at other venues, where event planners might have to juggle multiple outside vendors. This all-in-one approach streamlines the planning process and reduces points of failure, allowing clients to focus on their content rather than technical logistics.

Furthermore, the partnership is not technologically stagnant. To keep a premier venue like Moscone at the forefront, Projection must constantly innovate. This means moving beyond standard projectors and screens to embrace the industry's evolution towards immersive displays, interactive touchscreens, and massive LED walls. The future of events also includes sophisticated hybrid solutions for virtual audiences and the potential integration of AI for optimizing event setups—all areas where a forward-thinking AV partner is essential for a venue to remain competitive.

Building a Sustainable, High-Tech Future

The renewed agreement also aligns with the evolving priorities of the events industry, where sustainability has become as important as technology. The Moscone Center is a leader in this domain, having achieved the highest LEED Platinum certification for its entire campus—a distinction that makes it one of the most sustainable convention centers in the world. This green credential is a major draw for environmentally conscious organizations.

Projection's role extends into supporting this mission. Modern AV technology, such as energy-efficient LED lighting and advanced digital signage that replaces printed materials, contributes directly to reducing an event's carbon footprint. By providing state-of-the-art, efficient equipment, the AV provider becomes a key partner in upholding the venue's sustainability promises. This synergy between cutting-edge technology and environmental stewardship is precisely what the next generation of global conventions demands. Together, Projection and the Moscone Center are not just continuing a legacy; they are actively building a future where world-class events are both technologically spectacular and sustainably produced, ensuring San Francisco remains a top-tier destination for decades to come.