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I Want My Nerd HQ 2014

Nerd HQ, a free four day event in San Diego offering celebrity panels, exclusive gaming and tech experiences, while raising money for Operation Smile

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I Want My Nerd HQ 2014

I Want My Nerd HQ 2014

I Want My Nerd HQ 2014

I Want My Nerd HQ 2014

I Want My Nerd HQ 2014

Nerd HQ, a free four day event in San Diego offering celebrity panels, exclusive gaming and tech experiences, while raising money for Operation Smile

Nerd HQ, a free four day event in San Diego offering celebrity panels, exclusive gaming and tech experiences, while raising money for Operation Smile

Nerd HQ, a free four day event in San Diego offering celebrity panels, exclusive gaming and tech experiences, while raising money for Operation Smile

Nerd HQ, a free four day event in San Diego offering celebrity panels, exclusive gaming and tech experiences, while raising money for Operation Smile

Zachary Levi
Zachary Levi
Zachary Levi
Zachary Levi
1 Campaign |
San Diego, United States
$336,784 USD 16,378 backers
33% of $1,000,000 Flexible Goal Flexible Goal

What is Nerd HQ?

Here's how the campaign works.

The "I Want My Nerd HQ" Campaign is very simple. We need your support for Nerd HQ 2014. The funding strategy we have been using to produce Nerd HQ is no longer viable due to venue deadlines and the commitments required by the Nerd Machine to properly plan the event. We wish we could continue to subsidize the event ourselves, but we simply no longer can. We believe in our hearts that YOU will help to ensure Nerd HQ can continue to offer an amazing FREE experience for fans in San Diego, fans watching online, and all the children we are able to help through the funds you contribute during Nerd HQ for Operation Smile. To date, the Nerd Machine has raised over $415,000 dollars for the charity. 

You have a powerful voice and the Nerd Machine needs you to use that voice and let the world know you support this campaign, whether you can contribute or not.  We love and appreciate you either way. We believe that everyone is nerdy about something, so please tweet, post, reddit, and email to get the word out and help us produce the greatest Nerd HQ ever.

Please note that Nerd HQ is not affiliated with San Diego Comic Con International. Nerd HQ is planning to held at Petco Park at the same time as the convention. 

This part is very important. We want to make it very clear that the money you are contributing for Nerd HQ is not going to charityThe funds raised here will pay for the production of Nerd HQ in San Diego this July. 100% of the money raised by the "Conversations," auction items, photos, and signings will continue to be donated to Operation Smile. In 2013, Nerd HQ raised $215,000 for the charity.


Matt Smith, Zac Levi, and Richard Madden at Nerd HQ 2013

Production costs include venue, staging, production crew, event lighting, video, audio, staff, security, and activations. These costs are very expensive and every dollar you donate will make a difference. It is up to YOU, to help us make HQ happen. We will continue the search for sponsors in order to make the event the most amazing HQ ever and bring you, the fans, the most dynamic "Conversations" and the newest in gaming and technology. Not to mention the most epic nights Nerd HQ has ever seen.

Nerd HQ, the best perk we can offer.

We understand that a lack of a perk structure is a rarity, if not a brand new concept, for a crowd funding campaign. However, we believe, and hope you do too, that Nerd HQ itself is the best reward we can offer. Nerd HQ brings you twenty-five plus hours of "Conversation for a Cause" content, live-streamed to everyone, FOR FREE, no matter where you are in the world (some restrictions may apply based on country.) The physical event in San Diego is COMPLETELY FREE for everyone to enter and enjoy. AND, we throw the most epic dance parties for both fans and celebs, again, TOTALLY FREE. In fact, the only things that cost you money at Nerd HQ, aside from all the charitable activations, is Nerd Machine merchandise and the food & beverage that you may buy while enjoying the festivities.

On top of that, perks cost a great deal of money, time, and labor to produce and fulfill. If we offer perks like tee shirts, posters, or even special access at Nerd HQ, then we have to ask for even more funding from you to cover those costs. No physical perks means we can put all the money raised toward making the best Nerd HQ to date, and bringing it to you FOR...wait for it…FREE!

What we CAN offer you is your NAME on the "Nerd HQ Wall of Honor," that will be on display at Petco Park. This wall will be used to commemorate your victory of making HQ a reality. Each and every contributor will have their name printed on this wall. We will also place your names on the Nerd HQ contributors page at thenerdmachine.com for everyone to see. No hierarchy, nothing based on your contribution. If you give $5, your name could be next to someone who gives $500. We are all in this together.

Most importantly, for your contribution, you will receive our eternal gratitude, loyalty and our pledge to bring you the best Nerd HQ ever! 


Fans enjoying the day at Nerd HQ 2013

For those who have experienced our event, you know how amazing Nerd HQ is. For those of you that have not, we simply ask that you go to our YouTube page and watch a few "Conversations." We believe these amazingly unique and inspiring panels will give you all the reason you need to support our cause. 

Here are a few examples…

Highlights of the Tom Hiddleston Conversation at Nerd HQ

Highlights of the "DOCTOR WHO" Conversation at Nerd HQ 2013

Why is Nerd HQ important?

The Nerd Machine's Nerd HQ is important to us because we know it is important to YOU. It is an event for YOU, by YOU. Fans make Nerd HQ what it is and they always will, this year more than any other. YOU are the heart and soul of everything we do. Since 2011, we have done everything we could to provide the most amazing and unique fan experience outside of the convention center. Attendees always say that Nerd HQ is one of their best memories ever and we want to create more of those memories with you. There are so many opportunities to meet new friends, connect with old ones, and have a personal interaction with the biggest celebrities in Hollywood. Fans around the world get the chance to watch amazing panels online that are only available from Nerd HQ. Hundreds of thousands of dollars are raised for the charity we support, Operation Smile. Fans worldwide are able to experience Nerd HQ through tweets and posts by Zac and the Nerd Machine as well as the thousands of fans and celebs in attendance. All of this ONLY continues with YOUR SUPPORT!

Party time at Nerd HQ

Gaming at Nerd HQ

Highlights from Nerd HQ 2013

Nerd HQ 2013 showcased cutting edge technology and gaming demos, exclusive parties, autograph signings, photo opportunities with celebrities, and the very popular “Conversations for a Cause” panel series, which to date has helped raise over $415K for Operation Smile.


Fans and celebs in the Nerd HQ Photo Booth

Panels consisted of the most talked about films and television shows including “Sherlock,” “Hannibal,” “Orphan Black,” “Doctor Who,” “Robot Chicken,” “300: Rise of An Empire,” “Kick-Ass 2,” “The Maze Runner,” “Riddick,” and “Supernatural,” to name just a few. Each panel is packed with curious and excited fans asking meaningful questions, anxious to learn more about their favorite films and shows. 

Shots from the "Conversations" at Nerd HQ 2013



Dylan O'Brien during "The Maze Runner" Conversation at Nerd HQ 2013

Nerd HQ 2013 highlights also included Tom Hiddleston’s impression of a velociraptor, “Doctor Who” actor Matt Smith and Jenna Coleman jumping on stage to surprise “Game of Thrones” star Richard Madden during his panel, and Stan Lee dropping by to take photos with fans at one of our awesome photo booths. The excitement continued with Nerd HQ’s energetic and fun-filled after-parties for fans and celebrities alike. A Thursday Night Fan Party gave everyone the opportunity to mingle, play games, and dance the night away with all of the nerds in town, all for FREE. The festivities continued on Friday, when Nerd HQ hosted the hottest party of the weekend: The NERD Party. Saturday night included the amazing screening of "SERENITY" on the field of Petco Park. 

"SERENITY" screening at Nerd HQ 2013

Can't contribute but still want to help? Here's how...

We believe the power YOU hold isn't just in your wallets, but in your voice as well. YOU have the ability to make this happen by sharing our collective mission. 

  • Share the campaign url, http://www.IWantMyNerdHQ.com
  • Tweet your support on Twitter, post your support on Facebook, use Instagram, Google Plus, Reddit, Carrier pigeon, and/or Pony Express and then call your grandparents to let them know we need their help too. 
  • Follow @zacharylevi and @thenerdmachine for updates.
  • Always use the #IWantMyNerdHQ hashtag in your tweets to create awareness and to generate buzz around the campaign.
  • Tell your friends and find others who want to get involved and join the cause. 
  • Get the twibbon for your social media avatars to show your support for the "I Want My Nerd HQ" campaign at http://twb.ly/1gd4DvF
  • Use all the sharing options Indiegogo has to offer. Let's make history together. 

About Zac Levi and the Nerd Machine

Zachary Levi-Founder of the Nerd Machine and Nerd HQ

Zachary Levi is best known for the title role on NBC’s hit show “Chuck.”  He portrayed a regular guy whose life gets scrambled when government secrets are inadvertently downloaded into his brain while reading an email sent from a long lost friend. "Chuck" has been a media and fan favorite since its fall 2007 release and continues its worldwide popularity even after the series finale. 

Zachary Levi as Chuck

Fans were thrilled to see Levi in the 2013 follow-up to Marvel's previous hit “Thor.”  Levi steps into the role of “Fandral the Dashing” in fan favorite “Thor: The Dark World.” 

Zac as Fandral in Thor:The Dark World

Zac is also the founder of the Nerd Machine and the creator of Nerd HQ. Zac's goal was to create the most amazing fan/celebrity interaction ever at an event. He believes that YOU want a forum to speak directly to your favorite artists and be able to have an unique and intimate connection like none you have ever experienced. That goal has been reached and then surpassed. Nerd HQ is now the most popular event outside the convention center and that is all because of YOU.


The Nerd Machine is spearheading a "mission of redefinition" that changes the global perception of what a NERD is, and thereby allowing everyone to celebrate the NERD in themselves. The question is: What are you nerdy about?


Supporting Nerd HQ helps support Operation Smile.

The Nerd Machine's Nerd HQ is a global experience. Not only because of the content created during the event, but the lives we are able to change around the world with the funds raised at Nerd HQ each year.

Zac has been an ambassador for Operation Smile for several years and he has seen first hand what a difference they make in lives all over the world. With the help of amazing people like YOU, he and the Nerd Machine have raised over $415,000 for the charity. That is almost 1,700 lives that have been changed forever by your support of Zac, Nerd HQ, and the Nerd Machine. 

Again, we want to make it very clear that the money you are contributing for Nerd HQ is not going to charity. The funds raised here will pay for the production of Nerd HQ in San Diego this July. As always, One Hundred Percent (100%) of the money raised by panels, auction items, photos, and signings will continue to be donated to Operation Smile. 

Joss Whedon, Zachary Levi, and Nathan Fillion at Nerd HQ 2013


The charity we love and support, 

Operation Smile

Go to www.OperationSmile.org for more info about Operation Smile


Help us Obi Wan Kenobi(s), you're our only hope…

(Disclaimer: Nerd HQ is not affiliated with San Diego Comic Con International. The event is scheduled to be held at the same time as SDCC at Petco Park in San Diego.)


Frequently Asked Questions

1.  What, when, and where is Nerd HQ?

Nerd HQ is a FREE, four day event held the same weekend as San Diego Comic Con and offers exclusive gaming and tech activations, nightly events, and intimate celebrity panels benefiting Operation Smile. The event is scheduled to be held July 24-27, 2014 at Petco Park in San Diego, California.

2.  Do I get anything for my contribution?

All contributors will be part of the #NerdHQArmy, an exclusive email list that will receive updates, photos, videos and much more throughout our event planning process that can't be found anywhere else. Your name will also be placed on our "Nerd HQ Wall of Honor" at the event and on our contributor page on www.thenerdmachine.com. But most importantly, for your contribution, you will receive our eternal gratitude, loyalty and our pledge to bring you the best Nerd HQ ever!

Furthermore, Nerd HQ brings you twenty-five plus hours of "Conversation for a Cause" content, live-streamed to everyone, FOR FREE, no matter where you are in the world (some restrictions may apply based on country.)

Go to www.youtube.com/nerdmachinetv for examples of our “Conversations.”

3.  What will the funds raised by the Indiegogo campaign go towards at Nerd HQ?

Every dollar you give will go towards the production of the event. The venue fees, staging, audio, video, production crew, event lighting, staff, security, and activations are very expensive and every dollar you donate will make a difference. It is up to YOU to help us make HQ happen.

4.  Does this money directly support Operation Smile?

The contribution you are making here does not go to Operation Smile. It enables Zac and the Nerd Machine to produce Nerd HQ and continue to raise money for Operation Smile. Each year, we raise more money for the charity, and with your help, we know that we can do so for years to come.

5.  Why should I participate if I’m not going to attend Nerd HQ?

Great Question. Nerd HQ offers twenty-five plus hours of "Conversation for a Cause" content, live-streamed to everyone, FOR FREE, no matter where you are in the world (some restrictions may apply based on country.)

Plus, all contributors will be part of the #NerdHQArmy, an exclusive email list that will receive updates, photos, videos and much more throughout our event planning process that can't be found anywhere else. Your name will also be placed on our "Nerd HQ Wall of Honor" at the event and on our contributor page on www.thenerdmachine.com But most importantly, for your contribution, you will receive our eternal gratitude, loyalty and our pledge to bring you the best Nerd HQ ever!

6.  Will I be able to participate in the campaign if I live outside of the United States?

Yes! Indiegogo allows people from all over the world to contribute by using a credit card or Paypal. If you participate, you will also receive all the contributor benefits as a member of the Nerd HQ Army.

7.  If I donate to Nerd HQ can I meet Zachary Levi in person? What if I want an autograph picture or a photo?

If you come to Nerd HQ, there is a great chance you will be able to meet Zac. Nerd HQ offers many opportunities to interact with him, such as the “Smiles for Smiles” and “Signings for Smiles” activations benefiting Operation Smile.

8.  What happens to my money if you don’t reach your goal?

We believe with your help, the “I Want My Nerd HQ” campaign will be a success and reach the goal of $1,000,000 dollars. In the unlikely event we do not reach our goal, Zac and the Nerd Machine will evaluate if the event can still be produced with the money contributed, supplemented by sponsor participation. If the event moves forward, your contributions will be used to create the greatest Nerd HQ ever. If the funds raised are insufficient to produce Nerd HQ, your money will be refunded minus the Indiegogo and Paypal fees.

9.  I don’t have any money right now, how long do I have to contribute?

Thanks for checking out the page. The campaign will run for 45 days, until April 24, 2014. In the event that you can not give, please share the campaign with everyone you know so that your voice is still heard.

10.  Is my donation tax deductible?

Your donation is not tax deductible. We want to reiterate that this is not a charitable donation, but a contribution to help produce Nerd HQ. We are not a charity, but 100% of the panel fees, auction items, photos, signings, and screenings at Nerd HQ benefit Operation Smile.

11.  Don't most campaigns offer perks for a contribution?

Usually, yes. But as Zac says in the video, Nerd HQ is the best perk we can offer. It's an amazing, free event that fans all over the world can enjoy. The "Conversations" are streamed live worldwide, for free. The event is open to everyone, for free. The gaming and tech activations are free. And by funding Nerd HQ you enable Zac and the Nerd Machine to continue their support of Operation Smile. Also, perks like tee shirts, posters, and special access to Nerd HQ cost time, money, and labor to fulfill. Our goal would have to be several hundred thousand dollars higher to provide these items and that would take away time and resources from planning the greatest Nerd HQ ever. 


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Choose your Perk

Member of the Nerd HQ Army

$5 USD
All contributors will be part of the #NerdHQArmy, an exclusive email list that will receive updates, photos, videos and much more throughout our event planning process that can't be found anywhere else. Your name will also be placed on our "Nerd HQ Wall of Honor" at the event and on our contributor page on www.thenerdmachine.com. But most importantly, for your contribution, you will receive our eternal gratitude, loyalty and our pledge to bring you the best NerdHQ ever!
Estimated Shipping
July 2014
5391 out of 200000 of claimed

Member of the Nerd HQ Army

$10 USD
All contributors will be part of the #NerdHQArmy, an exclusive email list that will receive updates, photos, videos and much more throughout our event planning process that can't be found anywhere else. Your name will also be placed on our "Nerd HQ Wall of Honor" at the event and on our contributor page on www.thenerdmachine.com. But most importantly, for your contribution, you will receive our eternal gratitude, loyalty and our pledge to bring you the best NerdHQ ever!
Estimated Shipping
July 2014
4502 out of 100000 of claimed

Member of the Nerd HQ Army

$25 USD
All contributors will be part of the #NerdHQArmy, an exclusive email list that will receive updates, photos, videos and much more throughout our event planning process that can't be found anywhere else. Your name will also be placed on our "Nerd HQ Wall of Honor" at the event and on our contributor page on www.thenerdmachine.com. But most importantly, for your contribution, you will receive our eternal gratitude, loyalty and our pledge to bring you the best NerdHQ ever!
Estimated Shipping
July 2014
2638 out of 50000 of claimed

Member of the Nerd HQ Army

$50 USD
All contributors will be part of the #NerdHQArmy, an exclusive email list that will receive updates, photos, videos and much more throughout our event planning process that can't be found anywhere else. Your name will also be placed on our "Nerd HQ Wall of Honor" at the event and on our contributor page on www.thenerdmachine.com. But most importantly, for your contribution, you will receive our eternal gratitude, loyalty and our pledge to bring you the best NerdHQ ever!
Estimated Shipping
July 2014
797 out of 50000 of claimed

Member of the Nerd HQ Army

$75 USD
All contributors will be part of the #NerdHQArmy, an exclusive email list that will receive updates, photos, videos and much more throughout our event planning process that can't be found anywhere else. Your name will also be placed on our "Nerd HQ Wall of Honor" at the event and on our contributor page on www.thenerdmachine.com. But most importantly, for your contribution, you will receive our eternal gratitude, loyalty and our pledge to bring you the best NerdHQ ever!
Estimated Shipping
July 2014
97 out of 50000 of claimed

Member of the Nerd HQ Army

$100 USD
All contributors will be part of the #NerdHQArmy, an exclusive email list that will receive updates, photos, videos and much more throughout our event planning process that can't be found anywhere else. Your name will also be placed on our "Nerd HQ Wall of Honor" at the event and on our contributor page on www.thenerdmachine.com. But most importantly, for your contribution, you will receive our eternal gratitude, loyalty and our pledge to bring you the best NerdHQ ever!
Estimated Shipping
July 2014
489 out of 20000 of claimed

Member of the Nerd HQ Army

$250 USD
All contributors will be part of the #NerdHQArmy, an exclusive email list that will receive updates, photos, videos and much more throughout our event planning process that can't be found anywhere else. Your name will also be placed on our "Nerd HQ Wall of Honor" at the event and on our contributor page on www.thenerdmachine.com. But most importantly, for your contribution, you will receive our eternal gratitude, loyalty and our pledge to bring you the best NerdHQ ever!
Estimated Shipping
July 2014
58 out of 25000 of claimed

Member of the Nerd HQ Army

$500 USD
All contributors will be part of the #NerdHQArmy, an exclusive email list that will receive updates, photos, videos and much more throughout our event planning process that can't be found anywhere else. Your name will also be placed on our "Nerd HQ Wall of Honor" at the event and on our contributor page on www.thenerdmachine.com. But most importantly, for your contribution, you will receive our eternal gratitude, loyalty and our pledge to bring you the best NerdHQ ever!
Estimated Shipping
July 2014
15 out of 2000 of claimed

Member of the Nerd HQ Army

$1,000 USD
All contributors will be part of the #NerdHQArmy, an exclusive email list that will receive updates, photos, videos and much more throughout our event planning process that can't be found anywhere else. Your name will also be placed on our "Nerd HQ Wall of Honor" at the event and on our contributor page on www.thenerdmachine.com. But most importantly, for your contribution, you will receive our eternal gratitude, loyalty and our pledge to bring you the best NerdHQ ever!
Estimated Shipping
July 2014
16 out of 1000 of claimed

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