Tony - I understand that you are doing way above what I can certainly do. I know I for one greatly appreciate all your efforts. As you stated, NABBI is not yet officially an organization!
I know from experience that in order to get any vendor to commit you need to display to them that you will have a minimum amount of attendees! In June there was under 50 attendees - that is hardly enough of a draw for any company to commit expenses to purchase a booth.
I recently helped organize this years annual
KaraokeFest held in Los Angeles. Attendees were well over 5,000 - we had around a dozen vendors that paid less than $300 for a booth.
Since this meeting/conference is more about getting the organization started it may be more difficult to get sponsorship/vendors. However, if anyone has suggestions I am certain that they will be considered.
Additionally as you have already advised - the first step is setting the location. Next get a confirmed attendee list.
Note there has been discussions about setting up a NABBI website with registration, event info, etc...
Again thank you Tony and everyone interested in assisting with the foundation of NABBI.