Corporate sponsors for conference attendees; Wayne Hurlbert offers great idea
My friend Wayne Hurlbert, veteran business blogger and SEO consultant, were on Twitter regarding corporate sponsorship for conference attendees.
The idea grew out of my expressing desire to attend the upcoming MarketingProfs Digital Mixer in October in Phoenix. He piped up and suggested corporate sponsorship as a means by which that could be facilitated. Of course, since I work full-time for a company they might frown on me going as an ambassador for another, but his point still holds.
There are many, many solo entrepreneurs and small business people who want and need to attend such events, but don't have the deep pockets required to cover registration fees, travel, lodging, meals and other expenses.
I remember well as an independent consultant a few years ago how expensive it was to travel to these things, knowing they would be good for business, but wondering where the money would come from to fund the trip.
Needless to say, his idea came as a welcome suggestion to me, and I'm sure it will ring true in the ears of many others as well.
Wayne jotted down his thoughts via his blog raising a number of valid points. (Rather than me cite them, read his post.) He did mention the PR value and brand evangelism such sponsorship would engender. Again, read the post to get the full effect.
If your company might consider this to be a good idea and are looking for good candidates, I know a number of people who could use and who would appreciate this kind of help. They are professionals with business savvy and common sense who would represent your company well.
I agree with Wayne...it's a win-win for all concerned.
