Forums: Discussions for entrepreneurs and small business.

I`d like to know your opinions, your thoughts, recommendations, etc. on this...

I`m listing my "tentative" event and information in hopes to get some feedback from the Startup Nation Community. I realize some of you may not be familiar with the military niche, but you`re all Entrepreneurial minded, so I know you can definitely relate. So without further delay:

For those who don`t already know, I`m currently serving on active duty in the US Marine Corps(11yrs). After 11yrs, I have decided to leave the Marine Corps in September. I`ve always wanted to get other Entrepreneurial minds like me together just to talk, network, etc.

Recently, I attended a 2 week course called the Transition Assistance Program, which helps military service members, that are leaving the military, prepare for the civilian workforce. They spend A LOT of time on resume writing, interviewing process, the do`s/don`ts, etc.

BASICALLY EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT GETTING A JOB... WORKING FOR SOMEONE ELSE... BLAH BLAH BLAH.

NOTHING for those who want/plan to start a business/work for themselves. When I asked if they offer this information the answer was:

"I`m sorry sir. This program is solely to prepare you for the private sector workforce or federal employment. If you want information on starting a business go to www.SCORE.org or contact the SBA, they will be able to help you."

I thought to myself... UN-FREAKIN-BELIEVABLE! 

MY LIGHT BULB MOMENT:  After that, I was unble able to focus on the class. I was too busy writing notes, jotting down schedules, possible guests, etc. for an idea that I am going to call "The Military Entrepreneur Conference."

I`m considering soliciting for sponsors to cover the majority of my costs. A few other things I`m considering:

1. 2 day event... Friday and Saturday from 8am-3/4pm.

2. On second night have a "Mixer" night from 6/7pm-9/10pm: Casual Networking Event

3. Have 2-3 Guest/Keynote Speakers: Speakers will have military background to directly relate to attendees. Cosidering contacting Phil Town and CEO of CWA Media.  Let`s see.. who else?

4. Schedule 3-4 Mini-Seminars as part of the event. 2 will go simultaneously each day and attendees can choose to sign-up or not.  For example, a class on preparing a business plan or asset protection or incorporating a business 101, etc..

5. Invite Organizations such as SCORE, SBA, Veterans Administration and other organizations to speak and explain benefits, opportunities, programs, etc. to attendees.

6. Special Event: Elevator Pitch Competition... 3-4 participants(pre-registered) will have 2-3 minutes to pitch their business idea/service/product to attendees and the winner will receive a cash prize. I`m hoping between 1K-10K. That would depend on sponsors I can get.

7. I will also contact certain military friendly/supporter businesses/franchisors to offer deep discounts or promotional packages for attendees. In return, they will be mentioned on marketing material, handouts that will be given to all attendees,etc.

8. I plan to have 8-10 vendor booths available for vendors interested and charge a fee for them.

Well, that`s my idea for the conference in a nutshell. I`m considering having the event from Sept 14-15, 2007.

YOUR THOUGHTS?

I will have all these types of events(if the 1st is a hit) either on or near military bases since it is for military service members.

I like to think even though it will probably be small in size, it`s a "BIG Conference" in my eyes. :)

Maybe I should call it a seminar, meetup or something that doesn`t give it such a "big" feel.  I dont want to disappoint participants. 

Hi Sammy,

Our Company may be interested in participating.  We do what we can to support the military. That would be great if SUN was there.  Keep us posted

Janie