QUESTION: Thoughts about Local Startup Events?

HollyHansen·Jan 03, 2020

QUESTION:. What do you love/ hate about events for startups in the Bay Area? And what types of events do you wish were happening? Do you prefer morning, midday or evening events? I recently joined the Microsoft for Startups Program team - and want to hear from you so I can actually put on events that matter and give value.

teresaman·Jan 04, 2020

I don't think I've ever attended any events in the morning or mid-day during the week. Those wouldn't work with my schedule. Evenings work best for me. That said, I personally wouldn't mind weekend mornings (particularly if it's a more networking oriented event!)As for events themselves, I love ones that provide recordings (if it's an informational one) post event. I also wish more events are more inclusive in the way it's being advertised when it comes to beverage options (ie. for those that focus on an alcoholic component aka "wine and x").

HollyHansen·Jan 06, 2020

I'd love to hear a bit more about what you mentioned about inclusive advertisement

teresaman·Jan 06, 2020

A lot of events I've seen, or even groups (such as https://ladieswinedesign.com/ which is an amazing group) have alcohol in its title, and while non-alcoholic beverages are always offered as alternatives, I think the labelling itself can be more inclusive and not lean on a drinking culture.

lyndall·Jan 06, 2020

I agree with weekend mornings being possible (especially if there is food!). I would also prefer for something to be specifically informational or specifically for meeting people.

HollyHansen·Jan 06, 2020

What types of topics are you interested in?

Rebecca·Jan 07, 2020

The most useful events are those which are structured to help strangers connect with one another. I love breakfasts and small events where you can go around the table, introduce yourself, and hear what everyone has to say versus 'all comers' events where its just open networking. Granted, this does create more work for the sponsor but it is a whole lot more useful and memorable.

CarlaS·Jan 14, 2020

I definitely like time for "open networking" where you can talk to whoever you like as it makes for quick and easy connections. Some type of structure in the event though is nice so you keep switching and don't get "stuck" talking to the same person so long that you miss other important connections. Also, I live in Oakland and get annoyed with the high percentage of events that are in SF and the Peninsula, and extremely low percentage in the East Bay (and Marin).

JoannaT·Feb 27, 2020

A lunch and learn would be helpful.