by Francine Carb, President

When you think about the most popular or effective marketing strategy for 2016, your mind immediately turns to the digital landscape. While hugely important in delivering your company’s message, nothing tops the list as positively affecting sales more than in-person attendance at trade shows and conferences. Compared to the annual Las Vegas junket of days past, these are primarily regional and niche conferences where colleagues discuss issues, experts speak about trends, and thought leaders chart the future of a particular business segment in which they are experts.

Why? Pressing the flesh and open dialog forums are the most effective way to meet like-minded individuals who are expanding their base of knowledge as a predecessor (and requirement) to making an informed decision. If this sounds logical, that’s because it is. When a major institution, company or organization is ready to take on a major initiative, they investigate, discuss, and then make a sound decision. And the most efficient way to do so is to ask and speak with those in the know.

Which Conferences Are Trending?

There are a number of top-notch events on the calendar over the next few months. Take a look at where some of our clients are spending their time, dollars, and brainpower.

Phorum Philly—April 14, 2016

Now in it’s 5th year, Phorum keeps attracting the créme de la créme of technology firms primarily spanning NY to DC, and this year’s keynote speaker will not disappoint. None other than Paul DePodesta, a focal point of best-selling book and Oscar-nominated film, “Moneyball: The Art of Winning an Unfair Game”, will be speaking on a data driven approach to winning – basically big data and predictive analytics in professional sports – what could be more fascinating! Furthermore, Phorum is stepping up the cool factor by holding this year’s conference at the new hot spot, the Fillmore Philadelphia. Look to the Demo Pit and Expo areas to see truly innovative companies showing their stuff.

Angel Venture Fair—April 26, 2016

The Angel Venture Fair brings together the largest gathering of Angel Investors and Entrepreneurs in the Mid-Atlantic region. This will event will be held at the Union League in Philadelphia.

INTERPHEX—April 26-28, 2016

The premier pharma, biotech, and medical device conference now in it’s 37th year, is not just the place to see the latest in technology and scientific innovations. It’s also where industry panelists come together to debate the latest trends, like facilities of the future that are modern, sterile, and compliant, but also flexible enough to accommodate small dose manufacturing and other innovations. Other topics include: cell therapy commercialization, plant retrofits, and 3D system innovations. Just hop on the Amtrak and take a cab to the Javitz Center in NYC.

PACT Enterprise Awards—May 12, 2016

The 23rd annual Enterprise Awards are a celebration of our region’s technology and life sciences companies, leaders, and entrepreneurs. This event will be held at the PA Convention Center in Philadelphia.

DVAPPA—Throughout the year

For those of you involved with or selling to Higher Ed, no other organization holds more clout than APPA. Furthermore they have a regional chapter right here, the Delaware Valley APPA, or DVAPPA. With events throughout the year and usually taking place at a local university, there are a variety of topic choices. Just be aware that they only accept a certain number of service providers, so you cannot just show up for a meeting. It really is an exclusive organization for those in Higher Ed; hence, it’s beauty and value!

SMPS Philadelphia—Throughout the year

This organization holds events and education opportunities for architectural, engineering and construction marketing professionals.