10 Reasons Why You Should Be Involved in FOSS4G 

1. Increased scope of knowledge

   The world is going digital and the applications of geospatial technology are fast becoming part of our professional and personal lives. Even if your company is not directly involved in the geospatial industry, learning about and knowing the applications of the right tech can help you become more versatile, sustainable, and most importantly, profitable. Attending FOSS4G conference is the best way to get a peek at the latest innovations in development for every market sector, and to get an idea of which technologies you might want to implement in your business.

2. Brand exposure

   By identifying with FOSS4G, you will have the opportunity to expose your brand to over 1000 attendees at the conference. By utilizing either of the available options like, speaking, hosting a workshop/seminar, sponsoring an event or even promoting the conference on social media, you will have the first opportunity to push your brand to an international audience before, during and after the event.

3. Build new relationships

   Relationships are the key to any smart business development strategy. When you attend the FOSS4G conference, be prepared to connect with just about anyone! From government representatives and researchers to entrepreneurs and investors, this conference brings together people from both in and out of the geospatial community. With some sessions designed to be inclusive and casual, you have the privilege to connect with people with similar interests, questions and goals as you. Grow your network through meeting the right people at FOSS4G.

4. Skill development

   FOSS4G conference features keynotes, presentations and workshops from industry experts and influencers. This event aims to teach attendees new skills, best practices, and actionable ways to achieve long-term success. If your employees are attentive and eager to learn, they will leave with new tools and ideas to incorporate into in their day-to-day workflow. By attending the conference, you can utilize this team building opportunity and have employees return and share what they learned with your entire organization.

5. Brand alignment

   Your employees represent your brand at an industry event, even if they are only there as attendees. Some of the industry’s biggest companies support FOSS4G. By having your company represented at the FOSS4G conference, you will be aligning your brand with these heavy hitters and establishing yourself as a recognizable and important player in your industry.

6. Community

   FOSS4G was built on its strong community and has continued to grow over the last decade. It is the main meeting place and educational outreach opportunity for OSGeo members, supporters and newcomers. By attending, you become a member of the community and we’ll humbly welcome you.

7. Connect with people on a global scale

   FOSS4G is attended by people from the seven continents of the world. When compared to email requests, face to face interactions are more likely to yield a higher number of positive results. By getting involved in the conference, you will be directly connecting your company to an international audience and interacting with start-ups, innovators and investors on a global scale. Thereby exposing your company to people in other cultures and gaining new perspectives.

8. Learn about the competition

   A majority of FOSS4G attendees will be involved in the geospatial industry but they still rely on non-geospatial services to run their business. For this reason, your industry competitors will be attending as well. By attending the conference, you can find out who else is in the market. Meet your competitors, learn about their services and carry out research on how you can give your company an edge.

9. Discover talent

   At one point or another, your company will need geospatial technology to get ahead of the competition. FOSS4G conference is the best opportunity to connect with innovators who can help you take your business to the next level.  No matter what your company’s product is, there will be a professional with shared values interested and available to work with you – all you need to do is find them.

10. Content Creation

    Aside gaining skills, experience and participating in events which will motivate your employees to the benefit of the company, there is also the prospect of content creation. By getting involved in FOSS4G your employees can be active participants and create content to promote your brand either through strategic blog posts, live coverage or videos.