Just a few short months ago, I enthusiastically accepted an invitation to join the Navigator committee with the Panama City Beach Chamber of Commerce. In our very first meeting I was greeted with excitement about past accomplishments, but also a desire for something new and a fresh direction for the future. The previous two years of the Navigator committee focused on Lunch and Learn workshops, and while considered a success, the committee decided something new was needed to keep us on our toes.
Our first order of business? We changed the name. The Navigator Committee is now IdeaWorks and our new venue for learning is named after what we want to accomplish – to walk away with new ideas from others’ stories of success. And the name of that venue? IdeaCamp.
What is IdeaCamp?
When we were brainstorming, we all seemed to agree of the the principle and format of BarCamps. BarCamps are (from Wiki) “an international network of user-generated conferences. . . They are open, participatory workshop-events, the content of which is provided by participants.”
The object is to get together and have a loose structure of volunteer speakers that share 10 to 15 minutes of success-driven stories and experiences that could provide inspiration for those listening to help them in whatever way is relevant.
The IdeaWorks IdeaCamps will be held monthly, evening time, in Panama City Beach and will feature professionals from all walks of life sharing what they do best and why it works. And the attendees will walk away with ideas to help them grow their business, enhance their career, do more business and/or be more effective employees.
3 reasons you should come.
1 – Social and networking time
It’s in the evening, after work, food and beverages will be served and all you’re friends will be there for you to socialize and network with.
2 – The Big idea you’ve been waiting for
If you’re looking for new ideas for your business, you need to come. Attendees will be hearing from me, Cebo, Karen Smith and several others that have amazing success stories to share. The best way to get new ideas to grow your business is to hear what others are doing and share some experiences of your own. Plus, hearing the thought process of others always sparks ideas of my own. If you think you know everything, I can assure you, you don’t. There is always something to learn, and someone else is always doing something you can learn from!
3 – An opportunity for you to share what you know
Think of this like an open mic night. You don’t have to preregister or signup, if you want to speak, just come ready and sign up when you walk in the door. There will be a sign up board for a 15 minute slot and you can share whatever you want. Although self promotion is discouraged, if you’ve had a success story that you think will help others or some inspirational guidance, bring it!
When, where and does it cost?
The first IdeaCamp will be held at Kingfish Restaurant at the Bay Point Wyndham (map link) on January 31st, 2013 from 5 to 7 pm. Southwest Airlines is the presenting sponsor.
IdeaCamp is free for Chamber members, but there is a small cost for non-members of $20 (to help cover costs), which can be paid at the door.
PCBDaily 
