Guest speakers provide a much needed context for open conversations, and, aided by their working knowledge, enrich dialogue with fresh perspectives and summaries of the latest innovations. Rich in insight, with conclusions reached from deep reflection, guests (and participants) offer information not ordinarily known or discussed.

An entrepreneurial culture anchored by trusted social networks enables entrepreneurs to spot new opportunities quickly and to act on them quickly. 

Open conversations build transparency and trust. Transparency, by informing everyone present and enabling  anyone with initiative to participate. Trust, by observing a standard of civility that remains intact, yet flexible over time through appreciative commentary or constructive criticism. 

In a networked economy, people move in the direction of their conversations. Which questions we consider will determine the direction of our conversations and our attentions. Where our attentions are placed will determine what is most important to us.

In terms of regional economic development, this may translate into millions of dollars of funding; in terms of a small to medium business, it will determine where a team will look for it's next opportunity and  a company's success or failure.

Keeping entrepreneurs and business leaders informed on a broad level about focused discoveries builds one more link toward the realization of new 21st Century innovation opportunities.