Networking Events
Since the introduction of the NDIS, the disability industry has evolved at a rapid rate and the changing
environment has presented many challenges including a disconnect between service providers. The events
provide a positive environment for those working in the NDIS space to connect with others and broaden their
industry knowledge.
Networking events are delivered in different formats with the most popular format being speed dating, where events are timed and structured, and everyone gets to meet everyone. The speed dating format has proven to be more effective for service providers in terms of promotional outcomes than the traditional expo style format.
Service providers (disability and mainstream) have the valuable opportunity to host a table enabling them to promote their services to a captive audience such as Support Coordinators, Local Area Coordinators, Teachers or similar who have direct links to NDIS participants and are looking for options to offer greater choice and control to their customers.
These events have had a successful history in the Hunter and Central Coast regions, and due to popular demand are being rolled out nationally.
There are three different ways to be involved in a networking event:
1. Event Sponsor
As an event sponsor, your organisation will get full exposure to all those involved with the event. Your sponsorship includes:- Registration as a Table Host (see below), and you select your table location.
- Signage positioning at the registration desk.
- Signage displayed on big screen (where venue allows).
- Logo positioned on promotional flyer distributed to database of organisations.
- Logo displayed on One Community website one week prior to the event, and the during the week of the event.
- Good news story for your organisation on the One Facebook page
- Maximum of 3 sponsors per Event
2. Table Host
Table hosts are organisations looking to raise their profile and generate new business through connecting with new customers. Table hosts are allocated their own table and chairs, and set up their own display which may include signage, service information and promotional giveaways. The speed dating concept ensures every event attendee will circulate past their table so they have a captive audience and an opportunity to deliver a sales pitch to each and every person. You may wish to market your whole organisation or specific areas of your business that have vacancies. Places for table hosts sell out fast as organisations see the opportunity as a fast and efficient way of reaching potential customers.There is a fee of $150 (plus GST) for hosting a table.
3. Event Attendee
Event attendees are those guests who attend with the purpose to network with others and broaden their knowledge on the local services available. These might be Support Coordinators, Local Area Coordinators, Linkers or Teachers. These guests circulate around each of the host tables gathering information from each service provider and asking any specific questions they may have for their customers. This is also a good opportunity for business development staff to come along to research what others are offering and identify any potential market gaps for potential business development strategies.There is no fee attached for Event Attendees, however registration is necessary.