In an industry awash in conferences, picking the most relevant one for your business is important. With WEFTEC around the corner, it can start to feel like the entire water industry’s focus shifts to New Orleans. WEFTEC is a huge event that provides an opportunity to see many people under one roof. However, if a large crowd is not a fit for you, there are smaller events with more specific focuses that provide significant opportunities.
Attending the annual expo of a state chapter of the American Water Works Assn. (AWWA) can often be a great way to grow your network and attend the sessions you need to receive renewal credits toward your license. WATERCON is the Midwest’s largest total water conference and expo, and is presented by the Illinois Section of AWWA annually during the third full week of March. While a state chapter puts on the event, it is by no means small. More than 100 exhibitors highlight their expertise, with booth space selling out the last three years. WATERCON enables you to build your business in a manageable environment at an affordable price.
The Water Expo is another example. The 2016 edition of the show took place in Miami the last week of August. The show bills itself as an effective commercial hub between North American manufacturers and distributors with buyers, professionals and potential sales reps coming from more than 40 countries throughout Central and South America. It lives up to its billing – if you are looking for distribution in Latin America, there are potential buyers and partners at the show looking for you. I would suggest that you bring with you a Spanish-speaking employee or take advantage of the services of one of the onsite translators.
InvestH2O, an event sponsored by Texas water cluster AccelerateH2O, is a unique driver of investments in the water space. In response to the Grand Challenges identified by AccelerateH2O, InvestH2O seeks to encourage investment that will lead to commercializing relevant technologies. Hundreds attended this past June, including representatives from top companies such as CH2M, GE, Hitachi and NRG, as well as many from the venture capital and private equity space. If you are looking to fund or be funded for your solutions in Texas, this is the place to be.
Picking the right event for your business is important. The good news is that with so many to choose from, you can count on finding a great fit. Whether at a large national show or at something more regionally or subject matter-focused, your prospects are out there looking for you. As always, happy hunting.
