Even in a remote-first business, there’s no substitute for face-to-face connections. We did the math! On average, every event we attend leads to at least one income-generating opportunity — whether it’s a signed deal or key intel on purchasers and the certifications they’re looking for.
And the payoff isn’t just financial. These events also deliver insider knowledge, real-time feedback, and genuine community engagement. All from simply being in the room.
Why In-Person Still Matters in a Remote World
Putting a face to a name — whether it’s someone we’ve seen in an email chain, spotted in a newsletter, or talked to on the phone – instantly forges a bond. Most people are flattered when we seek them out, and often all it takes is a simple “hi” to spark a whole conversation.
It’s easy, it’s human, and it works. ✅
Leads aren’t the half of it! We’ve come away from events with the best tips from purchasers, coordinators, and directors — the kind of inside knowledge you’ll never find on a website. Little rules, hidden requirements, and subtle preferences that agencies rarely publish. Those details have helped us refine our profiles, add the right codes, and show up in more searches than ever before.
We’ve also learned that talking to other businesses and organizations — even those with competing interests — is just as valuable. They’re not enemies, they’re colleagues. Building trust and friendship across the industry has opened doors, created referral opportunities, and given us allies we can call when we need a partner or when a project isn’t the right fit.
Four Types of Events Worth Attending
Not all events are created equal. In any given month, there are dozens happening across Pennsylvania — and knowing which ones to prioritize is half the battle. Here are four categories we’ve found especially useful:
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Chambers of Commerce 🏢
Every community with a business corridor usually has a Chamber of Commerce. These groups host mixers, meetings, and workshops that can be a quick way to “take the pulse” of an area.
They’re often crowded and sometimes overwhelming — everyone’s passing cards and pitching themselves — but you’ll get a sense of who’s active and how the local business climate feels. Pro tip: wealthier areas can mean bigger fees and more established players; by contrast, smaller or less advantaged areas can be more welcoming and grateful for new energy.
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Small Business Associations 🏪
Government-sponsored outreach events are designed to connect small businesses with municipal opportunities. Expect speakers, panels, and networking with purchasers and coordinators whose job is to help businesses like yours succeed.
These are prime opportunities to learn about future jobs, get insider tips, and connect with decision-makers who can change how you see your business. If you spot one on the calendar, make time to attend if you can.
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State Outreach Events (like PA’s Department of General Services) 🏛️
Pennsylvania’s DGS — and similar agencies in other states — hold regular outreach days where department heads (Transportation, Education, Parks, Forestry, and more) meet with small vendors.
These are usually full-day events with keynotes, breakout sessions, and networking over lunch. If your certifications are in place, you can sometimes make sales right on the spot. If not, you’ll find people eager to help you get set up correctly.
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Community Resource Fairs 🫶
Don’t overlook local resource fairs. Tabling at a seasonal event can be a low-cost way to meet neighbors, introduce your services, and build goodwill. Community organizers are natural connectors, and getting on their radar pays off down the road.
Plus, it’s great practice for your elevator pitch in a friendly, low-stakes environment.
Tips to Make Events Work for You
We’ve learned a few things along the way:
- ✂️ Say yes to less. Don’t try to attend everything. Choose events hosted by the organizations or agencies you’d actually like to work with.
- 🔍 Do your homework. A quick scan of attendee lists, speaker bios, or LinkedIn beforehand helps you target conversations.
- 📩 Follow up fast. Send a short “great to meet you” email the next day. It’s a simple habit that turns handshakes into real opportunities.
- 🤝 Value your peers. Competitors can become collaborators. Approach them as colleagues, not rivals.
- 📸 Extra credit. Take photos and share to social media. Tag the Chamber, organizers, or other businesses you met — they’ll often reshare, which boosts your visibility and reinforces those new connections.
Local Resources to Get You Started
- Temple Small Business Development Center (SBDC) — free trainings, events, and advising.
- Widener University SBDC — Chester-based, but with regional reach. Many programs and materials offered en español.
- PA Department of General Services: Small Diverse Business Program — events, certifications, and outreach calendars.
- Greater Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce — regional events and networking opportunities.
- Your local Chamber of Commerce — most neighborhoods or boroughs have their own. Also see “Community Development Corporations”.
Worth Remembering
Next time you see an invite for a local mixer, outreach fair, or state procurement day — block off the time and go. At best, you’ll land your next client. At worst, you’ll still walk away with insights, contacts, and the kind of real-world perspective you’ll never get behind a screen.
For us, in-person events have been more than worth it, but don’t just take our word for it. Set a goal to hit at least one Chamber mixer, one small-business outreach event, and one community fair before the year ends. See for yourself the real results of simply showing up. 🚀
👋 Thanks for stopping by—glad you found us. This blog is powered by East Falls Media, where we help small businesses, nonprofits, and local governments communicate with clarity and purpose.
